Joselu the hero as Real Madrid defeat Bayern Munich to book UCL final place
In a stunning Champions League semifinal clash against Bayern Munich, veteran striker Joselu etched his name into the annals of Real Madrid history with an unforgettable performance.
With Carlo Ancelotti’s side trailing 1-0 after Alphonso Davies’ remarkable goal in the 68th minute, Joselu, 35 years old and introduced as a late substitute, emerged as the unlikely hero.
Joselu’s heroics began when he capitalized on a rare error from Bayern’s goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer, seizing the opportunity to equalize with just seven minutes remaining in the match. But the former Stoke City player wasn’t finished yet. In stoppage time, Joselu delivered the decisive blow, firing home a VAR-assisted winner that sent the Santiago Bernabeu crowd into a frenzy.
Real Madrid had struggled to break down Bayern’s defense until Joselu’s entrance into the game shifted the momentum. His predatory instincts and determination turned the tide in favor of the Spanish giants, preventing an all-German final and setting up a showdown against Borussia Dortmund at Wembley.
For Joselu, whose career had seen ups and downs since leaving Real Madrid in 2012, this remarkable comeback marked a personal triumph. His resurgence on the grand stage of the Champions League final underscores his remarkable journey from obscurity to prominence.
Ancelotti’s decision to trust Joselu off the bench proved to be a masterstroke, with the Italian manager deserving immense credit for the team’s remarkable turnaround.
Real Madrid will now face German side Borussia Dortmund in the finals at Wembley.
