Bayer Leverkusen vs Real Madrid: A Comprehensive Recap of the 1997-1998 Champions League Quarterfinal

Match Summary: Bayer Leverkusen 0-3 Real Madrid

September 1997, Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, Madrid, Spain

The first leg of the 1997-1998 UEFA Champions League quarterfinal between Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid on September 16th, 1997, was a one-sided affair. The Spanish giants dominated from start to finish, securing a comfortable 3-0 victory at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.

Real Madrid took the lead in the 14th minute through a Predrag Mijatovic goal. The Serbian forward found himself in space inside the Bayer Leverkusen penalty area and calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner.

The hosts doubled their advantage just before half-time when Raul Gonzalez scored from close range. The young Spanish striker was on hand to tap in a cross from Roberto Carlos.

Real Madrid continued to control the game in the second half and put the result beyond doubt in the 64th minute. Clarence Seedorf's powerful shot from outside the penalty area found the top corner of the Bayer Leverkusen goal.

The 3-0 victory gave Real Madrid a significant advantage ahead of the second leg in Germany. The Spanish side would eventually go on to win the Champions League that season, defeating Juventus 1-0 in the final.

Head-to-Head: Bayer Leverkusen vs Real Madrid

Including the 1997-1998 Champions League quarterfinal, Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid have met a total of 11 times in competitive matches.

Real Madrid has a clear advantage in the head-to-head record, winning 7 games to Bayer Leverkusen's 2. The remaining 2 matches ended in draws.

In the Champions League, Real Madrid has never lost to Bayer Leverkusen, winning 4 of the 5 matches between the two sides.