The stage is set for a thrilling UEFA Champions League Final as German side Borussia Dortmund faces off against Spanish giants Real Madrid at Wembley Stadium, London, on 1 June 2024.
This tactical preview will delve into the key tactics, formations, and player matchups that could decide the outcome of this much-anticipated clash.
Both teams have showcased exceptional skill and resilience throughout the tournament, setting the scene for an epic showdown.
In this tactical analysis, we will explore the potential formations, key battles, and strategic nuances that both Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid might employ.
From Dortmund’s pressing mechanics to Madrid’s midfield dominance, every detail will be scrutinized in this analysis to understand how this final could unfold.
Stay tuned for a preview of one of the most exciting fixtures in world football.
Potential Lineups
In the UEFA Champions League Final 2024, Borussia Dortmund are expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation under the guidance of head coach
Edin Terzić.In goal, Gregor Kobel will provide a reliable presence, crucial for organizing the defence and making critical saves.
The back four will likely feature Julian Ryerson at right-back, Mats Hummels and Nico Schlotterbeck as the central defensive pair, and Ian Maatsen at left-back.
Hummels’ leadership and experience will be vital in marshalling the defence, while Schlotterbeck’s physicality and Maatsen’s pace balance the backline.
In midfield, captain Emre Can and Marcel Sabitzer will form a double pivot.
Can’s defensive solidity and Sabitzer’s box-to-box energy will be critical in both breaking up Real Madrid’s attacks and initiating Dortmund’s forward play.
The attacking midfield trio will likely consist of Jadon Sancho on the right, Julian Brandt in the central playmaking role, and Karim Adeyemi on the left.
Sancho and Adeyemi’s pace and dribbling skills will be crucial in stretching Real Madrid’s defence, while Brandt’s creativity and vision will be central to unlocking their backline.
Leading the line, Niclas Füllkrug will spearhead Dortmund’s attack.
His physical presence and finishing ability will be crucial in converting the chances created by the midfield and wingers.
However, Dortmund will have to cope with several absences and doubts.
Ramy Bensebaini is out with a knee injury, Julien Duranville is sidelined with a muscular issue, and Mateu Morey is unavailable, too.
There is also doubt over Sébastien Haller’s participation due to an ankle problem.
Despite these challenges, Edin Terzić has a well-drilled squad capable of competing at the highest level.
Dortmund’s potential lineup is poised to combine defensive resilience with explosive attacking play, setting the stage for an enthralling battle against Real Madrid in the Champions League final.
Real Madrid is expected to line up in a 4-3-1-2 formation under the experienced stewardship of head coach Carlo Ancelotti.
Thibaut Courtois will likely guard Real Madrid’s goal between the posts.
His experience, shot-stopping prowess, and commanding presence in the box are essential for the team’s defensive stability.
However, Andrey Lunin did a great job during Courtois’s long injury and might also be the number one.
The backline is set to feature Dani Carvajal at right-back, Antonio Rüdiger and captain Nacho Fernández as the central defensive pair, and Ferland Mendy at left-back.
Rüdiger’s physicality and Nacho’s leadership will be vital in dealing with Dortmund’s attacking threats, while Carvajal and Mendy provide width and support on the flanks.
In midfield, the dynamic trio of Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, and Toni Kroos will control the tempo of the game.
Valverde’s energy and versatility, Camavinga’s youthful exuberance and defensive capabilities, and Kroos’ experience and precise passing will be key in both defensive duties and transitioning the ball forward.
Playing just ahead of them, Jude Bellingham will assume the role of the attacking midfielder.
Bellingham’s ability to drive forward with the ball, his vision, and his knack for finding spaces between the lines make him a critical player in breaking down Dortmund’s defence.
Up front, the attacking duo of Rodrygo and Vinícius Júnior will spearhead Real Madrid’s offensive efforts.
Rodrygo’s quick feet and technical skills, combined with Vinícius’ blistering pace and dribbling ability, will pose significant challenges to Dortmund’s backline.
Real Madrid will have to navigate the final without David Alaba, who is sidelined with a knee injury, and Aurélien Tchouaméni, out with a foot issue.
However, the squad remains robust and well-equipped to handle these absences.
The way to the final
Borussia Dortmund’s journey to the UEFA Champions League Final in the 2023/2024 season has been nothing short of remarkable.
