Real Madrid’s remarkable run in the Champions League continued on Wednesday as they pulled off another thrilling comeback to defeat Bayern Munich 2-1 and reach the final for the second time in three seasons.
The 14-time European champion was trailing 1-0 with just minutes remaining in the second leg of the semifinal when Joselu scored to level the aggregate score. And then, in stoppage time, Joselu struck again to give Madrid a 4-3 aggregate victory.
It was a stunning turnaround for Madrid, who had been second best for much of the match. Bayern had taken the lead through Alphonso Davies in the 68th minute, and they looked set to hold on for a famous victory.
But Madrid never gave up, and they were rewarded for their persistence when Joselu scored his first goal in the 88th minute. The goal was initially ruled out for offside, but a VAR review overturned the decision.
And then, in the dying seconds of the match, Joselu scored again to send the Bernabeu into raptures. The goal was again initially ruled out for offside, but a VAR review confirmed that it was legitimate.
Madrid’s victory was a testament to their never-say-die attitude. They have now reached the Champions League final for the 18th time, extending their record as the most successful club in the competition’s history.
They will face Borussia Dortmund in the final on June 1 in London. Dortmund eliminated Paris Saint-Germain 2-0 on aggregate in the other semifinal.
It will be a fascinating final between two of Europe’s most in-form teams. Madrid will be looking to win their 15th Champions League title, while Dortmund will be aiming to win their first since 1997.
