Real Madrid went into their last Champions League group game already knowing that they were through to the knock out phase, yet they still battled well in order to defeat a spirited Borussia Dortmund side. The Germans were looking to claim a Europa League place and restore some pride in a European campaign that has not gone at all as they’d have hoped.
Zinedine Zidane’s men took the lead in the match through Borja Mayoral’s first goal in the competition, which was assisted by Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo himself then quickly added a second, which was his ninth in the Champions League this season. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang then stole the show a little bit, scoring either side of half-time to level things up.
Lucas Vazquez, who has been rumoured to possibly be leaving the club in January, scored the winner late on, to ensure that Real ended the group stage on a high. It was another defeat for Dortmund, who did eventually hang on to third place in the group to qualify for the Europa League as Spurs defeated APOEL.
Los Blancos go through as runners up in the group, meaning that they are likely to face a tough match in the last 16. The likes of Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United and Manchester City could be waiting in the next round.
Cristiano Ronaldo had more personal success too, as he became the only man to score in all six first round group stage matches in the Champions League.
Isco was particularly impressive in this game, as he pulled the strings in midfield. All of Real’s play came through him and he created numerous chances throughout the match. He was the best player on the pitch under he was replaced by Marcos Llorente after 69 minutes, in order to rest him for the big match against Sevilla on Saturday.
