Any small detail could be the thing that makes the difference in a Champions League semi-final. And the fatigue factor, at this stage in the season, falls into the decisive category. Real Madrid and Bayern are heading into the first leg of the semi-finals from very different places. Real, having had six days of preparation, and Bayern, with half that, having played on Saturday.

Real Madrid will have the benefit of 165 hours without playing, since the cup final in Valencia, to think about facing Guardiola's Bayern. Carlo Ancelotti took the opportunity to give the squad two days off to recharge the batteries.