Borussia Dortmund Stuns Real Madrid in Champions League Semi-Final

4-1 Victory Gives Dortmund Advantage Heading into Second Leg

Dortmund, Germany - April 24, 2013

Borussia Dortmund pulled off a stunning 4-1 victory over Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final clash on Wednesday night. Robert Lewandowski was the star of the show, scoring four goals for the German side to give them a commanding lead heading into the second leg next week.

Madrid, who were looking to reach their third consecutive Champions League final, got off to a bright start and took the lead through Karim Benzema in the 20th minute. However, Dortmund hit back almost immediately, with Lewandowski equalizing just two minutes later. The Polish striker then added two more goals before halftime to give Dortmund a 3-1 lead.

Real Madrid came out strongly in the second half, but they were unable to find a way past Dortmund's resolute defense. Lewandowski completed his hat-trick in the 66th minute to seal the victory for the German side.

The result leaves Dortmund in a strong position heading into the second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu next Wednesday. Madrid will need to score at least three goals to progress, while Dortmund can afford to lose by one goal and still advance to the final.