Bayern Munich secured a dramatic victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-final second leg, winning 4-3 on the night and 6-4 on aggregate. The match featured seven goals, two red cards, and plenty of controversy.
A Frenetic Start at the Allianz Arena
The game began at a blistering pace, with Arda Guler scoring the quickest goal in this season’s Champions League after just 35 seconds. A mistake by Bayern keeper Manuel Neuer allowed Guler to strike from 25 yards, levelling the tie at 2-2 and setting the tone for a breathless encounter.
Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard, commentating on TNT Sports, remarked, “If the start of this game is anything to go by then we are in for a hell of a night.” The first half continued with frenetic pace and four more goals.
Late Drama and Red Cards
The match reached a chaotic climax in the final minutes. Eduardo Camavinga was sent off for Real Madrid with four minutes remaining after receiving a second yellow card for time-wasting. Shortly after, Vincent Kompany’s side scored twice to seal their place in the semi-finals.
The drama didn’t end with the final whistle. Real Madrid players vented their anger over Camavinga’s dismissal. Guler, who had been substituted, was shown a straight red card on the sidelines for confronting referee Slavko Vincic.
Neuer’s Costly Error
Real Madrid went into the game facing a tough task against Bayern. However, they were gifted an opening goal due to a mistake by Bayern keeper Manuel Neuer. Under no pressure, Neuer hit a clearance straight to Guler, who capitalised with a brilliant left-footed finish.
Prior to this match, Neuer had received praise for his performance in the first leg at the Bernabeu. European football expert Raphael Honigstein told BBC Radio 5 Live, “Even a 40-year-old Neuer is one of the best keepers in the world and certainly the best in Germany. How can it be that he will not go to the World Cup? There is a lot of talk in Germany at the moment.”
Former Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart described Neuer as “faultless” in the first leg.
Real Madrid Face Trophyless Season
With their Champions League exit, Real Madrid are now facing the prospect of a rare trophyless season. Former Real Madrid winger Steve McManaman said, “The story of the night is the last five minutes. What a game and what an evening.”