Real Madrid reached the Champions League final after a stunning semifinal victory over Bayern Munich on Wednesday. The match ended 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu, marking Real Madrid's record-extending 18th final appearance.
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti praised the players. “We played well … we had opportunities to control the game … it happened again here … it’s quite usual at the Bernabeu with our supporters we can do something unexpected," he said.
"Joselu is a fantastic striker. We had a lot of energy at the end of the game. I’m going to enjoy now until the final."
"[the players] work really hard. They are really humble. It is the best squad I have ever had in my career," he added.
Both teams employed a cautious approach in the first half, with Real Madrid enjoying more possession but failing to create any meaningful chances. Bayern Munich had the first opportunity when Serge Gnabry fired a powerful shot just wide of the right post.
Real Madrid responded in the 13th minute with a chance for Vinicius Junior, whose effort hit the bar and fell to Rodrygo, who should have done better from close range. However, Manuel Neuer was up to the task, making a crucial save.
The second half began with Real Madrid pushing hard, but Neuer continued to impress with saves from Rodrygo's free-kick and Vinicius' shot. Bayern Munich's Harry Kane found Alphonso Davies with a perfect diagonal pass, leading to a goal that put Bayern ahead.
Real Madrid thought they had equalised immediately. However, a foul on Joshua Kimmich was detected, and the goal was disallowed. Just when it seemed like Bayern would hold on, Neuer fumbled a simple ball, allowing Joselu to level the score in the 88th minute.
In a dramatic turn of events, Joselu scored again two minutes later, securing a 2-1 victory for Real Madrid despite an initial offside flag.
Real Madrid, the 14-time European champions, will now face Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League final on June 1 at Wembley. The thrilling semifinal match will be remembered for its late drama and Real Madrid's determination to reach the final.
Despite Bayern Munich's impressive performance, Real Madrid's late surge secured their spot in the final.