Vinicius Junior’s clinical finishing proved decisive as Real Madrid fought back to secure a 2-2 draw against Bayern Munich in a thrilling Champions League semi-final first leg. Bayern’s early dominance faded as the Brazilian twice capitalized on defensive errors, including a moment of brilliance from Toni Kroos, to keep the tie delicately balanced.
The hosts began with relentless pressure, with Harry Kane and Leroy Sane causing constant problems for the Real Madrid backline. Bayern controlled possession but found it difficult to break down a resolute Real defence. However, it was Vinicius who opened the scoring against the run of play, latching onto a perfectly weighted through ball from Toni Kroos and coolly slotting past Manuel Neuer.
Bayern responded with vigour, referee Daniele Orsato awarding them a penalty after Lucas Vazquez’s clumsy foul on Jamal Musiala. Sane’s powerful strike restored parity, and Kane’s cheeky spot-kick gave the hosts the lead before halftime. Despite creating further chances, Bayern couldn’t extend their advantage.
A rash challenge from Kim Min-jae on Rodrygo proved costly, with Orsato pointing to the spot once again. Vinicius, with nerves of steel, buried the penalty, bringing Real Madrid level. Both sides sought a winner, but the match ended all square, setting up a tantalizing second leg at the Bernabeu.
Bayern manager Thomas Tuchel acknowledged their strong start but lamented their lapse in focus: “We started very well in the first 10, 15 minutes and should have taken the lead. But then we strayed off our plan, played slower and became more insecure. We conceded a goal, which didn’t make it easier for us… Real did what they do to all their opponents. They scored two goals from two chances. It feels weird, but the situation is very clear now. We need to win to make it to Wembley. It’s still a 50-50 situation.”
Harry Kane, despite the draw, maintained a positive outlook: “The initial feeling is disappointment. We had the momentum on our side, and once we were 2-1 up, we had two or three good chances. That third goal would have been really important… Now, the winner at the Bernabeu takes it all. These are the games you want to be involved in. We can take a lot of positives from tonight. We caused Real a lot of problems, especially in the second half. We weren’t efficient enough. We’re ready for an amazing game next week. I’m looking forward to it.”
Carlo Ancelotti praised his team’s resilience while acknowledging Bayern’s strength: “The commitment was fantastic, especially at the end to try to equalise. Bayern showed their best, and we only did so in parts of the match… It’s a good result and gives us confidence for the second leg. The tie is open because Bayern have players with great qualities.”
The second leg promises to be a spectacle, with Real Madrid holding strong momentum as they approach a domestic title win in LaLiga. Bayern, their Bundesliga hopes extinguished, will be desperate for a vital away win. Vinicius’s brilliance, Kroos’s vision, and Real’s confidence on their home turf could prove the difference in this clash of European titans.