Real Madrid reached the Champions League quarter-finals as Vinicius Junior scored a sublime goal in a draw against RB Leipzig to secure a 2-1 aggregate win in the last 16.
Champions League – Real Madrid 1-1 RB Leipzig (2-1 agg)
The first leg went with a quick tempo as the German side looked to score at Bernabeu.
Meanwhile, the host held a slim lead thanks to Brahim Diaz’s superb winner in the first leg. Real were expected to demonstrate their quality and experience and see the job through on home turf.
More on Champions League updates:
- Harry Kane’s brace secures crucial victory for Bayern Munich
- Kylian Mbappe double seals quarter-final spot in Champions League
Los Blancos’ manager Carlo Ancelotti was keen to make clear that the tie was far from over, with the away-game rule no longer applicable from this season.
There were whistles from the Bernabeu Stands every time Leipzig had possession, but the host could not register an effort on target in the first half and continued to lack ideas after the break.
However, with far more superior attacking talent, it was just a matter of time before Madrid took the lead. Brazil forward Vinicius and England midfielder Bellingham proved to be the difference, and the home side eventually clicked into gear.
The opening goal took place in the 65th minute. Bellingham confidently strode forward before picking out Vinicius’s run. Vinicius intelligently cut inside from the left into a central area and sweetly drove a rising shot into the top corner.
Leipzig finally converted an opportunity three minutes later when skipper Willi Orban flicked in a header.
The goal renewed the Bundesliga side’s belief, and they continued to open up the Spanish league leaders as they searched for a leveler, which never came.
Leipz’s best chance belonged to former Barcelona youngster Dani Olmo, who came the closest to taking the tie into extra time; Olmo clipped the ball to meet the top of the crossbar in injury time as Bernabeu fans breathed in relief.
Real, aiming to become European champions for a record-extending 15th time, managed to hold out and reach the quarter-finals for the 12th time in the past 14 seasons.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side will find out their quarter-final opponents when the draw for the last eight is made on Friday, 15 March (11:00 GMT)
