Real Madrid 1-1 RB Leipzig: In a far from convincing display, Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid scraped past RB Leipzig 1-1 in the Champions League last-16 second leg, progressing with a 2-1 aggregate win.
Los Blancos, La Liga leaders, needed more creativity and struggled to break down a stubborn Leipzig defense. They survived several early scares, with Lois Openda needing clear-cut opportunities for the visitors.
Vinicius Jr. finally broke the deadlock in the 65th minute, leveraging on a brilliant run and assist from Jude Bellingham.
However, their lead was short-lived as Willi Orban headed home three minutes later for Leipzig, reigniting hope for the German side.
Despite pushing hard in the final minutes, Leipzig failed to find the crucial equalizer. Real Madrid secured their 20th appearance in the Champions League quarter-finals, extending their record in the European Cup to 39 appearances in the last eight.
This victory, however, raises questions about Real Madrid’s form. Their unconvincing performance against a determined Leipzig side highlights potential vulnerabilities that could be exploited in the upcoming rounds.
Talking Point: Can Real Madrid Win a 15th UCL Title Without Addressing Their Attacking Woes?
Despite their progression to the Champions League quarter-finals, Real Madrid’s unconvincing display against RB Leipzig reignites concerns about their attacking prowess.
The lack of a genuine goal-scorer was evident throughout the match, with Jude Bellingham often isolated and Vinicius Jr.’s opener being their only real moment of attacking brilliance.
The Bernabeu witnessed glimpses of what could have been with Kylian Mbappé’s two-goal performance for PSG the previous night.
While his arrival is expected in the summer, Real needs a solution in the short term if they aim to be genuine contenders for a 15th Champions League title.
This match is a microcosm of the more significant issue, highlighting the need for a focal point in attack and the potential shortcomings that could cost them dearly.
Player Focus: Antonio Rudiger Shines as Real Madrid Progress
While Real Madrid’s attack struggled, Antonio Rudiger was a rock at the back, earning him the Player of the Match award.
The German defender made several crucial blocks and interceptions, preventing RB Leipzig from capitalizing on several clear chances. This defensive solidity was vital to securing their place in the Champions League quarter-finals.
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Here are the player ratings from the match:
Real Madrid:
- Lunin – 7
- Carvajal – 7
- Nacho – 7
- Rudiger – 8 (MOTM)
- Mendy – 7
- Valverde – 7
- Tchouameni – 7
- Kroos – 7
- Bellingham – 7
- Camavinga – 6
- Vinicius Jr – 7
RB Leipzig:
- Gulacsi – 7
- Henrichs – 8
- Orban – 8
- Castello – 7
- Raum – 7
- Simons – 8
- Haidara – 7
- Schlager – 8
- Olmo – 8
- Sesko – 6
- Openda – 6
MATCH HIGHLIGHTS
Leipzig Miss Golden Chances, Rudiger Shines as Real Madrid Progress
RB Leipzig missed several vital chances, leading to their defeat against Real Madrid in the Champions League. Here are some key moments from the match:
Early Leipzig dominance:
- 13′ & 16′: Openda misses two golden opportunities, firing wide on both occasions after being found open by Olmo.
- 43′: Openda again goes close, sending a volley just wide after receiving a corner.
Real Madrid take the lead:
- 65′: Bellingham springs Vinicius Jr. clear with a delightful pass, and the Brazilian finishes with aplomb to put Real Madrid 1-0 up (2-0 on aggregate)
Leipzig responds quickly:
- 68′: Orban heads home from a left-wing cross to draw Leipzig level (Real Madrid still leads 2-1 on aggregate)
Close call for Leipzig:
- 90+2′: Olmo’s acrobatic volley clips the bar as Leipzig nearly snatch a dramatic equalizer.
Despite Leipzig’s early dominance and missed chances, Real Madrid held firm thanks to a solid defensive performance anchored by Antonio Rudiger (Player of the Match).
They ultimately secured their place in the quarter-finals with a 2-1 aggregate victory.