Bayern Munich keeper Sven Ulreich has held his hands up for playing his part in his side’s exit from the UEFA Champions League with a heartfelt Instagram post that has seen the custodian garner much sympathy from his teammates and fans alike.
The post, when translated, reads, “Words cannot describe how disappointed I am about leaving the CL. We wanted to go to the finals and we did our best, and this unnecessary mistake happened. I can’t explain it. I’m sorry…for my team and for you fans.”
Bayern centre-back Mats Hummels was quick to comment, “U saved our ass many times Ulle!”
After Die Bayern had lost the first leg of their semi-final against Real Madrid at home 2-1, they were always up against it in the return fixture but Joshua Kimmich’s early strike had raised hopes.
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Karim Benzema would restore parity for the hosts soon after with a fine header but as the second-half started, disaster struck for Jupp Heynckes’ men.
Central midfielder Corentin Tolisso, without being aware of Benzema’s position, sent a backpass towards the unsuspecting Ulreich.
While the custodian was alert and rushed out, he seemed to have forgotten that a keeper cannot collect a backspass that has been executed by the foot.
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As he tried to somehow clear the ball instead, it slipped under his body and a gleeful Benzema would tap into an empty net.
While Bayern did manage to get one back to level the tie at 2-2 (4-3 in favour of Real on aggregate), they were unable to get the third goal that would’ve settled the tie in their favour.
Ulreich, as Hummels pointed out, has been excellent in goal with regular keeper Manuel Neuer missing for most parts of the season.
Yet, Die Bayern fans will be left wondering what if as their side missed out on club football’s greatest prize for yet another season.