Why fans from around the world flock to see Real Madrid play in the Champions League

Yet another big game for Real Madrid. This time, at home to Manchester City, coached by Pep Guardiola, a man synonymous with Los Blancos’ arch-rivals Barcelona. Perhaps only El Clásico being played at Estadio Santiago Bernabéu could eclipse a Champions League semi-final.

Champions League nights at the Bernabéu

For those of you have visited for a run-of-the-mill home game against a team Real Madrid are expected to win without breaking sweat, you may have been struck by the supporters’ desire to be entertained rather than spur the team on. For a knockout tie in their favourite competition, that turns on its head entirely and the Bernabéu has one of the hottest atmosphere around.

AS USA took to the streets ahead of the first leg of the clash against the Citizens and were met with thousands of fans who had gathered to welcome their heroes to battle.

Why support Real Madrid from afar?

Supporters travel all across Spain, Europe and indeed the world to see Los Blancos play, including a couple of fans from Basel in Switzerland, who have made the trip to see their idols face City in person. Why Real Madrid though?

“I love Real Madrid, it’s a passion. It’s the things Real Madrid do: the comebacks, the big games. They can switch their heads off and say, ‘OK, now we conceded a goal, but now we can score two goals, no problem.’ I think not a lot of clubs in the world can do this”.

“It’s the young players, it’s all players, the communication, the chemistry, it’s the fans, it’s amazing”.

Haaland and City come to town

What about the challenge of facing Manchester City and, specifically, Erling Haaland?

“[Having Haaland] changes the game tonight, but I think if Rüdiger works well, I think Haaland has…he has chances but he has no big opportunities to score”.

Antonio, if you’re reading: no pressure.