Ranked 8th in the UEFA coefficient and having last reached the round of 16 in the previous season, Dortmund has risen to the occasion, showcasing their resilience and tactical prowess.
The group stage saw Dortmund in the formidable Group F, where they faced Paris Saint-Germain, AC Milan, and Newcastle United.
The campaign started on a challenging note with a 2-0 defeat in Paris and a goalless draw at home against Milan.
However, Dortmund’s fortunes took a turn with consecutive victories over Newcastle.
These wins were pivotal, reigniting their campaign and setting the stage for a crucial away performance against Milan, where another composed display secured their qualification with a game to spare.
Dortmund finished as group winners with a record of three wins, two draws, and one loss, scoring seven goals and conceding four.
In the round of 16, Dortmund faced PSV Eindhoven.
A solid 3-1 aggregate victory saw them through to the quarter-finals.
The first leg in Eindhoven ended in a 1-1 draw, but Dortmund’s decisive performance in the return leg at home secured a 2-0 win, demonstrating their ability to handle high-pressure situations.
The quarter-finals pitted Dortmund against Atlético de Madrid in what turned out to be a classic encounter.
The first leg at the Westfalenstadion was a thrilling affair, ending in a 3-2 victory for Dortmund.
The return leg in Madrid was equally intense, with Dortmund narrowly edging out Atlético 2-2, resulting in a 5-4 aggregate win.
This high-scoring tie highlighted Dortmund’s attacking flair and their capacity to withstand pressure from top-tier opponents.
In the semi-finals, Dortmund faced Paris Saint-Germain once again.
This time, they produced a commanding performance, winning 2-0 on aggregate.
The first leg in Dortmund ended in a 1-0 victory, with the second leg in Paris seeing another solid defensive display complemented by a crucial goal to seal the tie.
Their authoritative progress against Paris showcased Dortmund’s growth and adaptability, proving they are formidable regardless of the opposition.
Dortmund’s path to the final has been characterized by tactical maturity, defensive solidity, and an ability to perform under pressure.
Their progression from a tough group, overcoming PSV, outlasting Atlético in a thrilling quarter-final, and dispatching Paris with authority in the semi-finals, underscores their credentials as serious contenders for the Champions League title.
Now, as they prepare to face Real Madrid in the final, Dortmund will look to cap off their impressive campaign with European glory.
Real Madrid’s path to the UEFA Champions League Final in the 2023/2024 season has been a testament to their enduring legacy and resilience in European football.
Ranked third in the UEFA coefficient and boasting an unparalleled history of 14 European Cup wins, Real Madrid entered the competition with high expectations.
The group stage saw Madrid drawn into Group C, where they displayed their dominance by winning all six matches.
With 16 goals scored and only seven conceded, they showcased a potent attack and a solid defence.
Their perfect group stage record reaffirmed their status as serious contenders for the title.
In the round of 16, Real Madrid faced RB Leipzig.
The first leg in Germany was a closely contested match that ended in a 1-1 draw.
However, Madrid secured their progress with a 1-0 victory at the Santiago Bernabéu, thanks largely to the heroics of their goalkeeper, Andriy Lunin.
His crucial saves kept Leipzig at bay, allowing Madrid to advance with a 2-1 aggregate score.
The quarter-finals brought a rematch with Manchester City, last season’s semi-final conquerors.
This tie was a roller-coaster, ending 4-4 on aggregate.
Madrid’s composure in the penalty shoot-out, guided once again by Lunin’s stellar performance, saw them triumph 4-3 in Manchester.
Lunin’s 24-karat display throughout both legs, especially during the shoot-out, was instrumental in their victory, highlighting his importance to the team.
In the semi-finals, Madrid faced Bayern Munich, another European powerhouse.
The first leg in Munich ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw, setting up a nail-biting second leg in Madrid.
Here, Joselu emerged as a hero, scoring crucial late goals to secure a 2-1 victory and a 4-3 aggregate win.
His contributions and Madrid’s tactical astuteness saw off a spirited Bayern side and booked their place in the final.
Throughout their journey, Real Madrid remained an exciting and unpredictable team.
Their perfect group stage performance contrasted with the nerve-shredding encounters in the knockout stages.
The role of Andriy Lunin cannot be overstated; his exceptional goalkeeping was pivotal in both the round of 16 and the quarter-finals.
