By John Essien
Real Madrid wrapped up an impressive campaign with a Champions League and La Liga crown as Carlo Ancelotti wrote his name in the history books of Europe’s elite competition only in his first season and second spell at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The Italian had arrived back at the club in the summer with a clear mission to keep the season respectable until Kylian Mbappe could sign in the summer of 2022.
Though, they were beaten in the race to land the France international, who has chosen to extend his contract at Paris Saint-Germain, but the Spanish giants maintained elite mentality in Paris to stun Liverpool 1-0 in the final.
Real Madrid have lived a charmed life in Europe this season, coming from behind to subdue huge favourites during the knockout stages.
However, Ancelotti’s charges had saved perhaps their best defensive performance for the most important match of the campaign.
Liverpool arrived into Paris as the heavy favourites, yet as difficulties outside the ground engulfed the Reds’ traveling support, it was a sign of disappointment to come for Jurgen Klopp’s charges.
The Premier League giants failed to find their usual rhythm, despite controlling much of the ball and creating chances at Thibaut Courtois’ goal.
The match remained a goalless affair until Vinicius Jr broke the deadlock in the 60th minute to put Real Madrid in front.
Los Merengues broke forward and a cross was fired across the box by Federico Valverde which found Vinicius Jr open at the back post.
The Brazilian took full advantage of Alexander-Arnold falling asleep and converted an easy tap-in, giving the Spanish champions something to defend.
Yet, the Liverpool onslaught never came, with the English team never hitting top gear in their pursuit of the equalising goal.
Real Madrid were able to hold on, not truly tested by the Reds as the match ebbed into five minutes of additional and Clement Turpin then blew the final whistle to signify the end of the most memorable of seasons for Ancelotti and Los Blancos.
Ancelotti made history on the night, becoming the first Coach to win the Champions League four times.
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