Real Madrid reaffirmed their status as Europe’s masters of comebacks in a riveting clash against Bayern Munich at the Santiago Bernabeu.
This triumph, culminating in a 4-3 aggregate win, propelled Real Madrid to an astonishing sixth Champions League final appearance in just a decade. Set to vie for a record-extending 15th title, they would face Borussia Dortmund at Wembley on June 2, AEST.
The match unfolded akin to a deja vu of Real’s spectacular semifinal comeback against Manchester City two years prior. Bayern Munich surged ahead after Alphonso Davies, a substitute, unleashed a breathtaking strike from a swift counterattack in the 68th minute.
However, Joselu, summoned from the bench, swiftly altered the narrative. Seizing upon a calamitous error from Bayern’s goalkeeper Manuel Neuer in the 88th minute, Joselu restored parity. Then, just moments later, he capitalized on a cross from Antonio Ruediger to net his second, tilting the scales in Real Madrid’s favor.
Initially disallowed for an apparent offside, Joselu’s second goal was eventually validated following a meticulous VAR review, sparking jubilation among the Real Madrid faithful.
Jude Bellingham, anticipating a showdown against his former club in the final, underscored Real’s unwavering resolve, emphasizing their never-say-die attitude in critical moments.
While Bayern’s Davies had electrified the stadium with a spectacular opener, Real Madrid maintained their relentless pressure throughout the match. Vinicius Jr’s relentless runs down the left flank tormented the Bayern defense, creating numerous scoring opportunities that were thwarted by an inspired Neuer.
Despite Neuer’s heroics, a late fumble from the Bayern goalkeeper gifted Joselu the equalizer, igniting a frenzied atmosphere at the Santiago Bernabeu. In a breathtaking finale, Real Madrid conjured their trademark magic, securing a deserved winner that catapulted the Spanish giants into yet another Champions League final.
