Xabi Alonso, who previously played for both Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, believes strikers will be decisive in the pair’s Champions League semi-final.
The former Spain international, who retired from playing football last summer, insists Cristiano Ronaldo and Robert Lewandowski are the two most influential players in the tie.
“Normally, when Madrid and Bayern face each other, it is in a big occasion,” Alonso is cited as saying by ESPN FC.
“For both clubs, this semi-final is a great chance. At this stage, you cannot afford to have a weakness. You need to be a unit, and the key players, especially the strikers, they need to make a difference.
“Whichever side's strikers have the biggest impact will get a big advantage. I think it is quite balanced at the moment.
“Madrid are going to have to suffer in some moments, and Bayern must be careful with Madrid's attacks.
“Madrid need half a chance to score a goal, and their players get forward a lot, especially Cristiano Ronaldo, who is in a state of grace.
“Arturo Vidal's injury? It is a problem for sure, but I am sure they will deal with it, Arturo is a top player.
“He delivers the best of himself in these big clashes. I am sorry for him as I know how much he loves to play these kind of games, but I am sure that Jupp Heynckes will take the best decision to deal with his injury. That cannot be an excuse.”
