European champions Real Madrid have taken a huge step to retaining the UEFA Champions League (UCL) title after they secured a 2-1 comeback win over German champions Bayern Munich in the 1st leg of their semifinal tie.

Joshua Kimmich gave Bayern a 28th minute lead only for Brazilian leftback Marcelo to level for the Los Merengues just before the end of the first half.

Substitute Marco Asensio thereafter pounced on a mistake by Bayern Munich defender Rafinha to give the visitors the lead at the Allianz Arena.

The home side had several opportunities to level proceedings but fluffed them as Real Madrid held on for a big win ahead of the second leg scheduled for the Estadio Santiago Bernebeu on Tuesday.