Real Madrid were crowned champions of Europe for a record-breaking 14th time after defeating Liverpool in the 2021-22 Champions League final.Liverpool were looking to complete a cup treble after missing out on the Premier League title to Manchester City last weekend, but it’s the Spanish giants who lift club football’s most prestigious trophy yet again.Vinicius Jr scored the only goal of the game midway through the second half to leave Liverpool and their supporters heartbroken, while Thibaut Courtois was unbeatable in the Madrid goal.On a night that should have only been remembered for events on the pitch, though, there were chaotic scenes before kick-off outside the stadium prior to kick-off, which was delayed for 36 minutes.Fans were filmed being tear gassed and pepper sprayed as the situation became dangerous and very scary for all those involved.

What happened in the first half of the Champions League final?

In a repeat of the 2018 Champions League final, which Real Madrid won 3-1 in Kiev, Liverpool went into this year’s end-of-season finale as the favourites.

But Madrid - who defeated Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea and Manchester City en route to this season’s final - have proved time and again that the Champions League is *their* competition.

Only a fool would dare write off Carlo Ancelotti’s side, who were crowned 2021-22 La Liga winners last month.

Carlo Ancelotti UCL final

PARIS, FRANCE - MAY 28: Carlo Ancelotti, Head Coach of Real Madrid reacts during the UEFA Champions League final match between Liverpool FC and Real Madrid at Stade de France on May 28, 2022 in Paris, France. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

After a considerable delay to kick-off due to the problems outside the stadium, Jurgen Klopp’s side dominated the early stages of the match with six attempts on goal during the opening 22 minutes, forcing Courtois to make two top saves from Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane in the process.

There was controversy shortly before half-time when Karim Benzema had a goal ruled out for offside.

The initial decision stood following a lengthy VAR review, to the confusion of many.

Vinicius Jr broke the deadlock

But Real Madrid were 1-0 up by the hour-mark thanks to Vinicius, who tucked home Fede Valverde’s cross after being left open at the back post.

Thibaut Courtois was outstanding for Real Madrid

The brilliant Courtois pulled off another couple of important saves for Madrid as Liverpool threatened to respond immediately.

The Belgium international was arguably the standout player on the pitch and it may have been a very different story if Real Madrid had another 'keeper in goal.

Liverpool couldn't find a way past Courtois, who cemented his status as a Real Madrid legend on a night that the club won their 14th European Cup.

Champions League final - Reaction (Football Terrace)

QUIZ: How many of these Champions League icons can you name?