Dortmund vs Real Madrid | Saturday 01 June | Wembley Stadium | 21:00
It is the ultimate European club game, where history and prestige collide to produce a wonderful, eccentric, and captivating performance! Where football is once again put on a pedestal and revelled in by all sports fans!
It’s the Champions League final, it is Dortmund against Real Madrid! Here is all you need to know before placing your bets.
To Win (90 mins)
Dortmund 37/10
Draw 31/10
Real Madrid 13/20
Dortmund
Dortmund have been the surprise package all throughout this competition, they have successfully navigated an incredibly tough group and now see themselves earn a spot in the showpiece final on Saturday evening. Yes, they have struggled domestically, finishing fifth in the Bundesliga.
Interestingly, the last time Dortmund found themselves in the Champions League final (2013) it was also held at Wembley in what would see Bayern Munich win an intercontinental De Klassiker.
Dortmund is without a doubt the underdog here, however given the approach Real Madrid is likely to employ, I think they will be brought into the game, a lot of their frustration this season has come against teams who look to sit deep and play a compact style against them, alternatively, when they play more expansive and offensive outfits, they have successfully navigated the space available and exploited their opponent’s defensive shift.
For me, the essence of Dortmund is seen in their club decisions…local media have reported that all of their club staff have been afforded a trip to the final. That is insane! I must be honest and say, I hope they are able to see out a fantastic close to their season!
Real Madrid
What a Champions League campaign Real Madrid have had thus far. Securing 18 points from a possible 18 in their group stage, they have seen out some stern tests and questions to earn yet another European final.
Interestingly, their league form has also been the polar opposite to their Champions League display. They have had some really close encounters during this tournament whereas domestically they have been nothing short of clinical and incredibly ruthless in their pursuit of Spanish excellence.
Madrid is without blemish, the first time this has been the case in their history. We all know what Carlo Ancelotti is capable of with his chargers and I do not doubt for a second the intensity of the commitment with which this Madrid side will approach the game on Saturday.
Expect a confident Madrid to take the game to their opponents, looking to be as direct as possible and fully confident in their own ability!
Prediction: Real Madrid + BTTS (47/20)
Admittedly, I would love nothing less than a Dortmund win! The romantic aspects of the game are really just captivating and incredibly entertaining! From the story of their manager to the Reus narrative, the club “road trip” and just their underdog identity here…
Unfortunately, though, football isn’t played on paper and with that, the quality of this Spanish juggernaut is undeniable. Back Carlo’s chargers to earn yet another win and both teams scoring to sweeten the deal.
Ryan Liberty