Bayern Munich were widely regarded as the bane of Madrid's existence whenever the two sides collided in Europe. That was what the legend stated, but the myth has been substantially weakened in recent times.
In 32 trips to Germany, Real have emerged victorious a measly five times. But three wins have come in the last three seasons as the Spaniards attempt to diminish talk of their personal Bavarian 'Bête Noire'.
Three victories, one draw and one defeat is the balance boated by Real Madrid when it comes to their last five visits to German grounds.
Such a positive streak began when Real's luck in Europe started to change. On the road to the 2014 Champions League final in Lisbon, the team managed by Carlo Ancelotti vanquished Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena. Sergio Ramos and Cristiano Ronaldo scored as Madrid beat Guardiola's side to reach their first final in 12 years.
The following season, in the last-16 round, Real Madrid travelled to Gelsenkirchen to beat Schalke 2-0, before struggling to overcome the Germans in the second leg at the Bernabeu.
A 2-0 defeat at Wolfsburg brought a torrent of criticism for Zidane, who then led his team to a comeback at home. Months later, they lifted the 'Undecima'.
The final two fixtures in Germany came last season, drawing 2-2 with Borussia Dortmund and beating Bayern Munich 2-1. In both clashes, goals were scored by Cristiano Ronaldo who is making a return to his favourite competition.