Football
Real Madrid Won 15th Champions League Title with 2-0 Victory
Few teams have faced Real Madrid in a Champions League final with as much conviction as Borussia Dortmund did at Wembley Stadium on Saturday night. Despite their valiant efforts, the outcome was all too familiar.
A Familiar Result
After a tense and hard-fought match, Real Madrid emerged victorious with a 2-0 win, securing their record-extending 15th European Cup. Dani Carvajal’s and Vinícius Júnior’s late goals broke Dortmund’s hearts and ensured Madrid’s triumph.
Dortmund defender Ian Maatsen had a particularly rough end to the night, giving away the corner that led to Carvajal’s header and then losing possession for Vinícius’ goal minutes later. Despite their efforts, Real Madrid again celebrated at the final whistle, their fans serenading their unbeatable team.
Dortmund’s Missed Opportunities
The atmosphere inside Wembley was electric ahead of kick-off, with Dortmund’s famous ‘Yellow Wall’ in full voice, dominating the noise early on. Dortmund displayed bravery and skill, fearlessly passing out from behind and creating several early chances.
Julian Brandt had the first clear opportunity but skewed his shot wide. Niclas Füllkrug had a header saved and hit the post, while Karim Adeyemi squandered two one-on-one chances. Despite their dominance, Dortmund couldn’t convert their chances into goals.
Real Madrid Won 15th Champions League Title
Real Madrid has a history of improbable comebacks in the Champions League, often described as possessing “magic” on European nights. This match felt like a supernatural force prevented Dortmund from scoring.
Dortmund fans remained spirited, but their team couldn’t capitalize on their first-half dominance. The second half saw Real Madrid show signs of life, with a stunning save by Gregor Kobel from a Toni Kroos free-kick. However, Dortmund continued to press, with Füllkrug having another shot saved by Thibaut Courtois.
The Inevitable Happens
Then came the inevitable. Carvajal scored with a header, and Maatsen’s mistake allowed Jude Bellingham to set up Vinícius, who calmly finished over Kobel. Even as hope faded and time passed, Dortmund fans defiantly held up their scarves and sang.
They thought they had a moment to celebrate when Füllkrug scored, but the goal was ruled out for offside. Real Madrid fans chanted, “Campeones, Campeones olé, olé, olé” as Carvajal lifted the trophy.
A Night to Remember
It will be a sleepless night for players and fans for different reasons. Real Madrid extends their remarkable record, while Dortmund reflects on what could have been.