The 2024 UEFA Champions League final was a night of contrasting emotions as Real Madrid secured their record-extending 15th title with a 2-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley Stadium on June 1st, 2024. Despite a valiant effort, Dortmund’s dream of continental glory fell just short.
Champions League Match Highlights:
- The opening half of the Champions League Final was a cagey affair with neither side managing to break the deadlock. Dortmund, playing with a high defensive line, frustrated Real Madrid’s attack.
- The second half of the Champions League Final saw the tempo increase, with both teams creating chances. However, it was Real Madrid who struck the decisive blow in the 74th minute. Dani Carvajal, marauding down the right flank, unleashed a powerful shot that beat Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel.
- Just nine minutes later, the Champions League Final was effectively put to bed. Vinicius Jr., a constant threat throughout the match, latched onto a Jude Bellingham through ball and slotted the ball past Kobel to make it 2-0.
Statistics:
- The match was an even contest statistically. Both teams had 13 shots, with Real Madrid enjoying the majority of
- Possession (58% to Dortmund’s 42%).
- Dortmund committed more fouls (12) compared to Real Madrid’s (8).
Player Ratings:
Real Madrid:
- Thibaut Courtois (8/10): Made some crucial saves to keep Dortmund at bay.
- Nacho (7.5/10): Solid at the back, made some important tackles.
- Antonio Rüdiger (8/10): A rock in central defence, dominated the aerial duels.
- Ferland Mendy (7/10): Kept Brandt quiet for most of the game.
- Dani Carvajal (8.5/10): Scored a crucial opening goal and was defensively sound. (Man of the Match)
- Toni Kroos (7.5/10): Controlled the midfield, broke up Dortmund’s attacks effectively.
- Jude Bellingham (8/10): Showed his maturity in the middle of the park, caused problems for Dortmund with his dribbling.
- Luka Modrić (7.5/10): Dictated the tempo of the game, displayed his usual creativity.
- Federico Valverde (7/10): Worked tirelessly on the right flank, provided good crosses.
- Vinicius Jr. (8/10): Scored a vital second goal, a constant threat with his pace.
Borussia Dortmund:
- Gregor Kobel (7/10): Made some good saves, couldn’t do much about the goals.
- Mats Hummels (7/10): Experienced presence at the back, made some crucial blocks.
- Nico Schlotterbeck (6.5/10): Struggled against Vinicius Jr.’s pace at times.
- Ian Maatsen (6.5/10): Got caught out defensively on a few occasions.
- Julian Ryerson (6/10): Didn’t offer much going forward.
- Emre Can (6.5/10): Put in a decent shift in midfield, lacked creativity.
- Marcel Sabitzer (6/10): Introduced as a substitute but couldn’t make a significant impact.
- Jordan Sancho (6/10): Lively on the left wing, but the final product was missing.
- Julian Brandt (6/10): Frustrated by Mendy’s defending, couldn’t get into the game.
- Karim Adeyemi (6/10): Showed glimpses of his talent but lacked experience.
- Donyell Malen (5.5/10): Quiet night for the Dutch forward due to him coming on as a substitute.
Post-Match Reaction:
Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti was delighted with his team’s performance. “This is a special night for Real Madrid. We showed our fighting spirit and tactical discipline throughout the tournament. I’m particularly happy for Vinicius Jr. and Jude Bellingham, who put in outstanding performances,” Ancelotti remarked.
Bellingham, who impressed in the centre of the park for Real Madrid, spoke about his emotions after winning the Champions League. “It’s a dream come true to win the Champions League trophy with Real Madrid. We worked hard all season, and this is the reward for our efforts,” he said.
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