They said it wouldn't happen. Critics scoffed, pundits pontificated about a changing of the guard. But here we are, the dust settling on the Wembley turf, the echo of the "Hala Madrid" chants still lingering in the salty air, and Real Madrid, those relentless Galacticos, have done it again.
A Night of Experience Over Youth
Dortmund, vibrant and pulsating with youthful energy, came out swinging. Bellingham, a comet streaking across the night sky, was a constant menace in midfield. His audacious flicks and pirouettes had the Bernabéu faithful on edge, a collective sigh escaping their lips every time he danced past a white shirt. But experience, as it so often does in these continental showdowns, proved the ultimate weapon.
Carvajal's Redemption Song & Vinicius Jr.'s Killer Instinct
Carvajal, once a liability in recent outings, found his defensive mojo. His crunching tackles and well-timed interceptions snuffed out Dortmund's attacks just as they threatened to ignite. Then, in the 74th minute, came the moment that swung the tie decisively. Carvajal, surging down the right flank, unleashed a cross that found the head of Vinicius Jr. The young Brazilian, criticized for his finishing in the past, displayed the killer instinct of a seasoned predator, burying the ball past a hapless Bürki.
Dortmund's Missed Opportunities Haunt Them
Dortmund, for all their brilliance, lacked the clinical edge in front of goal. Reus, usually so reliable, spurned a couple of gilt-edged chances, his frustrations evident in his increasingly wayward passes. Haaland, a one-man wrecking crew for most of the season, was uncharacteristically subdued, well marshaled by the wily Alaba and the ever-reliable Militão.
Courtois: The Impassable Wall
And then there was Courtois. An immovable object in the Real Madrid goal, the Belgian giant thwarted every Dortmund attack that found its way past the resolute backline. His sprawling save to deny Bellingham a certain goal in the second half was a turning point, a moment that cemented his status as one of the finest goalkeepers in the world.
A Fitting End for Ancelotti: La Decimoquinta
The final whistle blew, confetti rained down on the jubilant Real Madrid players, and Carlo Ancelotti, the man with the Midas touch in European competition, etched his name even deeper into Champions League folklore. La Decimoquinta – the fifteenth Champions League title for Real Madrid – a testament to their unwavering dedication to this competition, a competition they have truly made their own.
Dortmund, heartbroken but not broken, can take solace in the fact that they pushed the mighty Real Madrid to the limit.Bellingham, a star in the making, has announced himself on the biggest stage. But for now, the night belongs to Los Blancos, the undisputed kings of Europe.