Liverpool beaten in Champions League final as Thibaut Courtois stars for Real Madrid
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.
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.
Thibaut Courtois with an outrageous save to deny Sadio Mané! 🤯#UCLfinal pic.twitter.com/RjMFEVyra9
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) May 28, 2022
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.
Karim Benzema’s opener is ruled out for offside! ❌
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) May 28, 2022
What do you make of this decision? 🤔#UCLfinal pic.twitter.com/dnez8spmJA
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.
REAL MADRID LEAD! 🔥
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) May 28, 2022
Vinícius Júnior steals in at the back post to tap home from close range ⚽️#UCLfinal pic.twitter.com/owgAzrA75V
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.
It’s not just tonight. Courtois’ saves this whole season have been simply incredible. ⭐️🇧🇪 #UCLFinal
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 28, 2022
One of the most underrated players in the world. He really makes the difference, like a top striker. pic.twitter.com/BKbNSYqVRz
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.
Stop it, Thibaut Courtois! 🥵
— Football on BT Sport (@btsportfootball) May 28, 2022
Joke of a save! #UCLfinal pic.twitter.com/3KunsBBN9G
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?