FC Bayern won 2-1 at Real Madrid on Tuesday. The team performance was top class, but the celebrated hero was goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. His numbers for the game were impressive and radiate absolute world class
Evenings like this one at the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu on Tuesday are special, even for FC Bayern, who have already played many games at top European level. But this clash was set to be very special, especially as Bayern’s recent record against Real was anything but good
The victory was a sign to their European rivals, but also a confirmation to themselves that they were on the right path. The fact that Manuel Neuer, at 40 years of age, was also the guarantor of the victory and made outstanding saves, topped off the evening
At Real Madrid: Neuer’s announcement at 40
9
– Manuel Neuer is the first goalkeeper since detailed data collection to record 9 saves against Real Madrid in a knockout-match at the Bernabeu. Wall. pic.twitter.com/cdCoi1Jx84
– OptaFranz (@OptaFranz) April 8, 2026
The goalkeeper recently celebrated his milestone birthday, and amid the debate about his consistency, he put in a fantastic performance, almost sensationally preventing Kylian Mbappé’s 2-1 goal. Real despaired of him, the press were impressed and the figures speak for themselves
Opta highlighted the fact that Neuer was the first goalkeeper since detailed data was collected to save nine Real Madrid shots in a UEFA Champions League knockout match at the Santiago Bernabéu
Neuer was named player of the match by Sofascore and UEFA did the same, presenting Neuer with the award after the game. The other figures also read very well: the goalkeeper saved five shots from inside the penalty area. At least 24 of the 37 balls he played were saved. He also prevented more than one expected goal. It was a masterstroke that provides arguments in favour of the goalkeeper with regard to the discussion about his contract extension.
