The iconic Wembley Stadium is set to host another Champions League final, this time featuring Spanish giants Real Madrid. But for Los Blancos, this isn't their first visit to the hallowed ground. Before their upcoming clash, let's rewind to their only other encounter at Wembley, a surprising defeat back in 2017.
A Lone Trip in 2017:
Unlike their opponents Borussia Dortmund, who previously played a Champions League final at Wembley in 2013, Real Madrid boasts a much shorter history with the stadium. Their sole visit occurred in November 2017, during a Champions League group stage match against Tottenham Hotspur.
A Night of Upsets:
This fixture took place while Tottenham were temporarily residing at Wembley due to ongoing stadium construction. The night witnessed a major upset, with Tottenham emerging victorious 3-1 in front of a roaring crowd of 83,000. This remains Real Madrid's only visit to Wembley to date.
Zidane's Men Falter:
Zinedine Zidane was at the helm for Real Madrid that night, but only a select few from that starting lineup are likely to feature in the upcoming final. These include current captain Nacho Fernández and midfield pillars Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos.
Dele Alli Shines:
English midfielder Dele Alli stole the show for Tottenham, bagging a brace to give them the lead. Christian Eriksen, now plying his trade for Manchester United, added another goal for the home side. Cristiano Ronaldo, then at the peak of his powers, managed a consolation goal for Real Madrid in the closing stages.
Ancelotti's Wembley Record:
While this marks Real Madrid's second visit, their manager Carlo Ancelotti boasts a more extensive Wembley experience. As former manager of Chelsea, Ancelotti has visited the stadium four times, securing three wins and facing one defeat.
Victories and a Community Shield Revenge:
Ancelotti's first Wembley outing came in 2009. His Chelsea team secured a thrilling 4-1 penalty shootout victory against Manchester United in the Community Shield after a 2-2 draw. Goalkeeper Petr Cech became a hero, saving two penalties.
Later that year, Ancelotti led Chelsea to a dominant 3-0 victory over Aston Villa in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley. This paved the way for their eventual FA Cup triumph against Portsmouth. The following year, they returned for another Community Shield, but this time, Sir Alex Ferguson's Manchester United exacted revenge with a 3-1 win.
Bellingham's Wembley Familiarity:
Interestingly, one member of the Real Madrid squad might feel right at home at Wembley – Jude Bellingham. The young English midfielder has already stepped onto the pitch there 15 times with the national team, boasting an impressive record of 12 wins, 2 draws, and just one defeat.
A Confidence Booster?
Bellingham's sole defeat at Wembley came in March 2024, when future Real Madrid player Endrick scored a late winner for Brazil. However, his most recent outing offered a confidence boost for Real Madrid fans. In a thrilling 2-2 draw with Belgium, Bellingham scored his first Wembley goal with a dramatic 95th-minute equalizer.
A Stage for History:
As Real Madrid prepares for their return to Wembley, their past offers a glimpse into the unexpected possibilities that await. Will they avenge their previous defeat and etch their name in Champions League history? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain – Wembley is ready to witness another chapter in European football's grand narrative.
Beyond History: Looking Ahead to Real Madrid's Wembley Return
While the past encounter at Wembley offers a fascinating piece of history, the upcoming Champions League final presents a fresh challenge for Real Madrid. Here are some key aspects to consider:
A Different Context:
The 2017 team under Zidane differed significantly from the current squad under Ancelotti. While Modrić, Kroos, and Fernández might offer valuable experience, the overall playing style and team dynamics have evolved. This experience could prove crucial in navigating the high-pressure atmosphere of a final.
Ancelotti's Tactical Prowess:
Ancelotti's impressive Wembley record with Chelsea highlights his tactical mastery, particularly in cup competitions. His ability to adapt his strategies to specific opponents and capitalize on Wembley's unique playing surface will be a key factor.
Bellingham's Adaptability:
Though Bellingham boasts a strong record at Wembley with the national team, adapting to the intensity of a Champions League final is a different story. Whether his experience translates into a strong performance for Real Madrid remains to be seen.
Facing a Formidable Opponent:
The true test lies in the opponent Real Madrid will face. Analyzing their strengths, weaknesses, and recent form will be vital for Ancelotti to craft a winning strategy.
A Battle of Experience and Youth:
The upcoming final is likely to be a clash between the experience of Real Madrid's seasoned veterans and the youthful energy of their opponents. How these two forces collide will be a determining factor in the outcome.
A Night for Redemption or Glory:
For Real Madrid, this match presents an opportunity for redemption after their surprising 2017 defeat. A win would solidify their dominance in European football, while a loss could leave a lingering sense of disappointment.
A Global Spectacle:
Regardless of the outcome, the Champions League final at Wembley promises to be a global spectacle. Millions of fans worldwide will tune in to witness the culmination of a season-long journey for both teams.
The Final Chapter:
The return to Wembley marks a significant chapter for Real Madrid. While the past offers valuable lessons, the team must focus on the present, drawing on their experience and adapting to the specific challenges of this upcoming final. With a strong tactical approach, effective use of individual talent, and a collective fighting spirit, Real Madrid can rewrite their Wembley story and claim European glory.
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