Bayern vs. Real Madrid: 1974 European Cup Final

Lore & Background

Due to the tie being closely contested, Madrid supporters sometimes referred to Bayern as the 'Bestia negra' ('Black Beast'). Despite facing each other the most in the competition's history, with several controversial incidents occurring due to the great importance of most of their meetings, the clubs have never met in the final of a Champions League or European Cup.

In Their Own Story

The humid Brussels air carried the weight of history as the teams walked out onto the Heysel pitch. The roar of the crowd was a mix of anticipation and disbelief; no one expected a rout of this magnitude. As Gerd Müller slotted his first goal past the Real Madrid defense, the stadium seemed to hold its breath before erupting. By the time the final whistle blew, the Bavarian side had not just won a trophy; they had etched their names into the very fabric of football folklore.

Reader's Guide

Both clubs are most successful in their respective countries, Real Madrid winning 71 domestic trophies and Bayern Munich winning 69 domestic trophies. Bayern Munich have won a total of 14 international trophies, including 6 European Cup/UEFA Champions League, while Real Madrid have 32 international trophies, including a record 15 European Cup/UEFA Champions League titles. Although they have never met in a final, Real Madrid versus Bayern is the match that has historically been played most often in the Champions League/European Cup with 30 matches (thirteen wins for Madrid, thirteen wins for Bayern, with four draws). More importantly, they have faced each other in fourteen knockout rounds, including eight semi-finals, more than any other pair.

Did You Know?

• The clubs have never met in a final of a Champions League or European Cup.
• Real Madrid versus Bayern is the most played match in Champions League/European Cup history with 30 matches.
• The fastest goal in the rivalry was scored by Roy Makaay in 10.12 seconds on 7 March 2007.