UCL Semi-Final: Real Hold Bayern 2-2 In Germany

By: Gyang Dakwo

Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr scored twice, including a late penalty, to snatch a 2-2 draw at Bayern Munich in an entertaining Champions League semi-final, first leg on Tuesday.

In a pulsating tie featuring two European heavyweights that swung both ways, it is arguably advantage Real heading into next week’s return leg in Spain, with a place in the final at Wembley on the line.

Bayern had nothing to show for their early pressure and were then punished midway through the first half when Toni Kroos’ pass sliced open their defence before Vinicius Jnr. applied the finishing touch.

Vinicius’ bow to praise Kroos said everything about the assist, and for the Brazilian it was a goal at the Champions League semi-final stage for a third straight season.

That came against the run of play, as did Bayern’s leveller after half-time, with Sane sneaking a fierce effort into the near post past Andriy Lunin.

And just four minutes later, Bayern completed the turnaround, with Lucas Vazquez fouling Jamal Musiala inside the area before Kane scored from the penalty spot with a cool stutter run-up and finish.

The drama was not over though, with Kim Min-jae fouling Rodrygo and allowing Vinicius Jr. to score his second of the night.

“We always want to win but we know that this competition is like that, you can’t give away balls because teams score the chances they have,” Vinicius Jr said.

“We have to keep our heads calm, rest until next week and we know that we and the fans are going to leave everything at the Santiago Bernabeu to qualify.”
“Now it’s time for a magical night at home to win and secure our place in the final,” he added.

The two teams have faced each other for a record eighth time at this stage of the Champions League.