Real Madrid's Thrilling UCL Run 2021-22: A Fixture Flashback
The UEFA Champions League (UCL) 2021-22 season was nothing short of a rollercoaster for Real Madrid fans. From nail-biting group stage matches to unforgettable knockout round comebacks, every fixture was a chapter in what became a historic campaign. In this article, weâll take a detailed look back at Real Madridâs UCL fixtures from that season, reliving the moments that defined their journey to lifting the trophy.
Group Stage: A Solid Foundation
Real Madrid's Champions League journey in the 2021-22 season began in Group D, where they were drawn alongside Inter Milan, Shakhtar Donetsk, and Sheriff Tiraspol. The group stage presented a mix of familiar foes and a surprising underdog, setting the stage for an intriguing series of matches.
Matchday 1: Inter Milan vs. Real Madrid
The campaign kicked off with a tough away fixture against Inter Milan at the San Siro. This was a rematch of the previous season's group stage encounters, and expectations were high. The match was a tactical battle, with both teams showing defensive solidity. It remained goalless for much of the game until a late goal from Rodrygo secured a 1-0 victory for Real Madrid. This win was crucial, setting a positive tone for their UCL aspirations.
Matchday 2: Real Madrid vs. Sheriff Tiraspol
In what was expected to be a straightforward home game, Real Madrid faced Sheriff Tiraspol, the champions of Moldova. However, football is full of surprises, and this match delivered one of the biggest upsets in Champions League history. Sheriff took the lead in the first half, and although Real Madrid equalized from the penalty spot, the visitors scored a late winner to stun the Santiago Bernabéu. The final score was 2-1 in favor of Sheriff, leaving Real Madrid fans in disbelief. This defeat served as a wake-up call, highlighting the unpredictability of the competition.
Matchday 3: Shakhtar Donetsk vs. Real Madrid
Looking to bounce back from the shock defeat, Real Madrid traveled to Ukraine to face Shakhtar Donetsk. This was a must-win game, and the team responded emphatically. Real Madrid dominated the match, with VinĂcius JĂșnior putting on a stellar performance, scoring two goals. The team displayed attacking fluidity and defensive stability, securing a convincing 5-0 victory. This win not only restored confidence but also put them back on track in the group.
Matchday 4: Real Madrid vs. Shakhtar Donetsk
The return fixture against Shakhtar Donetsk at the Bernabéu was another opportunity for Real Madrid to assert their dominance. They continued their strong form, winning 2-1. Karim Benzema scored both goals for Real Madrid, showcasing his importance to the team. This victory further solidified their position in the group, bringing them closer to qualification for the knockout stages.
Matchday 5: Sheriff Tiraspol vs. Real Madrid
Determined to avenge their earlier defeat, Real Madrid traveled to Moldova to face Sheriff Tiraspol. This time, there would be no upset. Real Madrid put on a dominant display, securing a comfortable 3-0 victory. The goals came from David Alaba, Toni Kroos, and Karim Benzema, ensuring a comprehensive win. This victory guaranteed Real Madrid's qualification for the knockout stages.
Matchday 6: Real Madrid vs. Inter Milan
The final group stage match saw Real Madrid host Inter Milan in a battle for the top spot in the group. Both teams had already qualified, but finishing as group winners was crucial for a favorable draw in the next round. Real Madrid won the match 2-0, with goals from Toni Kroos and Marco Asensio, securing their position as group winners. This victory capped off a successful group stage campaign, setting the stage for the knockout rounds.
Knockout Stage: The Comeback Kings
The knockout stage is where Real Madrid truly showcased their Champions League pedigree. Facing a series of challenging opponents, they displayed remarkable resilience and determination, earning the moniker of âcomeback kings.â
Round of 16: Paris Saint-Germain vs. Real Madrid
The Round of 16 draw pitted Real Madrid against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), a tie that was highly anticipated due to the star power on both sides. The first leg in Paris was a difficult affair for Real Madrid. PSG dominated the match, with Kylian Mbappé causing constant problems for the defense. PSG won the first leg 1-0, with Mbappé scoring a late goal. This result left Real Madrid with a significant challenge heading into the return leg at the Bernabéu.
