Real Madrid's stunning comeback against Bayern seals Champions League final spot
The semi-final was as thrilling as a final could be. Real Madrid found themselves trailing 1:0 to Bayern Munich in the second leg but managed a stunning comeback. Los Blancos clinched a 2:1 victory and secured their spot in the final, thanks largely to Joselu's heroics. The Spaniard was visibly moved to tears after the final whistle.
5:34 AM EDT, May 9, 2024
In the first leg of the Champions League semi-final, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid ended with a 2:2 draw at Bayern's home. The decisive battle for a final spot hence unfolded at Santiago Bernabeu.
Bayern seemed on course for victory when Alphonso Davies scored in the 68th minute, nudging Munich ahead. However, Real Madrid was not ready to concede, pushing back with renewed vigor.
Los Blancos found the net soon after, but Szymon Marciniak disallowed the goal following a video review for a foul. But in the 88th minute, Manuel Neuer's critical error allowed substitute striker Joselu to score, leaving no room for doubt.
Joselu turned out to be Real’s savior, delivering a brace that stamped their ticket to the Champions League final. His second goal arrived just three minutes after his first, showcasing his crucial impact off the bench.
The substitute's instrumental role in bringing the Spanish champions to the cusp of elite European glory explains his emotional outburst as the match concluded. It was not surprising to see him overwhelmed with joy, lying on the pitch; his remarkable achievement at 34 to lead his team to the final was beyond expectations. In the final showdown, Real will take on Borussia Dortmund.
