Last night’s Champions league did not live below expectation, as we saw another exciting night of football. Most pundits went to bed embarrassed, as many tipped Madrid to make it through to the final. But an Arjen Robben’s 27th minute penalty ensured that Bayern dragged the match to extra-time, and subsequently penalty shootouts.
Madrid started the match like a house on fire, with Ronaldo scoring two quick goals in succession before the 14th minute. After the goals, Bayern took control of the game, and their repeated efforts on goal were rewarded by a penalty courtesy a foul on Gomez. Robben stepped up, took the penalty which filtered through the fingers of Cassilas into the goal.
With the first half ending 2-1 in favour of Madrid, it left the aggregate at 3-3. As expected, both teams came out in the second half with so much caution. Although with the quality in the Madrid side, one expected them to play with a higher tempo. But the players can be pardoned, as they were recovering from a gruelling encounter against Barcelona over the weekend. The calibre of that match did not afford Madrid the luxury of resting players. Conversely, Bayern rested most of their players in their weekend game against Bremen. They knew that their league title chase was over, and concentrated on reaching the Champions league Final, which was their only realistic title chance for the season- and no better place to play such final than their home soil- The Allianz Arena.
When the match got to penalties, it was then thrown open, as the two keepers involved can adjudged as the best around. Mourinho has earlier stated in his pre-match conference that penalties are 50-50 situations, and also emphasised how unlucky he has been in Champions league semis. Unfortunately, his fears became reality, as Ronaldo and Kaka both missed Madrid opening penalties. But they were handed a life-line when Cassilas saved Kroos’and Lahm’s attempts. Alonso’s conversion gave Madrid hope, only for Ramos to send the next chance to the stands. Schweinsteiger smashed home the last penalty that sent Bayern to the final, ending the shootout 1-3 in favour of the German club.
Schweinsteiger celebrates after scoring the winner
Yes, Madrid can leave the tournament with heads held high, but they could have done better. I did not see any reason why Altintop, Nurin, or Callejon were not given a chance if they were fit. These are players that can give the game a different dimension. Kaka’s introduction, from my standpoint, was a right step that did not pay needed results. He failed to offer the sharpness that was expected.
Kaka misses... Neuer Saves
On the penalties, in my opinion, I didn’t expect Ronaldo to start- there was too much pressure on him, coupled with fatigue. 2008 Final shootouts where he missed against Chelsea, would also quickly flash through his mind. Kaka also just had a not-too-nice game, and shouldn’t have stepped up for that kick. I would have preferred an Alonso, Marcelo, Higuain starting; but like all penalties, it’s a lucky option to end the game.
Oh no! Ro rues missed panalty
Lord! Give me this day
Assessing this season’s achievement, Madrid should be proud. I see Mourinho staying for another season. They may have a better go at the competition next time.
On to the next level, the least expected finalists- Bayern Munich vs Chelsea- will now tug it out at the Allianz Arena on May 19, 2012. Will Bayern’s home advantage help them lift the trophy, or will dogged Chelsea’s fairytale season climax with the lifting their first Champion league title in the oddest season?
So so sad...I never expected that Madrid won't qualifier. Esp. after mourinho sent text to chelsea players that he would see them @ munich.
ReplyDeleteHe's still my most preferred coach.
Kaka was not in the game at all. Ramos is the flop of the match.
ReplyDeleteHala Madrid! Anyday anytime