Real Madrid moved a step closer to a third straight Champions League title after substitute Marco Asensio hit the winner in a 2-1 semi-final, first-leg victory at Bayern Munich on Wednesday. The 22-year-old came off the bench to finish a counter-attack and complete the holders’ comeback win, giving Real the advantage for the return game in Madrid next Tuesday.
Bayern took the lead at the sold-out Allianz Arena through Joshua Kimmich, but Marcelo equalised just before the break.
Despite Bayern dominating possession and creating plenty of chances, Madrid claimed a sixth straight win, dating back to 2012, over the Bavarians in the Champions League knockout stage.
Real Madrid’s Christiano Ronaldo failed to add to his tally of 15 Champions League goals this season, being denied a second-half strike by an offside flag, which would have made it 3-1.
James Rodriguez, who is on a two-year loan deal from Real, shone in Bayern’s midfield and found plenty of cracks in the Madrid defence.
However, this just was not Bayern’s night even as they missed a string of chances.
The hosts suffered a blow with barely five minutes gone when Arjen Robben limped off to be replaced by Thiago Alcantara.
Bayern changed their system with right-back Joshua Kimmich moving up to plug the space on the right wing, which sparked the opening goal.
Real’s first big real chance at goal was converted by Marcelo who struck a brilliant volley from the edge.
At half time, Isco was replaced by Asensio and in the 52nd minute, the young Spanish international scored Madrid’s second goal with a lovely dink from a breakaway.
Ronaldo had the ball in the net in the 70th minute but his goal was ruled out for handball.
Robert Lewandowski had a chance make it 2-2 in the 85th minute when he was played through on goal by Corentin Tolisso but the Polish striker’s shot went inches wide.
With the victory, Real Madrid became the first club to reach 150 Champions League wins.
