Real Madrid vs. Borussia Dortmund: A Historic Clash
1997-98 UEFA Champions League Semifinal First Leg Highlights
1 April 1998
On 1 April 1998, Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund faced off in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semifinal at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid.
The match was a tactical battle between two of Europe's top teams. Real Madrid, led by manager Guus Hiddink, featured a star-studded lineup including Raúl, Clarence Seedorf, and Roberto Carlos. Borussia Dortmund, managed by Ottmar Hitzfeld, boasted a young and talented squad with the likes of Lars Ricken, Stéphane Chapuisat, and Jürgen Kohler.
The game started at a high tempo, with both teams creating early chances. Real Madrid took the lead in the 24th minute through Fernando Morientes, who headed home a cross from Seedorf. Dortmund responded well and leveled the score just before half-time through a well-taken goal by Christian Wörns.
The second half continued in the same vein, with both teams fighting hard for every ball. Real Madrid eventually regained the lead in the 67th minute when Christian Karembeu scored a stunning volley from the edge of the area. Dortmund pushed for an equalizer but could not find a way past Real Madrid's resolute defense.
The match ended 2-1 in favor of Real Madrid, giving them a slender advantage going into the second leg in Dortmund. The game was a classic encounter between two of Europe's best teams and is still remembered fondly by fans of both clubs.
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