There are finals that linger in the memory for decades, matches that shape the history of the sport. Who could forget the iconic all-Italian clash in 2003 at Old Trafford, or the memorable Milan-Liverpool showdown in 2005? Or the stunning 4-1 triumph in 2014 when Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid claimed La DĂ©cima, clinched by a last-gasp header from Sergio Ramos in stoppage time.
However, some finals fade into obscurity, remembered only by the dedicated fans of those teams. Despite their significance, these matches don’t carve a lasting spot in the collective memory.
2023/24: Dortmund vs. Real Madrid – 0-2
This final was unexpected; the Borussia Dortmund team was not considered a dominant force. Yet the Black and Yellows made it to the final, posing a genuine threat to Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid during the first half.
However, Courtois‘s exceptional saves kept Real Madrid in contention, leading them to victory in the second half with goals from Carvajal and Vinicius.
2021/22: Liverpool vs. Real Madrid – 0-1
Real Madrid found themselves in another final, mirroring their previous encounter with Borussia Dortmund. In Paris, Liverpool controlled the match, hitting the post and delivering 23 shots—nine on target—compared to Madrid’s three.
In the end, Vinicius’ quick counterattack was decisive, but once again, the standout player was Courtois, who thwarted every attempt on goal.
2018/19: Tottenham vs. Liverpool – 0-2
This match was less than thrilling, marked by Salah‘s penalty less than two minutes in, and ending with Origi‘s goal in the 87th minute, which saw a well-placed finish beat Lloris.
This all-English final had high expectations due to the dramatic paths of both teams, yet it ultimately failed to deliver the excitement many had hoped for.
2003/04: Monaco vs. Porto – 0-3
Looking back to the early 2000s, this was arguably the most surprising final ever. Absent from the spotlight were giants like Real Madrid, Bayern, Manchester United, or Barcelona. Instead, it was two underdogs, Monaco and Porto, vying for the Champions League title.
Monaco advanced past Chelsea, while Porto eliminated Deportivo, marking the dawn of José Mourinho’s legendary career before he headed to London and then onto Inter.
1990/91: Red Star vs. Marseille – 0-0 (5-3 on penalties)
Few recognize that Italy hosted the Champions League final immediately after the 1990 World Cup, at the San Nicola Stadium in Bari, recently relegated to Serie C.
This match is largely forgotten, ultimately decided by penalties.
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇮🇹 here.