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Madrid Stun Bayern Reach Final Real Madrid Stage Another Epic Comeback, Reach Champions League Final with 2-1 Win Over Bayern Munich
Dramatic Late Double from Joselu Seals Historic Sixth Final Appearance in Ten Years
MADRID, May 8 (Reuters) – Real Madrid cemented their reputation as Europe’s comeback kings with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Bayern Munich in the Champions League semi-final second leg on Wednesday. Substitute Joselu’s dramatic late brace rescued Los Blancos from the brink of elimination, securing a 4-3 aggregate triumph and propelling them towards a record-extending 15th Champions League title. Madrid Stun Bayern, Reach Final
This victory marks Real Madrid’s sixth appearance in the Champions League final in the last decade, a testament to their enduring European dominance. Their opponents at Wembley Stadium on June 1st will be Borussia Dortmund, setting the stage for a potentially explosive encounter.
Echoes of City Comeback:
The Santiago Bernabeu witnessed another night of European magic for Real Madrid, mirroring their spectacular comeback win over Manchester City two years ago. This time, it was Bayern Munich who took the lead, with substitute Alphonso Davies unleashing a stunning strike in the 68th minute. However, the script remained familiar to Real Madrid fans.
Joselu Emerges as Unlikely Hero:
Introduced from the bench, Joselu unexpectedly emerged as the hero for Real Madrid. A catastrophic error from Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer in the 88th minute gifted Joselu the opportunity to equalize. Two minutes later, he found himself celebrating again, albeit in a slightly unorthodox fashion, as his shinned effort from an Antonio Ruediger cross deflected into the Bayern net.
VAR Controversy Fuels Bayern Frustration:
The second goal was initially ruled out for offside, but a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) check overturned the decision, sparking outrage from the Bayern players and coaching staff. This controversial call added to the drama of the night and left Bayern feeling aggrieved.
Dominant Real Denied by Inspired Neuer:
Despite surrendering possession, Real Madrid dominated the game statistically. However, a valiant Bayern defense, buoyed by the heroics of Neuer, repeatedly thwarted their attacking efforts. Vinicius Jr. proved a constant threat down the left flank, but the inspired Bayern keeper consistently denied his attempts.
Neuer’s Fumble Gifts Equalizer:
Neuer, who appeared destined to be named Man of the Match, fumbled a shot from Vinicius Jr. on the edge of the box, inadvertently presenting Joselu with the equalizer. This monumental error shifted the momentum entirely in Real Madrid’s favor.
Bernabeu Erupts as Real Madrid Seal the Win:
The Bernabeu, transformed by its spectacular new roof, erupted in celebration following Joselu’s equalizer. Fueled by the renewed energy of the crowd, Real Madrid continued their relentless pressure, ultimately snatching a deserved winning goal.
Late Bayern Claim Disallowed:
Bayern Munich launched a desperate late fightback for an equalizer, appearing to find success when defender Matthijs de Ligt emphatically volleyed the ball home in stoppage time. However, the linesman had already raised his flag for offside in the build-up, leading to furious protests from the Bayern players and bench. The referee ultimately upheld the decision, effectively ending Bayern’s Champions League hopes.
De Ligt Blames “Disgraceful Call”:
De Ligt expressed his frustration with the disallowed goal, stating, “We all know the rules and it’s clear that, if it’s not an obvious offside, you have to let it play.
Bayern Left Reflecting on Unfulfilled Potential:
With Bayer Leverkusen ending Bayern’s 11-year Bundesliga reign last month, the six-time European Cup winners were left with only the Champions League as a potential source of silverware this season. Bayern manager Thomas Tuchel reflected on the match, stating, “We were almost through, it’s almost there and there was a very unusual mistake from our best player.
Real Madrid’s unwavering spirit and relentless pursuit of victory were once again on display in their dramatic comeback against Bayern Munich. As they prepare to face Borussia Dortmund in the final, their quest for a record-extending Champions League title continues.
