Real Madrid pulled off a stunning late fightback to overcome Bayern Munich 3-1 in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie, securing their place in the semi-finals.
In a pulsating encounter at the Allianz Arena, Bayern Munich looked to be cruising towards victory after Robert Lewandowski had given them an early lead. The Polish striker converted from the penalty spot after being brought down by Nacho Fernandez.
As the first half wore on, Real Madrid slowly grew into the game and started to create chances. Karim Benzema came close on several occasions, while Vinicius Junior also threatened the Bayern goal.
However, it was Bayern who continued to look the more dangerous side, and they doubled their lead just before the break when Alphonso Davies fired home from a tight angle.
Real Madrid needed a quick response after the break, and they got it through Benzema. The French striker headed home from close range to halve the deficit and give his side a lifeline.
The goal seemed to galvanize Real Madrid, and they poured forward in search of an equalizer. They were rewarded for their efforts in the 83rd minute when Sergio Ramos' header found its way past Manuel Neuer.
With the score level at 2-2, Real Madrid knew that one more goal would see them through to the semi-finals. And it duly arrived in the 88th minute, when Joselu completed a remarkable turnaround with a fine finish.
The goal sent the Real Madrid players and fans into raptures, while the Bayern Munich players were left devastated. It was a cruel blow for the German champions, who had been on the verge of reaching the semi-finals for the first time in four years.
But for Real Madrid, it was another night of European triumph. They have now reached the semi-finals of the Champions League for the third time in four years, and they will be confident of going all the way this time.
* Real Madrid's victory was all the more impressive given the fact that they were without several key players, including Gareth Bale, Eden Hazard, and Toni Kroos.
* Bayern Munich will be left to rue their missed chances, especially in the second half. They had several opportunities to kill the game off, but they failed to take them.
* The victory will give Real Madrid a huge boost ahead of the second leg of their semi-final tie against Chelsea. They will travel to Stamford Bridge with a slender 1-0 lead, but they will be confident of progressing to the final.
* Bayern Munich will now have to focus on winning the Bundesliga title. They are currently four points clear at the top of the table, and they will be determined to seal their ninth consecutive league championship.
* The Champions League semi-finals will take place on April 27 and 28, and May 4 and 5. The final will be held at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul on May 29.
