Bayern Munich secured their place in the last 16 of the Champions League with a dramatic 94th-minute strike by Alphonso Davies on Tuesday. The late goal secured a 1-1 draw on the night and a 3-2 aggregate win, ensuring Bayern's progression to the next stage.
Celtic had held a 1-0 lead since the 63rd minute and were on the verge of pushing Bayern into extra time, potentially marking their first-ever win in Germany. However, with Bayern's Harry Kane sidelined due to injury and time running out, Davies emerged as the hero, tapping in the decisive goal after Celtic keeper Kasper Schmeichel had denied Leon Goretzka's header.
\"We had the ball on the edge of the box, so I just went into the box and didn't think too much, just put a foot out and it went in,\" said an elated Davies. \"This is football. The scoreline is what it is. The most important thing is that we advanced.\"
Davies added, \"I'm very happy to get another goal in the Champions League,\" highlighting his crucial contribution after missing three of Bayern's four previous games in the competition.
Coach Vincent Kompany praised Davies, stating, \"It's impressive, he worked hard with the rehab team and medical team. We've immediately seen what he offers for the team.\"
In other matchups, AC Milan were eliminated from the Champions League after Theo Hernandez received a second yellow card, allowing Feyenoord to advance with a 2-1 aggregate win. Feyenoord will face either Inter Milan or Arsenal in the round of 16.
Club Brugge also progressed to the last 16, becoming the first Belgian side to win a knockout tie in the Champions League era, after defeating Atalanta 5-2 on aggregate. Meanwhile, Benfica reached the last 16 with a 4-3 aggregate win over Monaco. The draw for the last 16 will take place on Friday.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
