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Real Madrid once again demonstrated their prowess as Europe’s kings of comebacks when Joselu‘s late double saved them from the brink of elimination, propelling them into the Champions League final with a thrilling 2-1 second-leg victory over Bayern Munich at the Bernabéu on Wednesday.
This 2-1 victory secured a 4-3 aggregate win for Real Madrid, marking their astonishing sixth Champions League final appearance in just 10 years. They will now face Borussia Dortmund in a bid to secure a record-extending 15th title at Wembley on June 1.
In a remarkable turn of events reminiscent of their semi-final triumph over Manchester City two years ago, Real Madrid found themselves trailing after Bayern substitute Alphonso Davies unleashed a stunning strike from a counter attack in the 68th minute.
However, Joselu emerged as the hero for Real Madrid, coming off the bench to level the score in the 88th minute following a costly error from Manuel Neuer. Just two minutes later, he struck again, putting Madrid ahead with a somewhat fortuitous goal from a cross by Antonio Rüdiger.
Initially, Joselu‘s second goal was ruled out for offside, but after a VAR review, the decision was overturned, much to the delight of the Real Madrid faithful.
“We’ve shown time and time again this season that even when things look bleak, we never give up… it’s not about who scores, but that someone always steps up… that never-say-die attitude,” remarked Jude Bellingham, who will face his former team in the final, in an interview with TNT Sports.
Davies had earlier opened the scoring in spectacular fashion, cutting inside onto his right foot and unleashing an unstoppable shot into the far corner.
As the clock ticked down, Real Madrid appeared headed for defeat until Joselu’s late heroics turned the tide in their favor. Real Madrid had dominated the game, with Vinícius Júnior particularly impressive down the left flank.
The Brazilian forward effortlessly glided past defenders and created numerous chances for himself and his teammates, only to be repeatedly denied by an inspired Neuer.
Despite Neuer’s heroics, he made a crucial error in the dying minutes, fumbling a Vinicius strike from outside the box, which allowed Joselu to pounce and equalize.
The goal ignited the Bernabéu crowd under their magnificent new roof, and just moments later, Real Madrid worked their European magic once again, securing a well-deserved victory that sent the Spanish giants into yet another final.
This thrilling victory not only showcased Real Madrid’s resilience and determination but also highlighted their ability to produce moments of magic when it matters most, making them a formidable force in European football.