P.Guardiola: showdown with "Real" - a serious challenge © EuroFootball.com

Munich's "Bayern" club strategist Pep Guardiola described the upcoming match with Madrid's "Real" team as "a serious challenge".

On Friday, the draw for the UEFA Champions League semi-finals determined that the Bavarians will have to face off against the royal club for a spot in the final.

P. Guardiola says that the team led by Carlo Ancelotti is one of the best counter-attacking teams, but it is well known to the Catalan himself.

"The draw is the draw. Real Madrid is a tough opponent, but I know them well," said the 43-year-old Catalan.

"They have a great team and a great coach, so it will be a serious challenge. But we are looking forward to this match."

The first match will take place on April 23 at the "Santiago Bernabeu" stadium and it is reported that injured Real leader Cristiano Ronaldo will not participate, but P. Guardiola says the team is preparing to contain the world's best footballer.

"I think he will play against us. We are preparing for the match, thinking that Ronaldo will step onto the field."

"We watched the Real match with Borussia and will watch the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona. We will analyze everything," the strategist assured.

On Saturday, the Bayern team will face Borussia in the Bundesliga championship. P. Guardiola warned his players not to relax.

"For us, this will be like a test. If we play even a little relaxed, we have no chance."

"Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid are the best counter-attacking teams in Europe," said P. Guardiola.