2024 UEFA Champions League Final: Real Madrid Crowned Champions with 2-0 Victory over Borussia Dortmund

On June 1, 2024, Real Madrid secured their record-extending 15th UEFA Champions League title with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley Stadium in London. The Spanish giants demonstrated their experience and resilience to overcome a spirited Dortmund side, with goals from Dani Carvajal and Vinicius Junior proving decisive.

Match Summary

The first half was marked by Dortmund's dominance. They created several promising opportunities but failed to convert them into goals. Karim Adeyemi missed a golden chance after rounding Thibaut Courtois, only to be denied by a last-ditch tackle from Dani Carvajal. Niclas Fullkrug also hit the post, leaving Dortmund frustrated at the break.

In the second half, Real Madrid emerged as a different team, making crucial tactical adjustments that allowed them to gain control of the game. The breakthrough came in the 74th minute when Dani Carvajal scored with a glancing header from a corner kick delivered by Toni Kroos. This goal shifted the momentum in favour of Real Madrid and dealt a significant blow to Dortmund's morale.

The victory was sealed in the 83rd minute when Vinicius Junior capitalized on a defensive error by Ian Maatsen, scoring Real Madrid's second goal with an assist from Jude Bellingham. Despite a late disallowed goal for offside, Dortmund could not find a way back into the game, and Real Madrid held on for a deserved victory.

Key Performances

Dani Carvajal was Real Madrid's standout performer, scoring the crucial opening goal and making a vital defensive intervention to deny Karim Adeyemi in the first half. The right-back received high ratings across various reports, ranging from 8-9/10, for his all-around display.

Vinicius Junior, who scored the second goal and posed a constant threat to Dortmund's defence, also received praise, with ratings ranging from 7 to 8/10. Thibaut Courtois, despite not being heavily involved throughout the Champions League campaign, made important saves to keep a clean sheet and was rated 7 to 8/10.

For Borussia Dortmund, Julian Brandt stood out for his creativity and vision in the final third, earning ratings between 6 and 8/10. Mats Hummels also received recognition for his leadership and crucial defensive interventions, with ratings ranging from 6 to 8/10.

Tactical Analysis

Real Madrid's second-half improvement was largely due to Carlo Ancelotti's tactical adjustments. The Italian manager made changes that allowed his team to gain a foothold in midfield and assert more control over the game. The introduction of Eduardo Camavinga added energy and combativeness to the midfield, while Federico Valverde's work rate and linking play helped create chances for the forwards.

Despite their first-half dominance, Dortmund struggled to maintain their intensity and precision in the second half. Edin Terzic's side failed to capitalize on their early opportunities, ultimately costing them the game. The defensive lapse that led to Vinicius Junior's goal highlighted the importance of concentration and discipline at the highest level.

Conclusion

Real Madrid's victory in the 2024 UEFA Champions League final showcased their big-game experience, tactical flexibility, and individual brilliance. The Spanish giants demonstrated their ability to weather the storm and seize key moments, a hallmark of their success in recent years.

The defeat will be a bitter pill for Borussia Dortmund, particularly given their impressive first-half performance. However, the German side can take pride in their journey to the final and the promising young talents in their squad, such as Jude Bellingham and Karim Adeyemi.

As Real Madrid celebrates their historic 15th Champions League title, the football world again marvels at their enduring success and the legacy of Carlo Ancelotti, who further cemented his status as one of the greatest managers ever.