Match Report and Player Ratings: Union Berlin 2-3 Real Madrid | Champions League thriller

Real Madrid wins the Champions League group stage after securing a dramatic 3-2 victory against Union Berlin at the Olympiastadion. Here the match report and player ratings as the match featured an intense battle, with late goals and a rollercoaster of emotions

First Half Drama

The initial 45 minutes were a tale of missed opportunities and unexpected turns. Despite dominating possession (76%), Real Madrid found themselves trailing at halftime.

Union Berlin capitalized on a defensive error, with Kevin Volland netting in the 47th minute after a mistake from David Alaba.

Luka Modric had a chance to put Real Madrid ahead just before the break but saw his penalty saved by Union Berlin’s goalkeeper, Frederik Ronnow. The first half ended with Union Berlin leading 1-0, showcasing the unpredictable nature of football.

Joselu’s Double Impact

The second half brought a flurry of action. Union Berlin increased their lead in the 85th minute with Tomas Kral’s well-placed shot, making it 2-0. However, Real Madrid responded swiftly, and Joselu Mato emerged as the hero with a crucial brace.

In the 61st minute, Rodrygo’s cross found Joselu, who headed the ball into the net, leveling the score at 1-1. Just 11 minutes later, in the 72nd minute, Joselu struck again, completing his double and putting Real Madrid ahead 2-1.

Late Drama

The game took another dramatic turn in the 85th minute when Union Berlin’s Tomas Kral equalized with a powerful shot, setting the score at 2-2. As the clock ticked down, Real Madrid intensified their efforts.

In the 89th minute, Dani Ceballos became the hero, scoring a crucial goal to put Real Madrid ahead 3-2. The match concluded with a thrilling 3-2 victory for Real Madrid.

Player Ratings: Union Berlin 2-3 Real Madrid

Real Madrid player ratings from 2-3 victory over Union Berlin