semifinal clash in Champions League: can FC Bayern and Borussia Dortmund clinch victory in the return leg?
Bayern Munich and Real Madrid Clash in Exciting Champions League Semi-Final
The 2024 UEFA Champions League semi-finals saw a thrilling encounter between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid, with the Spanish giants emerging victorious in a dramatic second leg.
The first leg of the semi-final was played at Borussia Dortmund's Signal Iduna Park, where Dortmund celebrated a 1:0 win over Paris Saint-Germain in a sold-out stadium [1]. However, in the second leg, Bayern Munich faced Real Madrid, who were without Dani Carvajal due to suspension [2].
The match began with Real Madrid taking the lead in the 24th minute through a fine pass from Toni Kroos, finished by Vinicius Junior [3]. But Bayern fought back with a quick double in the second half. Leroy Sané equalized in the 53rd minute with a solo effort, and Harry Kane put Bayern ahead 2:1 with a penalty four minutes later [4].
However, Bayern's lead was short-lived. Alphonso Davies scored for Bayern in the 67th minute, restoring parity [5]. But Real Madrid showed their resilience and late surge, with Joselu scoring in the 88th and 91st minutes to secure a 2:1 win for Real Madrid in the second leg, leading to a 4:3 aggregate win for the Spanish side [1].
The outcome of the match ended Bayern Munich's campaign, allowing Real Madrid to move on to the final against Borussia Dortmund [1]. This is Bayern Munich's first appearance in the Champions League semi-finals since 2020 [6].
Meanwhile, in the Bundesliga, Bayer 04 Leverkusen have won their first-ever Bundesliga title [7]. The availability of key players for Bayern Munich remains uncertain, with the status of Jamal Musiala and Leroy Sané yet to be confirmed [4].
In the first leg of the Champions League semi-finals, Borussia Dortmund will host Paris St. Germain. If Dortmund can deliver another great performance in the return leg next week, they have a good chance of reaching the 2024 Champions League final [1].
References: 1. BBC Sport 2. ESPN 3. The Guardian 4. DW 5. Sky Sports 6. Goal 7. BBC Sport
- What about the Champions League standings now that Real Madrid has defeated Bayern Munich to progress to the final?
- With their victory over Bayern Munich, Real Madrid has proven their dominance not only in the Spanish La Liga but also in various European leagues, including the Champions League.
