Real Madrid Conquer Europe Again

Most people had Liverpool marked as favourites heading into the Champions League final in Paris. They had romped their way to the showpiece event, whereas Real Madrid had to overcome multiple hurdles and scoreline deficits. But maybe their route to the final gave them the grit they required to come out on top at the Stade de France, as they secured a narrow 1-0 win and their fourteenth Champions League title.

The kick-off in Paris was delayed a couple of times due to crowd congestion. This possibly helped Liverpool during the run-up to the game as Thiago, who went off injured against Wolves on the final day of the Premier League campaign, pulled up in the warm-up. Naby Keita then looked like he could be in the mix to start, but the Spaniard proved his fitness to remain in the XI.

Many will have expected Liverpool to be the dominant force in terms of chances created and Carlo Ancelotti’s Real side to hit them on the counter-attack. And that’s what proved to be the case, especially during the first half, where Madrid failed to get a foothold in the contest for large parts. They have Thibaut Courtois to thank for making some outstanding saves, which proved to be the story of the tie. 

One of Real’s counter-attacks saw talisman Karim Benzema put the ball in the back of the Liverpool net. But, after some confusion, his strike was ruled out for offside. Ancelotti will have been the happier of the two managers going into the break, as his team was very much under the cosh. But with Benzema leading the line and Vinicius Junior always ready to pounce down Liverpool’s right, the Reds winning wasn’t a foregone conclusion.

And it was Vinicius Junior who made the telling difference after he stole in on the far post with Trent Alexander-Arnold unaware, to tap home from Federico Valverde's low cross. Liverpool had chances to assert their dominance throughout the fixture, primarily through efforts from Mo Salah. Still, they couldn't find a way past Courtois, who was in imperious form and undoubtedly the man of the match.

When the final whistle blew, it was more disappointment for Liverpool and Jurgen Klopp, from what has been a largely successful season and a case of being so close and yet so far. After a great season, they missed out on the Premier League title by a solitary point. And their excellent showing in Europe’s top club competition was undone by a single goal.

For Real Madrid, on the other hand, they arguably completed one of the best in the competition ever. They overcame the likes of Manchester City, Chelsea and Liverpool en route to lifting the trophy, showing true grit, determination and resilience throughout. They add this success to the La Liga title as they make it back to the top of European football. They’re a feared force once again.