Real Madrid's journey in the Champions League this season was fraught with numerous challenges. Los Blancos consistently faced tough opponents right from the preliminary rounds. Carlo Ancelotti's squad had to contend with Serie A champions Napoli early on, yet impressively, Real Madrid overcame the Partenopei in both legs. In the round of 16, they faced Germany's formidable RB Leipzig. The first leg was particularly challenging for Jude Bellingham and his teammates, but Real Madrid ultimately secured their quarter-final spot with a narrow 2-1 aggregate victory. Ancelotti acknowledged that RB Leipzig's performance posed significant difficulties.
Next, Real Madrid encountered defending champions Manchester City, who were heavily favored to advance to the semi-finals with a 64.9% probability, according to Opta media, compared to Real Madrid's 35.1%. Despite Ruben Diaz's confidence in facing the reigning champions, Real Madrid defied expectations by winning on penalties, thereby silencing their doubters.
In the semi-finals, Real Madrid faced Bayern Munich. Despite Bayern's recent struggles, their strength remained formidable. Remarkably, Real Madrid triumphed over the defending Bundesliga champions, securing their place in the final.
Real Madrid's focus ahead of the final was disrupted by news of Toni Kroos' impending retirement. The German midfielder confirmed he would hang up his boots after the Euro 2024 Cup, making the Champions League final his last match with Real Madrid. Despite his agent hinting at a possible one-year contract extension and Florentino Perez's attempts to persuade him to stay, Kroos remained resolute about retiring. Journalist Fabrizio Romano even reported that Kroos had extended his contract until 2025, but Kroos was determined to retire post-Euro Cup. He aims to crown his career by leading Real Madrid to the Champions League title, a farewell gift promised by Carlo Ancelotti.
The Santiago Bernabeu faithful were further saddened by rumors of Nacho Fernandez's departure. According to Marca, the Real Madrid captain is expected to move to MLS, with potential links to Xabi Alonso's Bayer Leverkusen. Additionally, Luka Modric is rumored to be leaving at the season's end, though the Croatian appears more inclined to stay for another season.
Carlo Ancelotti's promise of triumph was fulfilled as Real Madrid clinched the championship title with a decisive 2-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League Final. The match experienced a brief halt just 30 seconds in due to a spectator intrusion, quickly handled by security. Both teams played aggressively, but Real Madrid dominated with 64% ball possession. Borussia Dortmund's intense pressing led to a near goal in the 22nd minute when Ian Maatsen intercepted the ball and passed to Nicklas Fullkrug, whose shot hit the crossbar. Despite Dortmund's quick counterattacks, Thibaut Courtois made several crucial saves.
In the second half, Real Madrid launched a series of dangerous attacks. Dani Carvajal scored the opening goal, capitalizing on a pass from Toni Kroos, which dampened Dortmund's fighting spirit. Nine minutes later, Vinicius Junior doubled the lead with a goal assisted by Jude Bellingham. This victory secured Real Madrid's 15th Champions League title, more than twice the tally of any other European club. Remarkably, Real Madrid went unbeaten from the preliminary round to the final, a first in their history as noted by Opta.
Real Madrid's success this season is a testament to the vital contributions of every player across the field. Each line, from the goalkeeper to the forwards, executed their roles exceptionally well. Thibaut Courtois, returning from injury, exemplified this by delivering a stellar performance with three crucial saves, solidifying Real Madrid's defense. Dani Carvajal also played a pivotal role, scoring a goal and earning the Man of the Match title. UEFA praised the 32-year-old for his dynamic play, noting his bravery in attack and quick defensive transitions.
Vinicius Junior set a special record with his goal, becoming a specialist in scoring in final matches. He had previously netted a decisive goal in the 2022 Champions League final against Liverpool. This achievement was highlighted by his compatriot, Neymar Junior, who lauded Vinicius and Rodrygo as the world's best strikers.
🚨 Neymar on IG: “Congrats my boys. The best 2 in the world.” pic.twitter.com/Ukq4ZD30OQ
— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) June 1, 2024
Toni Kroos also shone in his final match for Real Madrid, delivering a Spartan performance and contributing an assist. His brilliance capped off a career-defining game, underscoring the collective effort behind Real Madrid's glory this season.
Carlo Ancelotti set an astonishing record by guiding Real Madrid to another Champions League victory. Don Carletto became the first coach to win five Champions League titles. Ancelotti's impressive record includes two titles with AC Milan and three with Real Madrid, making it difficult for Pep Guardiola, who has won three titles with two different clubs, to catch up.
Jose Mourinho praised Ancelotti as a Champions League specialist, noting that Don Carletto doesn't make many promises but excels at understanding various situations. Ancelotti described winning the title as a dream come true, acknowledging the challenge posed by Borussia Dortmund and their 27-year title drought.
Ancelotti emphasized that winning the Champions League is a tradition for Real Madrid that must be upheld. He expressed gratitude to the players and club officials, acknowledging their hard work throughout the season. It's no surprise that Real Madrid has once again asserted itself as the king of Europe.
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