Neuer "prepared" for Ronaldo spot-kick

Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer insists he had done his homework on the way Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo takes penalties.

The Germany international shot-stopper saved the Portuguese international's effort in the penalty shoot-out victory over the Spanish giants in the Champions League semi-final in midweek. He also managed to keep out Kaka's effort while Sergio Ramos blasted his attempt over the bar to send the Bavarians through to the final to face Chelsea. Neuer had been beaten from the spot by the former Manchester United ace in normal time but admitted that he had worked hard on where Ronaldo might try to slot his second effort of the night from 12 yards. "I always prepare myself for such situations," he told Bild. "Our goalkeeping coach, Toni Tapalovic, showed me on his laptop before the match how Ronaldo usually takes his penalties. "I learned that Ronaldo prefers to send the ball low to his left. In the penalty shoot-out, I was convinced that he would aim for his favourite spot."