If there’s one word that defines Real Madrid in the Champions League, it’s resilience. Through decades of European football, Los Blancos have delivered countless moments of drama but some comebacks stand above the rest. Here are five unforgettable turnarounds that prove why Real Madrid is synonymous with magic on the biggest stage.
1. Real Madrid vs Manchester City (2022, Semi-Final)
Down 5–3 on aggregate in the 89th minute of the second leg, Madrid scored twice in under 90 seconds Rodrygo’s double before Karim Benzema sealed it with a penalty in extra time. It was one of the most shocking, spine-tingling turnarounds in UCL history.
2. Real Madrid vs Wolfsburg (2016, Quarter-Final)
After losing the first leg 2–0 in Germany, Cristiano Ronaldo produced a legendary hat-trick at the Bernabéu to win 3–0 and send Madrid through. Pure determination.
3. Real Madrid vs PSG (2022, Round of 16)
Down 2–0 on aggregate with 30 minutes to play, Karim Benzema struck a stunning hat-trick, overwhelming a star-studded PSG side and reminding Europe who runs the Champions League.
4. Real Madrid vs Chelsea (2022, Quarter-Final)
After winning 3–1 at Stamford Bridge, Madrid looked in control but Chelsea roared back at the Bernabéu, leading 3–0 and momentarily flipping the tie. Then came Luka Modrić’s outside-foot assist and Rodrygo’s composed finish to level it. In extra time, Karim Benzema’s decisive goal sent Madrid to the semifinals in yet another thrilling European night.
5. Real Madrid vs Liverpool (2023, Round of 16)
After falling 2–0 behind at Anfield, Madrid came roaring back with 5 unanswered goals with Karim Benzema proving his world class ability and showing once again that no deficit is too deep for this club.
Madridistas know: until the final whistle, nothing is over.