Real Madrid reach Champs League semifinals
Thursday, 10 April 2014
DORTMUND, Apr 9 (AP): Real Madrid failed to score without the injured Cristiano Ronaldo and only just hung on to advance to its fourth straight Champions League semifinal after losing 2-0 at Borussia Dortmund Tuesday.
With its star striker on the bench because of a left-knee injury, Madrid could afford to miss an early penalty and still go through 3-2 on aggregate.
"We are pleased to have reached the semis, that was our goal. But we are not pleased with the way we did it," Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said.
Marco Reus scored in the 24th and 37th minutes, both times after Madrid mistakes, while Dortmund wasted several excellent opportunities in the second half, including a shot against the post.
Nine-time champion Madrid has lost in the semifinals for the past three years - and was eliminated last season by Dortmund.
Robert Lewandowski, who scored four goals in a 4-1 home win for Dortmund last season, returned after suspension but failed to score.
Dortmund coach Juergen Klopp said he was "proud of the image" his team projected - but lamented its failure to score in Madrid.