by Oliver Trust
BERLIN, April 5 (Xinhua) -- Footballers' celebration gestures often remain a mystery. The same is true of one of Bayern Munich's young players, Lennart Karl, after he scored the winning goal in extra time in a 3-2 victory over Freiburg.
"It was on my mind for a while to take off my shirt," the 18-year-old said ahead of Bayern's quarterfinal tie against Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid in the Champions League. Although Karl received the mandatory yellow card, the gesture appeared to reflect both joy and confidence.
Coming from two goals down to win reflected Bayern's current momentum despite having to replace superstar Harry Kane because of minor ankle problems.
While Karl and 20-year-old Tom Bischof got on the scoresheet, "we said in the locker room, we can beat everyone," the striker said.
Bayern continues to draw strength from its mentality, and optimism remains over Kane's return for Tuesday's match, which is attracting global attention.
"I am sure, if necessary, he is going to play in a wheelchair," midfielder Joshua Kimmich said, while coach Vincent Kompany said he remains positive about the England captain's participation in Madrid.
Despite lingering doubts, Bayern appears capable of handling the challenges ahead. Kompany described the win without Kane as a boost in motivation.
While Karl may start on the bench Tuesday, his special connection to Real has again come into focus.
A few weeks ago, he spoke about Real as his dream club and drew criticism from Bayern supporters. "One day, I would like to play for Real," he said, as an unusual story from his early years also emerged.
In 2018, at the age of 10, Karl made it through preliminary talent-identification camps in Germany and was invited to Madrid for the final rounds.
Despite impressing in Spain, the family rejected offers for him to join Real, and the young player remained with a Frankfurt youth team before joining Bayern four years later.
His father Steffen described the decision as "a lucky coincidence," while Karl signed a long-term contract with Bayern until 2029 on his 18th birthday, Feb. 22.
Although Bayern recognizes that Real Madrid represents a different level, confidence remains high. "No matter if it's the league or the Champions League, if we give it our all, we can beat every opponent," the young striker said after Bayern scored its 100th league goal of the season.
"I don't feel like naming a favorite," coach Kompany said. "It's just that anticipation is in all of us, what great games lie ahead of us," the 39-year-old said.
With or without Kane, the reigning German champions feel ready for the challenge. Kompany, meanwhile, reminded everyone: "Don't let's forget, there is a second leg."
In the second leg April 15 at the Munich arena, Karl may get another chance to win over Bayern's fans and underline his commitment to the club. ■
