Real Madrid became the UEFA Champions League holders for the record-extending 15th time as they beat Borussia Dortmund 2-0 in the final at the Wembley Stadium in London on Saturday, June 1. Dortmund had their chances, especially in the first half but some solid defence from Real Madrid and later the attack in the second half helped the La Liga side win for the second time in three seasons as the legendary Toni Kroos bowed out from club football on a title-winning note.
Karim Adeyemi and Fullkrug, especially had the opportunity to give Dortmund a lead in the first half but missed their chances. Real Madrid were slow to get up and running in their game, however, they managed to stretch Dortmund to a goalless first half. A much-better planned Real Madrid was on show in the second half as they attacked a bit more and kept Dortmund on tenterhooks.
The goalless match finally saw open its account with Dani Carvajal converting Toni Kroos' corner with an effective header to get the ball into the nets in the 74th minute. Less than 10 minutes later, Vinicius Junior fired Jude Bellingham's pass to make it 2-0 and the writing was on the wall.
This was Carvajal's sixth UCL title as it was for Luka Modric, Kroos and Nacho while for the manager Carlo Ancelotti, it was his fifth and third with Madrid. Speaking after the win, Carvajal said, "I don't know what to say, just tremendous happiness. We knew it would be a tough game, and the first half they were very superior but we got out alive. But we knew our moment would come, and it did, and we have the 15th (Champions League title)."
"I have always dreamed of playing in these games.You go through life and there are so many people who say you cannot do things. I was alright until I've seen my mum and dad's face there. My little brother is there and I'm trying to be a role model for him. I cannot put it into words. The best night of my life," said Jude Bellingham as Madrid got to their 15th.
