Real Madrid’s path to the UEFA Champions League final at Wembley was paved with heart-stopping moments, none more so than Joselu’s late heroics that secured their showdown against Borussia Dortmund.
The clash with German powerhouse Bayern Munich ended 4-3 on aggregate in favour of Los Blancos, extending their impressive unbeaten streak to 21 games across various competitions.
Entering the game on a high after clinching their 36th La Liga title with a commanding 3-0 victory over Cádiz, Real Madrid exuded confidence. Meanwhile, Thomas Tuchel’s Bayern faced a crucial test following a disappointing domestic run, compounded by a 3-1 loss to Stuttgart. Against the backdrop of a vibrant Bernabéu, Carlo Ancelotti’s men seized the initiative early on, with Manuel Neuer’s acrobatics denying Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo from breaking the deadlock.
Despite an early injury setback with Serge Gnabry, Bayern threatened with Harry Kane’s near-miss volley, expertly dealt with by Andriy Lunin. Neuer continued his heroics, denying Vinícius once more, ensuring parity at halftime. Real Madrid dominated proceedings in the second half, with Neuer thwarting Rodrygo and Vinícius’s efforts.
Bayern, against the run of play, took the lead through a thunderous strike from Davies, set up by Kane. Real Madrid’s hopes of an immediate response were dashed as Nacho’s goal was disallowed for a foul. However, Neuer’s uncharacteristic error gifted Real an equaliser, with Joselu capitalising on the loose ball, sending the Bernabéu faithful into a frenzy. In a breathtaking finale, Joselu struck again in stoppage time, initially ruled offside before VAR intervened, sealing Real Madrid’s remarkable comeback and booking their spot in the final against Borussia Dortmund.
With the stage set for a historic clash at Wembley on June 1st, Real Madrid, brimming with confidence after their dramatic semifinal triumph, eye a record-extending 15th UCL title.