Joselu’s late heroics in the semi-finals further underscored Madrid’s depth and ability to rise to the occasion.
Borussia Dortmund’s tactics
When Borussia Dortmund hit their stride, they are a formidable force.
This season, BVB has shown remarkable resilience and adaptability, overcoming challenges in critical matches against formidable opponents like Paris Saint-Germain and Atlético de Madrid.
Their journey to the UEFA Champions League Final has been marked by tactical flexibility, defensive solidity, and effective use of their pacey wingers.
Dortmund’s tactical approach has evolved over the season.
Initially, they adopt quite a counterattacking strategy with a back three, particularly in their first group match against Paris.
However, after tweaking their formation to include a natural No.9 and a back four, their performance improved significantly.
This shift allowed them to establish a more balanced and effective system.
Their preferred setup now includes a 4-2-3-1 formation featuring three central midfielders and dynamic wingers like Donyell Malen, Karim Adeyemi, and Jadon Sancho.
This formation allows Dortmund to either progress the ball through controlled build-up play or press their opponents aggressively.
The versatility of their wingers is crucial, as Sancho and Adeyemi can exploit spaces behind the opposition’s defence, especially against teams with attacking full-backs like Real Madrid.
Dortmund’s wingers, Jadon Sancho and Karim Adeyemi, are pivotal in their offensive strategy.
These players’ pace and skill can stretch any defence, making them a significant threat, especially if Real Madrid’s full-backs, Dani Carvajal and Ferland Mendy, push high up the pitch.
The wingers’ ability to exploit spaces left by Madrid’s advancing full-backs could be decisive.
Offensively, Dortmund’s lack of a prolific goal-scorer could be a concern.
Füllkrug has only three goals in the Champions League this season, and while Dortmund has had 12 different scorers, they lack a classic talisman up front.
This could pose a problem if the match becomes tight and goals are hard to come by.
However, their ability to spread the goal-scoring responsibilities might also be an advantage, making it harder for Madrid to focus on stopping a single player.
Defensively, Dortmund has been impressive, particularly in their semi-final matches against PSG, where they kept clean sheets in both legs.
This defensive solidity is anchored by goalkeeper Gregor Kobel and the center-back duo of Mats Hummels and Nico Schlotterbeck, who have been in exceptional form.
Their aggressive team defence starts from the front, with striker Niclas Füllkrug setting the tone for their defensive efforts.
While Dortmund’s defense has been robust, it faces a significant challenge against Real Madrid’s potent attack.
Madrid boasts multiple goal-scoring threats, with Rodrygo, Vinícius Júnior, Joselu, and Jude Bellingham all having more goals in the competition than Dortmund’s top scorer, Niclas Füllkrug.
Dortmund’s defence will need to be at its best to contain Madrid’s offensive firepower.
Key player: Julian Brandt
Julian Brandt has established himself as one of the Bundesliga’s most consistent and impressive performers over the past few years.
The German international, now 27, joined Borussia Dortmund after a successful stint at Bayer Leverkusen, where he honed his creative midfield skills over five and a half seasons.
Since moving to BVB, Brandt has been a vital presence on the pitch, completing four years with the club and making at least 40 appearances in each season.
Brandt’s influence on the team cannot be overstated.
Last season, he hit double figures for goals, showcasing his ability to contribute not only in playmaking but also in scoring.
His vision, technical prowess, and ability to unlock defences make him the linchpin of Dortmund’s midfield.
Brandt’s versatility allows him to adapt to various roles, whether orchestrating the play from a deeper position or advancing into attacking spaces to create and finish opportunities.
Whenever Brandt is on the pitch, he brings a sense of creativity and stability to the team.
His ability to read the game, combined with his precise passing and dribbling skills, enables Dortmund to maintain fluidity in their attacks and control in their midfield.
As they prepare for the UEFA Champions League Final, Brandt’s presence will be crucial in dictating the tempo and breaking down Real Madrid’s defence.
Real Madrid’s tactics
Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid embody the pride, ambition, and miraculous feats required to win the UEFA Champions League.
The club’s storied history and relentless desire for European glory set them apart, even when other teams may be in better form.
Key players like Vinícius Júnior, Jude Bellingham, Toni Kroos, and potentially returning stars Thibaut Courtois and Éder Militão are hitting their stride at the perfect time, making them formidable opponents in the final.
