Former Stoke and Newcastle forward Joselu was instrumental in Real Madrid’s comeback victory over Union Berlin, ensuring their advance to the Champions League last 16 with an unblemished record.
Real Madrid overturned an early deficit, despite Union Berlin’s Kevin Volland scoring first following a missed penalty by Luka Modric, saved by keeper Frederik Ronnow.
Union Berlin’s hopes of progressing to the Europa League play-offs were dashed as Joselu, with his history at Stoke and Newcastle, netted two headers, propelling Real Madrid into the lead.
The match saw a tense moment when Alex Kral’s strike leveled the score at 2-2, only for Dani Ceballos to clinch victory with a goal from Jude Bellingham’s assist.
Real Madrid, with 14 European titles to their name, swept through Group C, amassing 18 points, a clear eight ahead of Napoli, who secured a 2-0 win over Braga.
Union Berlin’s debut in the Champions League culminated at the bottom of their group, concluding their European journey with just two points.
A pivotal moment came with a penalty awarded to Real due to Diogo Leite’s handball, but Modric’s attempt was thwarted by Ronnow, leading to Union Berlin briefly seizing the lead.
Joselu’s decisive two goals, assisted by Rodrygo and Fran Garcia, came within 11 minutes, shifting the game’s momentum.
Kral’s late equalizer momentarily rekindled hopes for the home crowd, but Ceballos’ 89th-minute goal ultimately sealed the win for Real.
Manchester City, the current European champions, have already qualified and aim to maintain a perfect record in Group G with a win against Red Star Belgrade.
Match Highlights:
- Teams: Union Berlin vs Real Madrid
- Possession: Union Berlin 26%, Real Madrid 74%
- Shots (On Target): Union Berlin 8 (5), Real Madrid 23 (9)
- Corners: Union Berlin 3, Real Madrid 9
- Fouls: Union Berlin 10, Real Madrid 5
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Real Madrid Champions League
Who scored the winning goal for Real Madrid against Union Berlin?
Dani Ceballos scored the winning goal for Real Madrid, finalizing the score at 3-2 against Union Berlin. This goal came in the 89th minute from an assist by Jude Bellingham.
Did Real Madrid maintain a perfect record in the Champions League Group Stage?
Yes, Real Madrid maintained a 100% record in the Champions League Group Stage. They won all six of their Group C matches, finishing with 18 points.
Which former English Premier League player scored twice for Real Madrid in this match?
Former Stoke and Newcastle striker Joselu scored two headers for Real Madrid in their match against Union Berlin.
What was the significance of this match for Union Berlin?
This match was significant for Union Berlin as it was part of their first campaign in the Champions League. However, they finished at the bottom of their group, ending their European involvement.
How did Union Berlin initially take the lead in the game?
Union Berlin initially took the lead through a goal by Kevin Volland, which followed a saved penalty by Real Madrid’s Luka Modric, stopped by goalkeeper Frederik Ronnow.
More about Real Madrid Champions League
- Real Madrid’s Champions League Journey
- Union Berlin’s First Champions League Campaign
- Joselu’s Impact at Real Madrid
- Champions League Group C Standings
- Highlights from Real Madrid vs Union Berlin
- Analysis of Real Madrid’s Perfect Group Stage Record
- Profiles of Key Players in Real Madrid vs Union Berlin Match
5 comments
kinda sad for Union though, they had a good run for their first time in the champs league, better luck next time guys
Just shows why we’re the kings of Europe, hail Real! Joselu’s headers were just class, pure class, and Ceballos’ finish, chef’s kiss
wow, real madrid just keeps on impressing, 100% record thats insane.. Joselu really stepping up big time!!
gotta admit, was rooting for the underdog Union Berlin here but Real’s class shone through, what a game of football!
Ceballos with the late winner, what a thriller! this game had everything, saves, comebacks, you name it