Real Madrid vs. Bayern Munich: Match Review
In a night of high-octane drama at the Santiago Bernabéu, Real Madrid booked their place in the UEFA Champions League final by defeating Bayern Munich 2–1. With a 4–3 aggregate win, Los Blancos once again proved their European pedigree, though the evening was marred by a significant controversy that left Bayern Munich players and fans fuming.
The Controversy
In the dying moments of the match, Bayern Munich believed they had levelled the score at 2–2 when Matthijs de Ligt found the back of the net. However, the assistant referee flagged Noussair Mazraoui for offside in the buildup, and referee Szymon Marciniak immediately blew his whistle before the ball crossed the line. Despite Bayern’s desperate protests and a desire for a VAR review, the disallowed goal stood due to the play being deemed dead once the whistle was blown.
Replays suggested that Mazraoui’s position was questionable at best, and perhaps even onside. This decision became the talking point of the night, with Bayern Munich’s manager Thomas Tuchel visibly livid, and de Ligt describing the referee’s call as a “disgrace”. While the linesman apologised post-match for his error, it did little to ease the bitter taste for the Bavarians as Real Madrid celebrated their progression to the final.
Match Highlights and Key Moments
- Bayern Munich’s Early Dominance: The visitors started brightly, controlling possession and winning key duels. Harry Kane’s early free kick win in the defensive half set the tone for their aggressive start.
- Real Madrid’s Resilience: Despite Bayern’s dominance, Real Madrid showed their characteristic resilience. Joselu turned hero in the final minutes, scoring two dramatic late goals (88' and 90+1') to overturn Bayern’s lead and send the home fans into raptures.
- Joselu’s Late Heroics: Joselu’s brace ensured that Real Madrid would have a shot at a 15th European title, underlining Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical acumen and the depth of Real Madrid’s squad.
Match Statistics
- Possession: Real Madrid dominated possession with 57.2% compared to Bayern Munich’s 42.8%.
- Shots on Target: Bayern Munich’s attacking intent was evident with their significant number of shots on target, despite their elimination.
- Defensive Actions: Joshua Kimmich played a crucial role in Bayern’s defensive efforts, winning key free kicks in their half.
Key Players
- Joselu: His late double earned him man-of-the-match honours, as he single-handedly swung the tie in Real Madrid’s favour.
- Harry Kane: Despite Bayern’s exit, Kane’s intelligent movement and playmaking ability showcased why he’s a key player for the German giants.
Conclusion
While the disallowed goal controversy will be the focal point of post-match debates, Real Madrid’s resilience and Joselu’s clinical finishing should not be overshadowed. Bayern Munich, despite their best efforts, were undone by Madrid’s late surge and clinical edge in front of goal. The victory also highlighted Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical flexibility and Real Madrid’s ability to win crucial matches even when under pressure.
Real Madrid will now face Borussia Dortmund in the final, hoping to lift their 15th European crown and further cement their legacy in the competition.
References
[1]: https://www.sportingnews.com/us/champions-league/news/bayern-munich-goal-disallowed-error-offside-real-madrid-champions/c3f707628b3050fdf46fee13
[2]: https://en.as.com/soccer/why-was-bayern-munichs-late-goal-against-real-madrid-ruled-out-n/
[11]: https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/68973021
[14]: https://africa.espn.com/football/match/_/gameId/702057
[20]: https://onefootball.com/en/news/free-highlights-of-real-madrid-vs-bayern-39461911
