Video Highlights: Joselu propels Real Madrid into Champions League final

Two years ago, Joselu Mato was a passionate Real Madrid supporter in the stands at the Stade de France, watching his team clinch their 14th European Cup. Fast forward to this Wednesday, the seasoned striker was pivotal in Real Madrid’s dramatic 2-1 comeback victory against Bayern Munich, scoring two decisive late goals and propelling his team into the Champions League final.

Joselu, now 34, reflected on his journey from fan to key player. “I always make the most of my chances,” he said, reminiscing about his experience as a spectator two years prior and now living the dream firsthand.

His role in the semi-final mirrored Real Madrid’s 2022 campaign, where players like Karim Benzema and Rodrygo made headlines with their clutch performances. Joselu, typically seen as an underdog, proved his worth by securing a spot in Madrid’s storied Champions League history with his performance against Bayern.

“It’s a dream come true,” Joselu expressed. “Scoring in scenarios like these is what every striker dreams of.”

Joselu joined Real Madrid last summer, an uncharacteristic signing for the club known for high-profile acquisitions like Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale, or nurturing young talents such as Rodrygo and Vinícius Júnior. Instead, Joselu was known for his reliable goal-scoring for smaller clubs aiming to avoid relegation.

Originally from Stuttgart, Germany, Joselu moved to Spain in his youth and started his football career at Celta Vigo. He joined Real Madrid’s reserve team early on and later played for several clubs across Germany and England, including Eintracht Frankfurt and Newcastle. He hit his stride back in the Spanish league, scoring consistently for Alaves and Espanyol, which led to his late debut with the Spanish national team at 32.

Despite his efforts, both Alaves and Espanyol were relegated, but his knack for goal-scoring caught Real Madrid’s eye. Following Espanyol’s relegation, he joined Madrid on a one-season loan, where he was expected to fill a gap left by departing stars, though not as a direct replacement for Benzema.

Joselu’s crucial moments came in the semi-final against Bayern. With Madrid trailing, he capitalized on a rare mistake by goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to score the equalizer in the 88th minute. He didn’t stop there, heading in the winning goal during stoppage time from a cross by Antonio Rüdiger.

With 17 goals in limited playtime this season, Joselu has exceeded expectations and will be a key asset for Madrid in the upcoming Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund in London.

Carlo Ancelotti, Madrid’s coach, praised Joselu, saying, “He’s a reflection of the team because he has contributed so much this season,” underscoring his significant yet unexpected impact on the team’s success.