RB Leipzig eliminated after 2-0 defeat at Real Madrid

RB Leipzig's U19s have lost their first round of 16 match in the Youth League in the club's young history and have been eliminated. Ex-professional Sebastian Heidinger's team lost 2-0 (0-1) at Real Madrid on Wednesday evening. Gonzalo (24 minutes) gave the Spaniards the lead in a strong wind at the Estadio Alfredo Di Stefano, before Cristian Perea (81) made the difference.

Without U17 World Cup winner Winners Osawe (thumb operation), Tim Köhler (yellow card suspension), Din Klapija (muscular problems) and Jonathan Norbye (infection), Leipzig found it difficult to get into the game, not least because Real had a clear advantage in midfield. The Whites from the "La Cantera" youth academy made the most of their first big chance. Gonzalo (24) was through on goal after a strong pass from Cesar Palacios and was able to shoot from 16 meters. RB keeper Timo Schlieck, who was the hero in the penalty shoot-out in the intermediate round win at Danish champions FC Midtjylland, was powerless.

Leipzig's Aris Bayindir (36) had the chance to equalize with a long-range shot from 17 metres, but the ball went just wide. RB also had good chances after the break, even though the hosts dominated the game. Nuha Jatta (64') failed to beat Real goalkeeper Ferran Quetglas from close range after a perfect cross to the second post. At the other end, Schlieck (76) saved from the free-standing Iker Bravo. After a corner kick, Perea (81) made the difference with a volley from 16 meters that hit the inside of the post.

Winner Real will now face AC Milan, who beat SC Braga, in the quarter-finals on 12/13 March. The matches in the knockout phase will be decided in just one match. The semi-finals and final will be played in a final tournament from April 19-22 at the Colovray Stadium in Nyon.