The UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid lived up to its billing, ending in a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Allianz Arena. Vinicius Junior opened the scoring for Real Madrid in the first half, but Leroy Sane and Harry Kane turned the game around with a goal each for Bayern. Vinicius then equalized with a penalty to set up an exciting second leg in Spain.

Vinicius Junior was the hero for Real Madrid, scoring both goals to secure a valuable draw away from home. Despite Bayern’s early pressure, it was Real Madrid who took the lead midway through the first half, capitalizing on a brilliant pass from Toni Kroos.

Vinicius’ goal marked his third consecutive season scoring in the Champions League semi-final.

Bayern Munich fought back in the second half, with Sane finding the back of the net to level the score.

The momentum shifted further in Bayern’s favor when Kane converted a penalty, giving them the lead. However, Real Madrid responded quickly, with Vinicius scoring his second of the night from the spot after a foul on Rodrygo.

The result leaves the tie finely poised heading into the second leg, with a place in the final at Wembley on the line.

Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid Highlights

Former Super Eagles player Mikel Obi made an appearance at the UEFA Champions League draw following the completion of the Round of 16 ties.

Arsenal advanced to the quarter-finals after surviving a scare against Porto and winning in a penalty shootout.

Other top teams such as Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, Manchester City, Borussia Dortmund, and Atletico Madrid also secured quarter-final spots.

The draw, held recently, pitted these top teams against each other as they aim for a path to Wembley.

Mikel Obi, an AFCON winner, selected Arsenal to play against Bayern Munich, a team that has historically had the upper hand against the Gunners.

In other matchups, Barcelona will face Paris Saint-Germain, Atletico Madrid will play against Borussia Dortmund, and there will be a rematch of last season’s clash between Real Madrid and Manchester City.

Real Madrid will seek revenge against Manchester City, who knocked them out last season before going on to win the final against Inter Milan.

Bayer Leverkusen received a significant boost with the return of Nigerian striker Victor Boniface to training after a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

The 23-year-old had been out of action since January due to a serious injury that also prevented him from participating in the Africa Cup of Nations with the Super Eagles earlier this year.

Leverkusen shared a picture of Boniface back on the ball during a training session at the BayArena, indicating his first steps towards a comeback.

The image posted on Twitter was captioned: “Small steps, first time back on the ball! 😮‍💨🇳🇬 #Bayer04 #Werkself | @boniface_jrn”

The sight of Victor Boniface back in training will be a relief for Leverkusen fans, who have been concerned about the fitness of their key striker.

Boniface had been in exceptional form for the Bundesliga team before his injury, scoring 10 goals and providing seven assists in just 16 Bundesliga appearances.

His return will strengthen Xabi Alonso’s squad as they aim for their first-ever Bundesliga title.

While caution will be exercised in his reintegration, there are positive signs that Boniface will lead Leverkusen’s attack again before the season concludes.