Top 5 Real Madrid Comeback Nights in the Champions League
Credit: Bdnews24.com
Real Madrid’s history in the UEFA Champions League is unmatched. With 14 titles, they’ve not only dominated the competition but also created a legacy of incredible comebacks that have amazed football fans everywhere. Known for their never-give-up attitude, they’ve pulled off some of the most unforgettable moments in Champions League history. Their latest comeback, where they turned a 0-2 loss into a 5-2 win against Borussia Dortmund at the Santiago Bernabeu last night in a similar fashion to their famous win over Liverpool is just another example of why Real Madrid are known as the masters of European comebacks.
Real Madrid is known for their fighting spirit, especially when it comes to the UEFA Champions League. Over the years, they’ve pulled off some incredible comebacks, turning impossible situations into unforgettable victories. Their legendary ability to stay calm under pressure on UCL nights has given fans plenty of magical nights to remember.
We highlight five (5) of the most special Real Madrid comeback moments in the Champions League so far.
- Real Madrid vs. AC Milan (2002-03)
Semi-finals, Second Leg: 3-1 win
In the 2002-03 season, Real Madrid faced Italian giants AC Milan in the semi-finals. After losing the first leg 0-1 in Milan, the pressure was on in the second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu. Madrid came out determined, and with goals from Ronaldo, Zidane, and Roberto Carlos, they turned the tie around to win 3-1 on aggregate. This comeback showed Madrid’s resilience and hunger for European glory.
- Real Madrid vs. Wolfsburg (2015-16)
Quarter-finals, Second Leg: 3-0 win
Real Madrid found themselves in a tough spot after a shocking 2-0 defeat to Wolfsburg in the first leg of the 2016 quarter-finals. The second leg at the Bernabéu needed something special, and Cristiano Ronaldo delivered. He scored a stunning hat-trick, leading Madrid to a 3-0 win and a place in the semi-finals. This comeback highlighted Ronaldo’s importance and the never-say-die attitude of the team.
- Real Madrid vs. PSG (2021-22)
Round of 16, Second Leg: 3-1 win
In the 2021-22 Round of 16, Real Madrid faced Paris Saint-Germain, who had the likes of Messi, Neymar, and Mbappé. After losing the first leg 1-0 and conceding another goal in the second leg, Madrid was 2-0 down on aggregate. But Karim Benzema took matters into his own hands, scoring a sensational hat-trick in just 17 minutes to win 3-1 on the night and 3-2 on aggregate. This comeback was a true show of Madrid’s refusal to give up.
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- Real Madrid vs. Manchester City (2021-22)
Semi-finals, Second Leg: 3-1 win (after extra time)
One of the greatest comebacks in modern football, Real Madrid looked down and out against Manchester City in the 2022 semi-finals. After losing the first leg 4-3 in Manchester, they were trailing 1-0 at the Bernabéu until the 90th minute. With just minutes left, Rodrygo scored twice in the space of two minutes to force extra time. Benzema then completed the job with a penalty, sending Madrid to the final with a 3-1 win (6-5 on aggregate). This match will go down in history as one of Madrid’s most thrilling Champions League moments.
- Real Madrid vs. Liverpool (2022-23)
Round of 16, Second Leg: 5-2 win
After a poor start at Anfield in the 2022-23 Round of 16, Madrid quickly found themselves 2-0 down against Liverpool. It looked like they were in for a long night, but as Madrid often does, they turned the game on its head. Vinícius Júnior and Benzema both scored twice, with Éder Militão also getting on the scoresheet, completing an astonishing 5-2 comeback victory. This match is another example of Real Madrid’s incredible ability to handle pressure on the biggest stage.
Real Madrid’s Champions League legacy is built on their ability to deliver in the most challenging situations. Time and time again, they’ve shown that no game is over until the final whistle. These special nights are a testament to the club’s winning mentality, leaving football fans around the world in awe of their remarkable comebacks. Whether it’s Ronaldo’s hat-tricks or Vinicius’s late heroics, Madrid has created moments that will be remembered for generations to come.
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