The stage is set for an electrifying clash as Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid prepare to battle for European supremacy in the 2024 Champions League final at Wembley Stadium. This showdown promises more than just silverware—it’s a narrative of redemption, tactical brilliance, and star power. Here’s everything you need to know, analyzed through the lens of Crickex expert insights.
Road to Wembley: How Both Teams Defied the Odds
Dortmund’s Defensive Masterclass
Edin Terzić’s side silenced critics with a disciplined 2-0 aggregate win over PSG, showcasing a defensive solidity rarely associated with the Bundesliga outfit. The 1-0 victories in both legs were built on:
- Compact low block: Mats Hummels’ leadership and Nico Schlotterbeck’s anticipation neutralized Kylian Mbappé.
- Counterattacking precision: Karim Adeyemi’s pace and Julian Brandt’s creativity exploited PSG’s high line.
Real Madrid’s Late-Game Sorcery
Carlo Ancelotti’s men delivered another Remontada classic, overturning a 2-1 deficit against Bayern Munich with Joselu’s 88th-minute heroics. Key factors:
- Midfield dominance: Toni Kroos and Eduardo Camavinga controlled tempo, while Jude Bellingham’s late runs disrupted Bayern’s shape.
- Ancelotti’s substitutions: Introducing Joselu and Luka Modrić shifted momentum decisively.
Tactical Battlegrounds to Watch
Dortmund’s Wing Play vs Madrid’s Full-Backs
- Jadon Sancho’s resurgence: The on-loan Manchester United winger has regained his dribbling flair (3.5 successful take-ons per game). He’ll test Dani Carvajal’s defensive stamina.
- Vinícius Jr.’s threat: Dortmund’s Julian Ryerson must balance attacking overlaps with containing Vinícius’ 1v1 dominance (12 UCL goal contributions).
The Bellingham Factor
Facing his former club, Jude Bellingham’s hybrid false nine role could exploit Dortmund’s midfield gaps. His 23 goals this season highlight his evolution under Ancelotti.
Key Stats and Historical Context
- Real Madrid’s final pedigree: 14 titles, including 8 wins in their last 9 finals.
- Dortmund’s underdog status: Their 1997 triumph remains their sole UCL trophy.
- Head-to-head: Madrid edged Dortmund 3-2 in the 2023 group stage, but Terzić’s tactical overhaul since then levels the playing field.
Crickex Prediction: A Clash of Philosophies
While bookmakers favor Madrid (3/5 odds), Dortmund’s cohesive unit and tactical flexibility (17/4 underdogs) could spring a surprise. Expect:
- Scoreline: 2-1 to Real Madrid after extra time (Vini Jr. and Bellingham to score).
- Dark horse: Niclas Füllkrug’s aerial prowess (3/1 anytime scorer) could punish set-piece lapses.
Beyond the Final: Champions League Evolution
The 2024/25 season introduces a 36-team league phase, replacing groups. Each club plays 8 matches (4 home/away), with top-8 advancing directly. Crickex will provide ongoing coverage of this revolutionary format.
Relive the Drama with Crickex
Who lifts the trophy? Can Sancho script a fairytale? Share your predictions below and stay tuned for post-match analysis exclusively on Crickex—your home for tactical depth and football storytelling.
(Odds updated May 2024. Data: Opta, UEFA)
