Real Madrid secured a record-extending 14th European Cup triumph with a 1-0 victory over Liverpool in Paris, cementing Carlo Ancelotti's status as the most decorated coach in the competition's history.
The Spanish champions overcame multiple hurdles to reach the final, including dramatic comebacks against Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Manchester City at the Santiago Bernabeu. The Paris showdown faced delays due to security issues outside the Stade de France, but Ancelotti's experience guided Madrid through the chaos.
Ancelotti became the first manager to win four Champions League titles, surpassing Bob Paisley's three European Cups and Zinedine Zidane's three consecutive wins with Real Madrid between 2016 and 2018. "I am a record man," he said, reflecting on his achievement. "I'm pleased to have won the Champions League four times, but I am even more thrilled to have come back to Madrid and had such a spectacular season."
The final itself was marked by controversy, including a disputed offside call against Karim Benzema. Despite the challenges, Ancelotti remained composed, contrasting with the frustration of other managers. His tactical decisions, including using stoppage-time substitutions, proved decisive in securing the victory.
Madrid's path to glory was complicated by Kylian Mbappe's decision to stay at Paris Saint-Germain, which raised questions about Vinicius Junior's future. However, the 21-year-old Brazilian delivered the winning goal in the 59th minute, capitalizing on Fede Valverde's cross. Thibaut Courtois' standout performance, including a crucial save against Mohamed Salah, further highlighted Madrid's resilience.
Ancelotti's success completes a historic season, as he became the first manager to win titles in Europe's top five leagues. His 2014 Champions League win with Madrid and subsequent triumphs with AC Milan, Chelsea, PSG, and Bayern Munich solidify his legacy. The victory also marks a personal redemption after his 2005 loss to Liverpool in a penalty shootout as an AC Milan coach.
