In an exhilarating first leg of the Champions League semi-final Tuesday, Bayern Munich drew 2-2 with Real Madrid. The match, left undecided for future resolution, witnessed Vinicius Jr of Real Madrid bagging both goals, even securing the last-minute penalty which drew the game.
Vinicius Jr, marking his third consecutive season of scoring in semi-finals, opened the scorecard in favour of Real Madrid 24 minutes into the game. However, Bayern retaliated with two rapid goals in the early period of the second half, only to be countered by a penalty stroke from Vinicius.
In this eighth encounter in the seminal stages of this tournament, Bayern showcased a notable performance with half a dozen attempts on goal within the first 15 minutes. Both Leroy Sane and Harry Kane had promising attempts. The home team was taken aback when an away ball from Kroos to Vinicius Jr saw Bayern’s defence split open — a spectacle that earned Real their first goal.
Almost repeating his prowess, Kroos had another attempt barely stopped by Manuel Neuer in his 51st minute. On the contrary, it was Sane’s solo effort that secured an equalizer for Bayern two minutes later. Their second goal was secured when Kane efficiently maneuvered a penalty kick which was awarded due to a foul by Lucas Vazquez on Jamal Musiala.
Vinicius Jr settled the score again in the 83rd minute, giving Real Madrid a chance for their 15th European Cup. This exciting encounter has paved the way for an equally thrilling second leg in Madrid scheduled next week.
The victorious team from this tie would face either Borussia Dortmund or Paris St Germain, squaring off in the other semi-final on Wednesday.