Real Madrid play with vivacity and tenacity.
Ancelotti has primarily employed a 4-4-2 and 4-3-1-2 formation, adapting to injuries and maximizing his midfield talent.
This setup allows Bellingham to switch roles between defensive duties on the left and attacking responsibilities at the tip of the midfield diamond.
His ability to drive into the box and score goals is crucial to Madrid’s strategy.
Real Madrid are arguably the best counterattacking team in Europe, capable of turning defense into attack with breathtaking speed and precision.
One of Madrid’s key strengths lies in their midfield, which boasts a wealth of talent and experience.
However, injuries have been a significant challenge.
The potential absence of Aurélien Tchouaméni, who is unlikely to be fit, is a considerable loss.
The midfield, nonetheless, remains a strong point with veterans like Kroos and the exceptional form of Bellingham.
Kroos, set to retire after UEFA EURO 2024, will be motivated to end his Madrid career on a high note, though the emotional weight of the occasion could impact his performance.
Offensively, Madrid rely heavily on the dynamic duo of Rodrygo and Vinícius Júnior.
Their pace and creativity can dismantle any defence, and their interplay with Bellingham will be key to breaking down Dortmund’s backline.
Bellingham’s role as an attacking midfielder allows Madrid to overload the opposition’s defence and create scoring opportunities from midfield.
Madrid’s defence, led by Rüdiger and Nacho, must cope with Dortmund’s rapid wingers.
The full-backs, Carvajal and Mendy, will need to balance their attacking inclinations with defensive responsibilities to prevent being exploited by Dortmucounterattackstacks.
The midfield’s ability to control the game and provide service to the forwards is critical, especially in the absence of Tchouaméni.
Valverde and Camavinga’s energy and versatility will be crucial in both defensive cover and transitioning to attack.
The goalkeeping position presents a unique dilemma.
Andriy Lunin has been a silent hero this season, excelling in crucial matches against Leipzig, Manchester City, and Bayern.
Yet, if Courtois is fit, Ancelotti faces the tough decision of whether to start the Belgian, who was instrumental in Madrid’s last Champions League triumph.
Courtois’ experience and reputation as one of the world’s best goalkeepers make him a natural choice, but his lack of match fitness poses a risk.
Key player: Jude Bellingham
Jude Bellingham’s move to Real Madrid was one of the most eye-catching transfers of the summer.
Taking on the iconic No.
5 shirt once worn by Zinédine Zidane, Bellingham faced high expectations at the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu.
The young English midfielder, already recognized as one of Europe’s brightest talents, has not only met but exceeded those expectations.
Despite dealing with shoulder and ankle issues, Bellingham has continued to impress with his all-around contributions on the field.
His ability to score goals and provide assists has been invaluable to Real Madrid this season.
Beyond the statistics, Bellingham’s relentless will to win and his passionate connection with the Madrid supporters have made him a standout figure.
Bellingham’s impact goes beyond his technical skills.
His vision, intelligence, and ability to control the midfield have brought a new dimension to Real Madrid’s play.
His presence in the squad has given the team an extra edge in crucial moments, making him a central figure in their tactical setup.
The love affair between Bellingham and the Madrid fans is evident.
His performances have not only earned him admiration but have also cemented his place as a key player in the team.
As Real Madrid prepares for the UEFA Champions League Final, Bellingham’s influence will be crucial in their quest for glory.
Conclusion
Borussia Dortmund’s journey to the final has demonstrated their tactical acumen, defensive strength, and the ability to adapt and overcome.
Their chances against Real Madrid will hinge on their ability to leverage the pace and creativity of their wingers, maintain their defensive solidity, and find ways to score against a strong Madrid side.
If Dortmund can execute their game plan effectively, they have a solid chance to lift the UEFA Champions League trophy.
However, they will need to be at their very best to overcome the experience and quality of Real Madrid in what promises to be a thrilling final at Wembley Stadium.
Real Madrid’s path to the final has showcased their resilience, tactical flexibility, and depth of talent.
Despite facing numerous challenges, including injuries and the emotional farewells of key players, they remain a formidable force.
Tcounterattackingcking prowess, combined with the individual brilliance of players like Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham, gives them a strong chance to secure another Champions League title.
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