Real Madrid: Sergio Ramos available for UCL semifinals against Bayern Munich
Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos was in danger of picking up a suspension for the semifinals against Bayern Munich next week, but thankfully, things have worked in his favor.
Sergio Ramos missed the second-leg of the quarterfinal against Juventus last week due to an accumulation of yellow cards. While he was suspended for the match, he was still allowed to attend the game at the Bernabéu. His suspension, though, had rules – one of which stated that Ramos was not allowed inside the technical areas – which include the bench or coaches space.
Last week we had made mention that Ramos may, in fact, miss the first-leg of the semifinal as he was in breach of the rules of his suspension. After further discovery, it is apparent that Ramos will be available against Bayern Munich next week.
A close call
Ramo left his VIP box from which he watched most of the match and made his way to the tunnel. Sergio came down in an effort to encourage his team to score, ensuring they progress to the next round.
While he did come down, it was evident upon further investigation that Ramos did not step onto the pitch. The Captain was simply on the steps of the tunnel, therefore, not breaching the rules of his suspension.
Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri was seen pestering Ramos late in stoppage time clearly trying to get a reaction from the officials. Thanks to the coaching staff of Real Madrid, Ramos stayed in the tunnel – clearing him of any wrongdoing.
The officials made no mention of Ramos’ presence in the tunnel in their post-match report which of course helped Sergio’s case. In addition, no UEFA authority opened a case against him or Real Madrid.
Had Ramos been penalized for his actions, precedent suggests that he could have missed both legs of the semis.
It was evident that the center-back was missed dearly. Real Madrid’s back line was discombobulated without his presence and struggled to dismantle the Juventus attack. While Ramos is seen as a wild card at times, the leadership that he brings calms his side.
Semifinal
Real Madrid will play Bayern Munich with the first-leg kicking off next week. Madrid will travel to the Allianz Arena in Munich for the first leg and will return home for the second-leg.
- Leg 1 – April 25 (A)
- Leg 2 – May 1 (H)
Next: Real Madrid 1 – 1 Athletic Bilbao: Quick match recap
This will mark the 25th and 26th meeting between these two clubs in European competition. In the previous 24 meetings between Madrid and Bayern, Madrid has won 11, lost 11 times, and drawn twice. Los Blancos played Bayern Munich in the quarterfinals last year, winning 6-3 on aggregate.