Real Madrid Dominate Bayern in Munich to All But Seal Final Spot
Munich, Germany — 29 April
Real Madrid delivered a stunning first-half performance at the Allianz Arena on Tuesday night, effectively sealing their place in the UEFA Champions League final with a commanding 3-0 lead over Bayern Munich in the second leg of the semi-final.
Having won the first leg 1-0 at the Santiago Bernabéu, the Spanish giants arrived in Germany with a narrow advantage. But by halftime, they had all but ended the contest. Three goals without reply left Bayern needing five in the second half—a mountain too steep to climb against a side of Madrid’s calibre.
Remarkably, it was central defender Sergio Ramos who emerged as the unexpected hero. The Spaniard, known more for his defensive prowess, found the net twice in quick succession. His first came from a corner, capitalising on a lapse in Bayern’s marking. Just minutes later, he struck again—this time from a free-kick delivered by Gareth Bale, with the German defence once more caught flat-footed.
Cristiano Ronaldo then added his name to the scoresheet on the half-hour mark, finishing a rapid counterattack with clinical precision. Bale, again the provider, released the Portuguese forward, who coolly slotted past Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.
As in the first leg, Bayern dominated possession but struggled to create meaningful chances. Pep Guardiola’s side appeared shell-shocked by Madrid’s ruthless efficiency and failed to convert their territorial control into goals.
Madrid’s defence remained resolute, with goalkeeper Iker Casillas largely untroubled throughout the opening 45 minutes. Ramos’ goals, combined with Ronaldo’s trademark counterattacking finish, left the home crowd in stunned silence.
At this point, with a 4-0 aggregate scoreline, Bayern would require a historic second-half comeback—something never achieved at this stage of the competition.
The match marked another memorable European night for Real Madrid, who now look set to return to the final for the first time since 2002. For Bayern, the reigning champions, the result is a humbling blow and raises questions about their tactics and preparation for this high-stakes clash.
The second half offers little consolation for the Bundesliga side, who must now focus on domestic matters while Madrid turn their sights to Lisbon—and the tantalising possibility of a 10th European title.
