Vinicius Jr’s double earns Real Madrid 2-2 draw at Bayern

The UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid didn’t disappoint as the two European heavyweights played out an entertaining 2-2 draw at the Allianz Arena. Vinicius Junior gave the visitors the lead in the first half before Leroy Same and a Harry Kane penalty turned the game on its head. Vinicius Jr. responded with a penalty of his own to level things up.

Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg match between FC Bayern München and Real Madrid at Allianz Arena on April 30, 2024 in Munich, Germany.

In a pulsating tie featuring two European heavyweights that swung both ways, it is arguably advantage Real heading into next week’s return leg in Spain, with a place in the final at Wembley on the line.

Bayern had nothing to show for their early pressure and were then punished midway through the first half when Toni Kroos’ pass sliced open their defence before Vinicius Jnr. applied the finishing touch.

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Vinicius’ bow to praise Kroos said everything about the assist, and for the Brazilian it was a goal at the Champions League semi-final stage for a third straight season.

That came against the run of play, as did Bayern’s leveller after half-time, with Sane sneaking a fierce effort into the near post past Andriy Lunin.

And just four minutes later, Bayern completed the turnaround, with Lucas Vazquez fouling Jamal Musiala inside the area before Kane scored from the penalty spot with a cool stutter run-up and finish.

The drama was not over though, with Kim Min-jae fouling Rodrygo and allowing Vinicius Jr. to score his second of the night.