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

The Nigeria Football Federation has appointed Finidi George as the new head coach of the Super Eagles, beating Emmanuel Amuneke to the job.

George, a former international player, served as an assistant to José Santos Peseiro before taking over in an interim capacity for two friendly matches in Morocco last month.

George’s immediate task will be to lead the Super Eagles in two crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against South Africa and Benin Republic.

These matches, to be held in Uyo and Abidjan, respectively, are must-win encounters as Nigeria currently sits in third place in Group C of the African campaign, behind Rwanda and South Africa.

Manchester United are reportedly considering a significant squad overhaul this summer, with only three players considered off-limits.

The club’s new leadership, led by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and incoming CEO Omar Berrada, is said to be prepared to make bold decisions regarding player sales, especially with United facing restrictions due to Premier League spending rules.

The absence of Champions League football next season has dealt a blow to INEOS’ plans for a squad revamp, and the futures of many players, including manager Erik ten Hag, remain uncertain.

Agents and recruitment figures at rival clubs believe United’s management is open to most bids, indicating a potentially extensive shake-up of the squad.

Even Marcus Rashford, a key figure at United, could be allowed to leave if the right offer comes in. Reports suggest that United would seriously consider offers for the forward, particularly if he expresses a desire to move on.

Paris Saint-Germain is one of the clubs that could realistically meet Rashford’s valuation and wage demands.

While United still believe in Rashford and want him to succeed, his recent drop in form has been concerning. The club’s financial situation, with profits from homegrown player sales going towards Financial Fair Play regulations, could influence their decision to sell him.

United’s transfer plans include the desire to sign a new striker, central midfielder, and right-sided center back, but financial constraints may limit their ability to make big-money signings. The club may need to adopt a sell-to-buy strategy, especially if they miss out on European football next season.

Despite the potential for a squad overhaul, three young players – Kobbie Mainoo, Alejandro Garnacho, and Rasmus Hojlund – are reportedly seen as key to United’s future plans.

Rashford’s form has been compared unfavorably to Garnacho’s, who has impressed since joining from Atletico Madrid in 2020.

Rashford has faced criticism from fans and has struggled this season after signing a new contract. Manager Ten Hag has called for support for Rashford, acknowledging his past achievements and urging him to rediscover his best form.