UEFA.com draws on the analytical skills of its expert team of journalists in London to examine the key areas that could decide Saturday’s UEFA Champions League final between Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid.
See what Dortmund reporter Matthias Rötters and our Madrid counterpart Graham Hunter think could make a difference.
Will Dortmund’s defense hold firm?
Dortmund went without a goal in two games against Paris Saint-Germain’s often prolific attack in the semi-finals. The factors behind their success are an incredibly reliable goalkeeper in Gregor Kobel, two centre-backs who have been in top form recently in Mats Hummels and Nico Sloterbeck and an aggressive team defense that starts with striker Niclas Füllkrug up front. If their rearguard works again, it could be difficult for Madrid. If not, as we saw in Dortmund’s game at Atletico Madrid, it will be difficult.
Matthias Rötters
Who gets the nod in Madrid’s goal?
The main conundrum for Madrid is, arguably, in goal. Andriy Lunin is the unsung hero of this campaign. Excellent against Leipzig in both legs, challenging in normal time, extra time and penalties against Manchester City, then crucial against Bayern. Thibaut Courtois, as long as he is fit, deserves to start because of the pecking order. Carlo Ancelotti believes the Belgian is the world’s top No1 but, having been sidelined for 95% of the season, there is a risk of starting someone who was the man of the match in Madrid’s last Champions League final two years ago in Saint-Denis, can it be a danger? Good luck with the decision Mr. Ancelotti.
Graham Hunter
Can Dortmund’s wide men cause Madrid problems?
It’s no secret that Dortmund wingers Jadon Sancho and Karim Adeyemi are fundamental weapons in BVB’s attack. If Dani Carvajal and Ferland Mendy can get in touch with the Black and Red’s classy players, they will take much of Dortmund’s attacking play. If not, these two have already proven to the competition this season just how much of a handful they can be. But Madrid’s full-backs are committed to attacking relentlessly high up the pitch. This has often been a match-winning tactic but, in this game, it is important to note that Dortmund’s wingers will have huge opportunities to probe in behind Ancelotti’s full-backs and, at least in Edin Terzic’s game plan, try to wreak havoc.
Matthias Rötters
Madrid’s midfield up to the challenge?
Madrid’s midfield is usually a big force and very possible a positive point to win here as well. But it seems highly unlikely that Aurelien Tchouaméni will be fit. This is a loss. Then there’s the news that was greeted with an outpouring of appreciation throughout the football community – Toni Kroos’ decision to retire after UEFA EURO 2024. Will this affect his mindset in any way? Is the experience of saying goodbye to ten wonderful years with Madrid in a Champions League final overwhelming? You would think, and hope, no. And for Madrid’s undisputed star of the season, Jude Bellingham, this is, however, his first Champions League final – at Wembley. Challenges galore.
Graham Hunter
Which Dortmund player will lead from the front?
With just three goals in 12 matches, Füllkrug is BVB’s top scorer in the current Champions League season. Four Madrid stars – Rodrygo, Vinícius Júnior, Joselu and Bellingham – have scored more, so the question is, will Dortmund be able to find a solution in front of goal without a classic talisman up front when things get tight? Dortmund have had 12 different scorers in the competition this season to Madrid’s eight, so perhaps a widespread goal threat can work to their advantage.
Matthias Rötters