May 9th 2024.
Antonio Rudiger was on fire during Real Madrid's Champions League semi-final match against Bayern Munich. Not only did he provide the assist for Joselu's game-winning goal in stoppage time, but he was also caught up in the excitement of the victory as he was mobbed by ecstatic Madrid supporters.
The first leg had ended in a 2-2 draw, and Bayern's Alphonso Davies returned to the starting lineup for the second leg. He shocked the Madrid crowd with a stunning solo goal, putting the visitors in the lead. But thanks to Rudiger's precise cross, substitute Joselu was able to capitalize on an error by Bayern's goalkeeper and score the equalizer. And just minutes later, he struck again, completing his double and sending the Bernabeu into a frenzy.
The win secured Real Madrid's spot in the Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund, who had pulled off an upset against Paris Saint-Germain in the other semi-final match. A victory for Madrid would mean their 15th European title, extending their record and putting them eight ahead of AC Milan, the next best team on the all-time list.
Manager Carlo Ancelotti was full of praise for his players, calling them "unbelievable" and "the best squad" he has ever had in his career. And among the players, Rudiger stood out as a leader, as he was seen leading the celebrations at the Bernabeu.
The win was celebrated long into the night in the Spanish capital, with fans reveling in their team's epic comeback. Just four days prior, Madrid had also been crowned La Liga champions for the 36th time, making the celebrations even sweeter.
Despite the looming challenge of facing Dortmund in the final, the players took a moment to enjoy their triumph. Rudiger, in particular, paid tribute to teammate David Alaba, who had suffered a serious knee injury in December, by performing Alaba's trademark chair celebration. The defender explained that it was important to honor all members of the team, and that Alaba's chair had to be brought out for the fans to cheer him on.
As Rudiger tried to leave the Bernabeu, he was swarmed by Madrid supporters, who started dancing and chanting with the defender. Rudiger joined in the celebration, beeping his car horn and dancing from the driver's seat as a crowd gathered around him.
Looking ahead to the final, Rudiger will be aiming to add another Champions League title to his resume, having won it with Chelsea three years prior. And as former Arsenal and France legend Thierry Henry pointed out, it was a surprise to see Rudiger and Joselu play such pivotal roles in Madrid's victory. But as he said, "this is what Real Madrid does."
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