t was another high-octane Champions League thriller when SC Magdeburg and FC Barcelona clashed in the semifinal. Just like in their epic duel two years ago – which ended 31–31 after regular time – it was Magdeburg who came out on top. This time, Tim Hornke became the hero, scoring the game-winner in the final second: 31–30.
Barcelona, winners of three of the last four Champions League titles, looked in control for much of the match. They dictated the tempo early, and after just six minutes held a 5–4 lead with Dika Mem scoring four goals on four attempts. Playmaker Domen Makuc also had a strong start, impressing with both goals and assists. Magdeburg were forced to call a timeout trailing 9–12 after just under 20 minutes.
Despite Barcelona’s strong first half – and despite Magdeburg star Gisli Kristjansson playing with a dislocated shoulder – the German side never let go. After chasing for the entire half, they equalized at 18–18 just before the break, scoring five of the last six goals of the period.
Chaotic second half
Barcelona once again pulled ahead early in the second half, stretching the lead to 24–21. Dika Mem, who had 7 goals on 8 shots, was rested briefly, but the Spaniards still looked sharp. That’s when Magdeburg keeper Nikola Portner stepped up with a pair of key saves, and Omar Ingi Magnusson tied the game at 24–24. Shortly after, Magnusson gave Magdeburg their first lead of the match – after 46 minutes.
Barcelona suffered a major blow moments later when Mem left the court with a suspected calf injury. Still, the Spanish champions managed to go back up 29–27.
But Magdeburg refused to quit. With five minutes left, it was 29–29. Portner made another save, and Magdeburg had the chance to take the lead from the penalty line – but Barca goalkeeper Emil Nielsen denied Magnusson.
Swedish internationals Oscar Bergendahl and Albin Lagergren were key contributors for Magdeburg. Bergendahl delivered a brilliant performance as the pivot, while Lagergren impressed in limited minutes.
Then came a chaotic finish: Carlsbogård was shown a red card after hitting Felix Claar in the face, and seconds later Aitor Arino received another red – for a nearly identical incident. Suddenly, Barcelona were down two players.
Tim Hornke tied it at 30–30 with just over a minute to go. After a final timeout with ten seconds left, Magdeburg had one last chance – and Hornke delivered again, scoring the winner on the buzzer.
Magdeburg are now through to the Champions League final, where they’ll face Füchse Berlin.