Real Madrid left it late as always at the Santiago Bernabeu to book their spot in the final of the Uefa Champions League.
The hosts dominated the first half, with Vinicius Junior hitting the woodwork and Rodrygo denied in front of goal.
After the break though, Bayern were composed and resilient as Alphonso Davies came on to score his first Champions League goal.
At 1-0 up with five minutes to play, Thomas Tuchel substituted star man Harry Kane; a move that would play right into Carlo Ancelotti’s hands.
The intense pressure was too much for the visitors in the dying embers. Even Manuel Neuer, a key part of their strong display for 85 plus minutes, could not bear the pressure of the 80 000 plus in attendance underneath the Bernabeu roof.
The veteran German keeper slipped up to gift Joselu the equaliser from close range; and in stoppage time, the super sub would strike again.
Following a lengthy VAR check, Madrid were in front — but the drama from the officials would not end there, as Bayern too found the net late on.
Matthijs de Ligt rolled the ball past Andriy Lunin in one of the final plays of the game. However the referee had already whistled for offside, meaning that even though it looked onside on second glance, VAR would not be able to check the goal.
Questionable decisions on the pitch and on the sidelines, or sheer coolness in mentality? It matters little now, because Los Blancos — the kings of Europe — are going to Wembley to contest their 18th Champions League final.
Real Madrid will take in Borussia Dortmund at Wembley on 1 June with their sights set on a record-extending 15th European Cup.
Pictured above: Real Madrid
Image source: @realmadrid
