The 2024 UEFA Champions League final showcased a night of high drama as Real Madrid clinched their record-breaking 15th title with a 2-0 triumph over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley Stadium on June 1, 2024. Despite a valiant effort, Dortmund’s quest for European glory ended in disappointment.
Champions League Final Match Highlights
- First Half: The initial half of the Champions League was marked by caution from both teams, with neither side able to find the back of the net. Dortmund’s high defensive line effectively neutralized Real Madrid’s attacking threats.
- Second Half: The pace quickened in the last 45 of the Champions League Final, and both teams created scoring opportunities. Real Madrid made the breakthrough in the 74th minute when Dani Carvajal, advancing down the right wing, unleashed a powerful shot that Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel couldn’t stop.
- Second Goal: The Champions League Final was sealed just nine minutes later. Vinicius Jr., a constant menace throughout the game, latched onto a through ball and expertly finished past Kobel to secure a 2-0 victory.
Statistics
- Shots: Both teams registered 13 shots each.
- Possession: Real Madrid held the advantage with 58% possession compared to Dortmund’s 42%.
- Fouls: Dortmund committed 12 fouls, while Real Madrid committed 8.
Player Ratings
Real Madrid
- Thibaut Courtois (8/10): Made crucial saves to maintain the clean sheet.
- Nacho (7.5/10): Strong defensive performance, making key tackles.
- Antonio Rüdiger (8/10): Dominated in central defence and won aerial battles.
- Ferland Mendy (7/10): Effectively contained Julian Brandt.
- Dani Carvajal (8.5/10): Scored the opening goal and was defensively solid. Man of the Match.
- Toni Kroos (7.5/10): Controlled the midfield and disrupted Dortmund’s play.
- Jude Bellingham (8/10): Displayed maturity and caused problems with his dribbling.
- Luka Modrić (7.5/10): Controlled the game’s tempo and showed creativity.
- Federico Valverde (7/10): Worked hard on the right, providing quality crosses.
- Vinicius Jr. (8/10): Scored the second goal and consistently threatened with his speed.
Borussia Dortmund
- Gregor Kobel (7/10): Made several important saves, helpless against the goals.
- Mats Hummels (7/10): Provided an experienced presence and crucial blocks.
- Nico Schlotterbeck (6.5/10): Had difficulty dealing with Vinicius Jr.’s pace.
- Ian Maatsen (6.5/10): Was caught out defensively on multiple occasions.
- Julian Ryerson (6/10): Offered little going forward.
- Emre Can (6.5/10): Worked hard in midfield but lacked creativity.
- Marcel Sabitzer (6/10): Came on as a substitute without significant impact.
- Jadon Sancho (6/10): Energetic on the left wing but lacked end product.
- Julian Brandt (6/10): Struggled to make an impact against Mendy’s defence.
- Karim Adeyemi (6/10): Showed flashes of potential but was inexperienced.
- Donyell Malen (5.5/10): Had a quiet game after coming on as a substitute.
Post-Match Reaction
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti expressed his delight with the team’s performance. “This is a historic night for Real Madrid. We demonstrated our resilience and tactical discipline throughout the tournament. I’m especially pleased with Vinicius Jr. and Jude Bellingham, who were outstanding tonight,” Ancelotti said.
Jude Bellingham, who impressed in midfield, shared his emotions after lifting the trophy. “Winning the Champions League with Real Madrid is a dream come true. We’ve worked incredibly hard all season, and this victory is the ultimate reward,” he stated.
Conclusion
Despite Dortmund’s spirited efforts and solid defensive strategy, Real Madrid’s experience and clinical finishing secured their historic 15th Champions League title. The match highlighted the resilience and quality of both teams, with Real Madrid ultimately emerging victorious on an unforgettable night at Wembley Stadium.
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