In a thrilling Champions League encounter, Braga pulled off an incredible comeback against Union Berlin, with Andre Castro emerging as the hero in the 94th minute. This last-minute strike not only secured a dramatic victory for Braga but also marked Castro’s first goal of the season.
The game had been a rollercoaster ride, with Union Berlin initially taking a 2-0 lead thanks to Sheraldo Becker, who netted both goals for the German club within the first 37 minutes. However, Braga was not to be outdone. Sikou Niakate halved the deficit shortly before halftime, and then, six minutes into the second half, Bruma delivered an exceptional finish to equalize for Union Berlin.
The stage was set for a nail-biting finale, and Andre Castro didn’t disappoint. Coming off the bench in the 86th minute, the 35-year-old Portuguese midfielder found himself at the right place at the right time. In the fourth minute of added time, he unleashed a powerful shot from the edge of the box that left Union Berlin’s goalkeeper, Frederik Ronnow, with no chance. The crowd went wild as Castro’s strike secured a remarkable victory for Braga.
Braga’s coach, Artur Jorge, couldn’t hide his admiration for his team’s “emotional strength” during the turnaround. However, he remained level-headed, stating, “The victory makes me very happy, but it doesn’t take my feet off the ground. We have to have balance, and we know that we are in a group with Napoli and Real Madrid.”
Unfortunately for Union Berlin, this was their second consecutive game in this season’s Champions League where a draw turned into a defeat at the last minute. Their previous heartbreak came in a 1-0 loss to Real Madrid, with Jude Bellingham scoring in the 94th minute.
This loss leaves Union Berlin at the bottom of Group C, still searching for their first point in their maiden Champions League campaign. Braga, on the other hand, sits in third place, level on points with Napoli.
Adding to Union Berlin’s woes was the fact that they couldn’t play at their usual Stadion An der Alten Forsterei. Instead, they had to host the match at the home of their rivals, Hertha Berlin. Union Berlin fans made their displeasure known by unfurling a banner with a message directed at UEFA.
In the end, this Champions League clash between Union Berlin and Braga will be remembered for its late-game heroics and the emotional rollercoaster it provided for fans.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Champions League comeback
What was the key moment in the match between Braga and Union Berlin?
The key moment in the match was Andre Castro’s 94th-minute goal, securing a dramatic comeback win for Braga.
Who were the standout performers for Union Berlin?
Sheraldo Becker, the Union Berlin forward, shone by scoring both of his team’s goals early in the match.
How did Braga manage to turn the game around?
Braga made an impressive comeback with Sikou Niakate and Bruma scoring crucial goals to level the score before Andre Castro’s late winner.
What did Braga’s coach, Artur Jorge, have to say about the victory?
Artur Jorge praised his team’s “emotional strength” for the turnaround but remained grounded, acknowledging the challenging group with Napoli and Real Madrid.
Why did Union Berlin play the match at Hertha Berlin’s stadium?
Union Berlin couldn’t use their regular stadium, Stadion An der Alten Forsterei, due to some unforeseen circumstances, so they hosted the game at Hertha Berlin’s stadium.
How have Union Berlin performed in their first-ever Champions League campaign?
Unfortunately, Union Berlin has struggled in their maiden Champions League campaign, sitting at the bottom of Group C without a point after this defeat.
More about Champions League comeback
- Champions League: Official website for the UEFA Champions League.
- Braga Official Website: Braga’s official club website for news and updates.
- Union Berlin Official Website: Official website of Union Berlin for club information.
- Andre Castro: Player profile of Andre Castro on Transfermarkt.
- Artur Jorge: Profile of Braga’s coach, Artur Jorge, on Transfermarkt.
- Hertha Berlin: Official website of Hertha Berlin, where Union Berlin hosted the match.
- Napoli: Official website of Napoli Football Club.
- Real Madrid: Official website of Real Madrid Club de Fútbol.