The second leg in Madrid was one of the most memorable matches of the entire season. PSG extended their lead through Kylian Mbappé, putting Real Madrid in a seemingly impossible situation. However, Karim Benzema had other ideas. In a stunning display of individual brilliance, Benzema scored a hat-trick in just 17 minutes, turning the tie on its head. The Bernabéu erupted as Real Madrid completed an incredible comeback, winning the match 3-1 and the tie 3-2 on aggregate. This victory was a testament to Real Madrid's fighting spirit and Benzema's exceptional form.
Quarter-Final: Chelsea vs. Real Madrid
In the quarter-finals, Real Madrid faced Chelsea, the defending champions. The first leg at Stamford Bridge was a masterclass from Real Madrid. Karim Benzema continued his scoring streak, netting another hat-trick. Real Madrid won the match 3-1, putting them in a strong position to advance to the semi-finals. However, Chelsea were not going to go down without a fight.
The second leg at the Bernabéu was another thrilling encounter. Chelsea mounted a remarkable comeback, taking a 3-0 lead and putting themselves ahead on aggregate. Real Madrid looked to be on the brink of elimination, but Rodrygo scored a late goal to force extra time. In extra time, Karim Benzema once again proved to be the hero, scoring the decisive goal that sent Real Madrid through to the semi-finals with a 5-4 aggregate score. This tie was a true Champions League classic, showcasing the drama and excitement that the competition is known for.
Semi-Final: Manchester City vs. Real Madrid
The semi-final clash against Manchester City was arguably the most dramatic tie of the season. The first leg at the Etihad Stadium was an epic encounter, filled with goals and breathtaking attacking play. Manchester City won the match 4-3, but Real Madrid showed incredible resilience, scoring three goals away from home. Karim Benzema scored twice, including a Panenka penalty, while VinĂcius JĂșnior also found the net. This result left the tie finely balanced heading into the second leg.
The second leg at the Bernabéu was another night of high drama. Manchester City took the lead through Riyad Mahrez, putting them in a commanding position. Real Madrid needed to score two goals just to force extra time. In the dying minutes of the match, Rodrygo scored two quick-fire goals, sending the Bernabéu into raptures and leveling the tie. In extra time, Karim Benzema scored a penalty to complete another incredible comeback, securing a 6-5 aggregate victory. This match will forever be remembered as one of the greatest Champions League comebacks of all time.
Final: Real Madrid vs. Liverpool
The final in Paris against Liverpool was the culmination of Real Madrid's remarkable Champions League journey. Liverpool dominated possession and created several chances, but Real Madrid's defense stood firm. Thibaut Courtois put on a man-of-the-match performance, making a string of incredible saves to keep Liverpool at bay. VinĂcius JĂșnior scored the only goal of the match, securing a 1-0 victory for Real Madrid. This win marked Real Madrid's 14th Champions League title, further cementing their status as the kings of Europe. The 2021-22 Champions League campaign was a testament to Real Madrid's never-say-die attitude, their tactical flexibility, and the brilliance of their key players.
Key Players and Moments
Several players stood out during Real Madrid's Champions League-winning campaign. Karim Benzema was the top scorer, with 15 goals, and his performances in the knockout stages were nothing short of legendary. VinĂcius JĂșnior provided the spark and creativity in attack, while Thibaut Courtois was a rock in goal. The experience of players like Luka ModriÄ, Toni Kroos, and Casemiro was also crucial in guiding the team through difficult moments.
The 2021-22 Champions League season will be remembered for the incredible comebacks, the individual brilliance of the players, and the unwavering spirit of Real Madrid. It was a campaign that showcased the magic of the Champions League and solidified Real Madrid's legacy as one of the greatest clubs in football history. Whether you're a die-hard Madridista or a neutral fan, the memories from this season will last a lifetime.
In conclusion, the Real Madrid UCL fixtures of the 2021-22 season provided a captivating narrative filled with drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments. From the shocking defeat against Sheriff Tiraspol to the remarkable comebacks against PSG, Chelsea, and Manchester City, every match contributed to the team's triumphant journey to lifting the trophy. The season underscored the importance of resilience, tactical adaptability, and individual brilliance in achieving success at the highest level of European football. As fans reminisce about this historic campaign, the memories of Benzema's hat-tricks, Courtois' heroic saves, and VinĂcius JĂșnior's decisive goals will continue to inspire and captivate for years to come. This season was more than just a series of games; it was a testament to the enduring legacy of Real Madrid in the Champions League.
