Madrid: Real Madrid took a huge step towards their first Champions League final in 12 years as Karim Benzema-s first-half goal gave them a 1-0 first-leg lead over holders Bayern Munich at the Santiago Bernabeu.


Real Madrid-s French forward Karim Benzema 2nd R celebrates with from L Real Madrid-s Portuguese defender Pepe, Real Madrid-s Argentinian midfielder Angel di Maria and Real Madrid-s defender Sergio Ramos after scoring during the UEFA Champions League semifinal first leg football match Real Madrid CF vs FC Bayern Munchen at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium in Madrid on yesterday. Pic/AFP 

The Frenchman was on hand to turn home Fabio Coentrao-s cross on 19 minutes and Madrid-s advantage could have been even greater had Cristiano Ronaldo and Angel di Maria not missed fine chances before the break.