Top 10 Reasons Why Dortmund Will Defeat Madrid and Win the Champions League Final
Borussia has stepped on the finals for the first time in 11 years as the Borussen Schwarzgelben are looking at another clear shot at the Champions League title following their 1997 win where they take on UEFA Champions League legend and 14-time title winner Real Madrid. Here are 10 reasons why on Saturday, June 1, there’s a peculiar chance of Dortmund upsetting Madrid, robbing them of the title at Wembley Stadium. Borussia, the underdogs, carry incredible odds with their victory on Betway, and we once more look up to Marco Reus in the hopes that this stadium will not repeat the European heartbreak of 2013.
1. A Smooth European Run Through the League
Borussia Dortmund has made an impressive run to the Champions League final, despite falling into the "Death Group" alongside PSG, Newcastle United, and AC Milan, they still secured first place with 11 points.
2. Every win was earned; none of them was coincidental
In the round of 16, Dortmund faced PSV and secured a 3-1 win, some might say they got lucky. Then again in the semi-finals against PSG, they achieved a 2-0 victory with great defensive displays against a star-studded attacking line.
3. Coach With a Strategic Vision
The appointment of Edin Terzi? has been a crucial factor in their lineup and ultimate success. His main strength lies in his ability to set different styles of football for his team. Under his guidance, Dortmund can be both an attacking team with five goals against opponents and an organised defence with counterattacks.
4. The Right Appointment for Goalkeeper
Since Roman Weidenfeller's retirement, Borussia Dortmund had a goalkeeping shortage, which prompted the team to bring in Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel. Kobel has amazing Champions League stats, including six clean sheets, 42 saves, and an 84% save rate.
5. Borussia’s Defence: The Yellow Wall
Mats Hummels, a 35-year-old center-back, believes they can win the title. He was named the player of the match in both semi-finals and serves as the roster's wise old man, pushing the younger players. The tactics employed by Edin Terzi? have lifted Dortmund's defence, and his use of recently signed loanee Ian Maatsen has reinforced the defence as he closes gaps when fighting off counterattacks which is Real Madrid’s special feat.
6. Key Players and Transfers Boosting Dortmund's Success
The winter transfer window saw two signings, Yan Maatson and Jadon Sancho which was the turning point for the team. While Sancho revitalised his career within a season, he made 12 successful dribbling attempts against PSG, only Messi has more in the Semis. Maatson filled in at left-back. Since February, Karim Adeyemi—a vital player on both offensive wings—has grown into a crucial chance creator.
7. Borussia’s Strong Attacking Midfielders
Marcel Sabitzer and Julian Brandt are skillful passers and shooters from long-range in the midfield. And we saw Sabitzer's goal from outside the box and it proved to be the difference versus Atletico Madrid.
An additional special mention goes to 31-year-old attacker Niclas Füllkrug, who scored goals against PSG and Atletico Madrid in his first Champions League season. In the championship game, Real Madrid's defence will be tested by Füllkrug's physical makeup and scoring prowess.
8. This is Marco Reus’s Last Champions League
Marco Reus, the 12-year-old living legend, has announced his retirement from Dortmund. It's heartbreaking and motivating at the same time for his teammates to win together for the last time. He already has 2 goals and an assist this Champions League. Reus is now focused on making history in his final game for Borussia Dortmund by leading the club to their first UEFA Champions League title after 1997.
9. The Wembley Factor: Breaking the Curse
Borussia Dortmund will play the finals in Wembley, reminiscent of their biggest European heartbreak in the 2013 UEFA Champions League final against Bayern Munich. Dortmund will face the 14-time champions and the match is expected to exorcise decade-long demons from their past loss. The match will definitely be a memorable experience for Dortmund fans.
10. The Attack: Reus-Adeyemi-Füllkrug Brilliance
It might be surprising but Adeyemi is one of the fastest players in the Bundesliga if not the whole of Europe.
And since the Champions League finals recently have been dominated by some individual moments of brilliance, like the last four finals. Mostly 1-0 victories, with players like Kingsley Coman, Kai Havertz, Vinícius Júnior, and Rodri scoring decisive goals. Adeyemi has the potential to create such moments and pull Dortmund through.
Conclusion
Real Madrid’s midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni is set to miss the finals due to an injury and Dortmund has a chance and that’s all that matters for the fans, even though Real Madrid is the clear favourite and has a strong Champions League record. They could cause an upset if they can play strong defence, manage the midfield, and stop Madrid’s famous counter-play.