The 2024 Champions League final, held at the iconic Wembley Stadium in London, pitted Real Madrid against Borussia Dortmund in a clash of contrasting styles and experiences. Real Madrid, the undisputed kings of European football, were seeking their record-extending 15th title, while Dortmund, against many predictions, were aiming for their second, having last tasted glory in 1997.
The first half was a story of Dortmund dominance, albeit without the crucial finishing touch. Edin Terzić’s men pressed high and disrupted Real Madrid’s usual rhythm, creating several clear-cut chances. Karim Adeyemi was a constant threat, his pace and trickery causing Dani Carvajal numerous problems. Niclas Füllkrug struck the post, and Thibaut Courtois, back in the Madrid goal after a long injury layoff, was called into action multiple times, denying Dortmund’s vibrant attack.
Real Madrid, in contrast, looked uncharacteristically disjointed. Their midfield, usually so assured, struggled to gain control, and their attacking trident of Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Jude Bellingham were largely neutralized. The halftime whistle blew with the score still locked at 0-0, leaving Dortmund the happier of the two teams, having clearly won the tactical battle.
However, the second half showcased Real Madrid’s unparalleled experience and resilience. Carlo Ancelotti’s subtle adjustments at halftime began to pay dividends. They weathered the early Dortmund storm and gradually wrestled control of the midfield. Toni Kroos, in his final club match, began to dictate the tempo, showcasing his masterful passing range.
The breakthrough came in the 74th minute. A Toni Kroos corner found Dani Carvajal, who rose highest to powerfully head the ball past Gregor Kobel. The goal visibly deflated Dortmund, who had invested so much energy into the first half. Real Madrid, sensing weakness, pressed for a second.
They found it in the 83rd minute, courtesy of Vinícius Júnior. A defensive lapse from Dortmund allowed Jude Bellingham to intercept a pass and play in the Brazilian winger, who coolly slotted the ball past Kobel. The goal effectively sealed the victory for Real Madrid.
Dortmund tried to mount a late comeback, but Real Madrid’s defense, marshaled by Antonio Rüdiger, remained resolute. The final whistle blew, confirming Real Madrid as the 2024 Champions League winners. The victory marked a fitting end to Toni Kroos’s illustrious career, and further cemented Real Madrid’s status as the undisputed kings of European football.
While Dortmund can be proud of their spirited performance and unexpected run to the final, Real Madrid’s experience and clinical finishing proved to be the decisive factors. The 2024 final will be remembered as a tale of two halves: Dortmund’s dominance in the first, and Real Madrid’s ultimate triumph in the second.