Real Madrid Advances to Champions League Knockout Stage; Goalkeeper Lunin Shines After Kepa's Warmup Injury
Andriy Lunin excels in surprise start, ensuring Madrid's 27th consecutive Champions League knockout stage appearance with a clean sheet against Braga.
- Andriy Lunin, Real Madrid's goalkeeper who replaced Kepa Arrizabalaga due to a warmup injury, made his mark by saving a penalty six minutes into the match, contributing to Madrid's 3-0 victory over Braga.
- Lunin's heroics helped Real Madrid secure its 27th consecutive appearance in the Champions League knockout stage.
- Despite not having Jude Bellingham on the pitch due to a shoulder injury, Real Madrid found strength in its players, with Brahim Díaz, Vinícius Júnior, and Rodrygo all scoring goals.
- The victory also pushed Madrid five points clear in its Champions League group, advancing it into the knockout stage.
- Kepa Arrizabalaga, who missed the game due to a muscle injury, was signed this season to replace Thibaut Courtois who's also sidelined due to a knee injury.