Vinicius Junior scored the game-winning goal as Real Madrid defeated Liverpool 1-0 in Saturday’s postponed Champions League final in Paris.
Kick-off was delayed by more than 30 minutes as Liverpool fans struggled to gain entry to the Stade de France, eventually taking their seats to watch Jurgen Klopp’s men dominate the proceedings.
But in the 59th minute, Vinicius tucked away his fourth goal of the season – one of only four Blancos attempts.
Runners-up in the Premier League Thibaut Courtois’ superb saves either side of that strike denied Liverpool, and Carlo Ancelotti’s side held on to win the European Cup for the 14th time – seven more than any other team.
Following the delay, Liverpool started confidently and only failed to take the lead inside the first 20 minutes thanks to two excellent saves from Courtois.
The Real Madrid goalkeeper reacted quickly to deny Mohamed Salah’s instinctive effort before superbly pawing Sadio Mane’s powerful strike off the post.
Madrid thought they had taken the lead shortly before halftime when Karim Benzema stroked home after some slapstick Liverpool defending, but it was ruled out for offside against the France international – a decision confirmed by VAR after a lengthy review.
However, Vinicius stole in behind Trent Alexander-Arnold to turn in Federico Valverde’s low ball across the penalty area just before the hour mark.
Courtois made three crucial saves from Salah in the final 20 minutes, the last of which really stood out, to cap off a fantastic individual performance and ensure Ancelotti’s men claimed a record-extending victory.
