Bayern rediscover swagger for Real clash

Bayern Munich will be bristling with confidence when they meet Real Madrid in the Champions League on Wednesday, after rediscovering their best form at a crucial stage in the season.

"If we play like we have done in the last three games we can do it," striker Roy Makaay said on the eve of the first knockout round, second leg clash at the Bernabeu.

"We know it won't be easy because Real Madrid are very strong at home ... but we're confident after some good performances."

Bayern had the better of the opening leg but a horrific blunder from goalkeeper Oliver Kahn allowed Real to snatch a 1-1 draw that gives them a slim advantage going into the return.

Kahn has said he is haunted by his mistake, when he allowed a Roberto Carlos free kick to slip under his body, but Makaay and coach Ottmar Hitzfeld are tipping the keeper to be back at his best.

"He's relaxed and he's got over the error," Makaay said. "He can cope with the pressure."

Hitzfeld added: "Oliver Kahn loves a challenge. He can play at his best under difficult circumstances and he's shown that in the last two games."

Hitzfeld stressed that Bayern were still the underdogs, despite their recent improvement.

"We played well in the first leg, even if the result wasn't too good," he said. "The feeling in the squad is good. Real Madrid are the favourites because they're playing at home but we have our chances."

Makaay was celebrating his 29th birthday on Tuesday and the former Deportivo Coruna player said he was only interested in one present.

"I want to be in the draw for the quarter-finals on Friday," the Dutchman said.