Finally, Lisbon beckons the best two teams in Europe to its sanctuary. And for the first time, two clubs from the same city get to play in the Champions League Final. This year’s final pits Real Madrid against Atletico Madrid in what promises to be a crunchy tie.
Some actions have been etched indelibly into my memory which I’ll like to recount.
The best thought will always be the ultimate humiliation of Bayern by Real Madrid. Bayern came into the tie riding on the back of arguably Europe’s best coach – Pep Guardiola, and had a genuine chance of being the first club in the modern era to win the UCL back to back. They had won the Bundesliga a month to the end of the season and had ample time to prepare for the Champions League.
Real, on the order hand were blazing high having dispatched both Schalke and Dortmund with requiescence but always had Guardiola as their Achilles’ heel having tamed them during his spell at Barcelona. We saw some crazy counter attacking stuff there. The plans of Ancelloti was carefully executed by the players down to the letter and Real came out winners.
One other match that drove me crazy was Atletico’s win over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. It was a mixture of dogged defending, solid midfield and ruthless finishing. Mourinho was shell-shocked and devasted after the match as his plans were thwarted by the effulgent Diego Simeone.
Both finalists have conquered great teams. Real Madrid sent home 3 of Germany’s 4 representatives while Atletico put 2012 winners, Chelsea and the great Barcelona to the sword.
Atletico have been confirmed Spanish champions and will face a daunting task of killing off Real who boast a wealth of attacking talents. Ronaldo, Bale, Benzema and Di Maria will smack their lips at the thought of crucifying their old foes who snatched the La Liga from them. It’s more than a football match, it’s more than a final, it’s a fight for bragging rights and territorial control. Enough incentive to make for an interesting viewing.
24th May is the day, 6.45pm the time. Estadio Da Luz here we go!!!!!
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