UEFA Champions League Final Preview - Real Madrid vs Borussia Dortmund

Road to the Final

Real Madrid navigated through the group stages with ease, securing six wins out of six in Group C. They faced Braga, Napoli, and Union Berlin, scoring 16 goals while conceding only seven. This performance demonstrated their attacking prowess and solid defence. Madrid’s journey through the knockout stages was marked by narrow victories and dramatic moments. They edged past RB Leipzig with a 2-1 aggregate score in the Round of 16. Their quarterfinal encounter with Manchester City was a nail-biter, ending in a 4-4 draw, with Madrid advancing through a penalty shootout. The semifinal against Bayern Munich was no less thrilling, as substitute Joselu scored two late goals to secure a 2-1 victory and a 4-3 aggregate win.

Borussia Dortmund’s path to the final was equally remarkable, albeit different in style. Emerging as Group F winners, they managed crucial victories against Newcastle United, Paris Saint-Germain, and AC Milan. Dortmund’s group stage campaign was characterized by defensive solidity, conceding only four goals while scoring seven. In the knockout stages, Dortmund first overcame PSV Eindhoven with a 3-1 aggregate score. This was followed by a high-scoring quarterfinal against Atlético Madrid, ending 5-4 in Dortmund’s favour. Their semifinal victory over PSG was achieved with two 1-0 wins, underscoring their defensive discipline.

Who Has the Edge?

Real Madrid enters the final as favourites, a status they often hold in such matches. Their history in the competition is unparalleled, with this being their sixth final appearance in 11 years, having won the previous five. Madrid’s pedigree is further highlighted by the fact that they haven’t lost a Champions League final since 1981. This contrasts sharply with Dortmund, who have only one Champions League title to their name, won in 1997. Their other final appearance ended in defeat against Bayern Munich at Wembley in 2013.

Madrid’s squad boasts superstars such as Jude Bellingham and Vinícius Júnior, alongside experienced players like Toni Kroos and Antonio Rüdiger. In contrast, Dortmund relies on a blend of youth and experience. Julian Brandt, Mats Hummels, and Marco Reus provide leadership, while loan signings Jadon Sancho and Ian Maatsen, and the astute acquisition of Marcel Sabitzer, add quality and depth.

Team Strengths and Weaknesses

Real Madrid’s attack is formidable, having scored 26 goals in the competition, second only to Manchester City’s 28. Vinícius, Rodrygo, and Joselu have each netted five times, showcasing their attacking depth. The midfield, orchestrated by Kroos, Camavinga, and Valverde, offers control and creativity. Defensively, Rüdiger has been a standout performer, though Madrid has shown vulnerability, conceding eight goals in the knockout stages. Ancelotti faces a key decision regarding his goalkeeper, with Thibaut Courtois returning from injury and Andriy Lunin having been crucial in the semifinal.

Dortmund’s strengths lie in their work rate and defensive organisation. They lead UEFA stats in tackles, balls recovered, and clearances, with six clean sheets to their name. This defensive solidity has been vital to their success. However, their attack has been less prolific, with Niclas Füllkrug their top scorer with three goals. Dortmund’s challenge will be to create opportunities if Madrid takes the lead.

Key Players and Battles

Jude Bellingham, who moved from Dortmund to Madrid for €103 million, has been pivotal for Real, scoring 22 goals and providing 10 assists this season. His performance will be crucial in the final. Rüdiger’s defensive prowess and Kroos’s midfield control are also key for Madrid. Vinícius’s pace and skill pose a significant threat to any defence.

For Dortmund, Hummels’s experience and defensive acumen will be critical. Brandt’s creativity and Sabitzer’s energy in midfield are vital to their chances. Füllkrug’s battle with Rüdiger promises to be a fascinating sub-plot. Sancho, revitalised at Dortmund, offers an unpredictable attacking threat.

A Dream Ending

Both teams have players with personal stories that could add a fairy-tale element to their triumph. For Dortmund, Sancho’s return to form after a troubled stint at Manchester United is notable. Loaned back to Dortmund in January, he has the chance to end his season with a Champions League medal, a remarkable turnaround from training alone at United.

In Madrid’s camp, Joselu’s story is equally compelling. Two years ago, he watched Madrid win the Champions League as a fan. Now, after scoring crucial goals in the semifinal, he stands on the brink of glory. His journey from Espanyol to potentially lifting the trophy with Madrid is nothing short of inspirational.

As the final approaches, anticipation builds. Real Madrid seeks to extend their dominance in European football, while Borussia Dortmund aims to defy the odds and write a new chapter in their history. Both teams have navigated challenging paths to reach Wembley, and the stage is set for a memorable encounter.

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