It has now been made official that on June 1, Real Madrid will go face-to-face with Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League final.
On Tuesday evening, BvB overcame the challenge of the French champions, Paris Saint-Germain, to ensure they would compete in their third-ever Champions League final. However, there was an expectation that they would be joined by Der Klassiker rivals, Bayern Munich.
Nevertheless, a recreation of the 2013 final at Wembley was not meant to be, as Real Madrid choreographed a vintage late Champions League comeback to stun their German visitors. Regardless, it was not without controversy.
With almost the final kick of the tie, Bayern believed they had found a late equaliser. Konrad Laimer had placed the ball in the back of the Real Madrid net, but the referee’s whistle had already been blown due to Noussair Mazraoui being adjudged offside.
To the frustration of those associated with Bayern, VAR was unable to intervene due to the referee’s whistle having already blown. A sickening evening for Der Rekordmeister, who also had to contend with a rare Manuel Neuer mistake, means that it will be a trophyless campaign for the Bavarians.
A dream come true
Nonetheless, it was jubilation for Real Madrid, who will face Die Schwarzgelben in the final. For Los Blancos, this is nothing new, but for a certain Jude Bellingham, this is a significantly special moment.
Speaking to DAZN after the game, the Englishman commented on facing his former side in Europe’s showpiece event:
“As a child, you dream of being in a Champions League final. A dream comes true. I’m a bit shocked today and have to let it sink in. I can’t believe it. My first final in England against Dortmund. Congratulations to them! I’m happy to see some of my old friends.”
Having to contend with Los Blancos will be a difficult task for BvB, but they cannot be ruled out. They have proven time and time again during this competition that they themselves are a force to be reckoned with, and this clash will undoubtedly make for interesting viewing come June 1.
GGFN | Will Shopland
