Glorious Real Madrid comebacks under Zidane

Real Madrid vs. Sporting Lisbon: September 14th, 2016 – Champions League

It was the first group-stage fixture for the defending champions, and it was at home. It was also a special night for Ronaldo since he was up against his former team. Such occasions usually bring out the best in him, and that night was no different.

Sporting Lisbon managed to hold on to their narrow 1-0 lead for 89 minutes, with Real Madrid squandering multiple chances.

When Sporting were already half-way to celebrating, Ronaldo decided that it was not to be. He equalized in the 89th minute with a wicked free-kick, breaking Sporting’s heart while doing so. His celebration was minimal, almost apologetic. But the Bernabéu exploded, as did the rest of the team.

When Sporting thought they will have to make do with 1 point, Alvaro Morata headed home a pin-point James cross in the 94th minute, just a few seconds before the final whistle. Sporting fans and players could not believe what happened – Madrid had literally snatched victory from the jaws of defeat.

They proved what has been a long standing saying – 90 minutes at the Bernabéu is a very long time.