How Real Madrid's escape artistry keeps Champions League dreams alive

Real Madrid possess the uncanny ability to snatch something from the jaws of defeat. In the Champions League since the 2010-2011 season, they have found themselves with fewer shots than their opponents on 25 occasions, yet they have only suffered defeat in nine of those matches.  

It came as no surprise then that the Real players remained composed and unfazed when Bayern Munich dominated the first leg of the semifinal for long stretches. During the opening 20 minutes, the German giants unleashed six shots and commanded over 60 percent possession. Leroy Sane came close to scoring, only to be denied by goalkeeper Lunin from close range, while Harry Kane's audacious lob from the halfway line threatened to cause havoc.  

However, when Real find themselves seemingly outnumbered and faced with immediate danger, they exude a sense of security and confidence, ready to pounce. And in a matter of seconds, the tide can turn as the ball finds its way into the opponent's net.

On this particular occasion, Real capitalized on their first clear chance on goal to establish a lead. It was none other than their seasoned veteran Toni Kroos, who orchestrated the move. At 34 years old, Kroos astutely observed Kim Min-jae stepping out of the defensive line to close down Vinicius Junior. With quick thinking and precision, Kroos threaded a perfectly weighted through ball into the vacant space. All that remained was for Vinicius to apply the finishing touch.

Bayern deserves accolades for their unwavering resilience, refusing to be easily deflated. Despite the pressure mounting on them following their streak of 11 consecutive Bundesliga titles being halted by Bayer Leverkusen, and with the announcement of their coach Thomas Tuchel's departure this summer, Bayern remain determined to finish the season with a bang.

Even after falling behind, despite creating numerous scoring opportunities, Tuchel's response was swift. Off came Leon Goretzka, and on came Raphael Guerreiro. While Real Madrid was still basking in the glory of their goal against the run of play, Bayern unleashed a devastating comeback, scoring two goals in a ruthless four-minute period. 

Leading the charge was Sane, who collected the ball after a surging run from Konrad Laimer. The German winger then cut inside Ferland Mendy and unleashed a powerful strike that found the back of the net near the post. With the pendulum swinging in Bayern's favor and a surge of momentum on their side, they swiftly wrestled control of the match.  

Just minutes later, a penalty was awarded after Jamal Musiala was obstructed in the area by Lucas Vazquez. Showing nerves of steel, Kane confidently dispatched the spot kick, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way, despite the best efforts of Jude Bellingham to disrupt his concentration.  

Naturally, Real would not simply roll over and let the game slip away from their grasp. Manuel Neuer was called into action, making two sharp saves to deny Vinicius, while Toni Kroos and Jude Bellingham made way for the introduction of Luka Modric, injecting fresh impetus into the Madrid side. Gradually, Madrid began to relevate the tempo, refusing to back down.

With just seven minutes remaining on the clock, Rodrygo maneuvered into the penalty area, enticing a needless tug from Kim. After a long wait for the VAR review, Vinicius calmly dispatched the spot-kick, finding the back of the net and setting the stage for a thrilling second leg in Spain.

The revelation of who delivers the decisive blow will unfold in the upcoming week. But at least Kane's season remains alive and kicking. The English skipper has had limited success in semifinals or finals for both club and country, with only three goals to his name. Nevertheless, he showcased his brilliance on Tuesday night, seamlessly navigating between the lines and finding the back of the net with remarkable ease.  

In fact, Kane now holds the record for the most goal involvements by an English player in a single Champions League season, boasting an impressive tally of eight goals and three assists. While the league title may have eluded him due to the high-flying Leverkusen, his first season in German football still presents an opportunity for one final triumph on June 1.