Published on 07.03.2024
Real Madrid advanced to the quarter-finals of the Champions League after a 2-1 aggregate victory over RB Leipzig.
Vinicius Junior proved decisive, scoring the goal that Leipzig couldn’t find in order to secure the win.
Similar to the first leg, Leipzig squandered numerous opportunities and paid for their wastefulness when Vinicius converted Jude Bellingham’s pass with 25 minutes remaining, giving Real a 2-0 lead. However, three minutes later, Leipzig finally capitalized on an opportunity as captain Willi Orban headed in a flicked ball.
Antonio Rudiger tonight:
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 6, 2024
3 blocks
3 clearances
100% ground duels won
100% aerial duels won
Monster performance 💪 pic.twitter.com/AjXSktyRgZ
This goal reignited hope for the Bundesliga side and they continued pressing against Real Madrid in search of an equalizer. Dani Olmo, formerly of Barcelona, came closest to taking the match into extra time with a looping header that grazed the top of the crossbar during injury time. Unfortunately for Leipzig, away goals no longer count in UEFA competitions.
Nevertheless, Real Madrid managed to withstand their opponent’s pressure and secure their place in the quarter-finals. This achievement marks their twelfth appearance at this stage within fourteen seasons – an impressive feat indeed.
🚨🗣️ Benjamin Henrichs: "If one of our players went for the neck of a Real Madrid player, he'd be sent off 100%."
— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) March 7, 2024
Willi Orban also told Sky Sports: "The referees don’t have the guts to put such players down. He grabs my neck with both hands. That’s disrespectful." 😳 pic.twitter.com/0Uii1r2352
Now Carlo Ancelotti’s team awaits Friday’s draw (15th March at 11:00 GMT) which will determine their opponents for this next round. With aspirations of becoming European champions for a record-extending fifteenth time, Real Madrid remains focused on achieving success in this prestigious tournament once again.
