Borussia Dortmund faces Real Madrid in the final. - Four pivotal duels are set to unfold at Wembley Stadium.
It has been a decade since Dortmund fell short in the Champions League final to Bayern Munich, with a score of 1-2. Now, they're back in the King's Class, this time facing off against global titan Real Madrid.
The fate of the Henkelpot is up for grabs, as 90,000 spectators in Wembley Stadium and millions more worldwide tune in to witness the clash between the two teams.
The stakes are high - the mighty Real Madrid squad is worth a staggering €1.04 billion compared to BVB's €465 million. Regardless, Dortmund remains steadfast in their pursuit of victory.
Sport director Sebastian Kehl, who served as captain in the 2013 Champions League final, shares their ambition: "We're aiming to achieve great things. We're ready. We have the chance to etch our names in history. This final is unprecedented."
Defender Nico Schlotterbeck, age 24, is eager for the challenge: "The entire globe is watching you. Our hope is that we can revel in the experience, not be overwhelmed by the notion of facing Real Madrid."
The outcome will be determined by these four pivotal matchups:
Terzic vs. Ancelotti
Edin Terzic, now in his first season as head coach (and once a winner of the DFB Cup), has nothing but respect for legendary coach Carlo Ancelotti who has won the Champions League on four occasions: "I would never consider questioning Carlo's decisions elsewhere."
Terzic is known for his emotional nature, while Ancelotti embodies calmness. Wembley is the most significant game of Terzic's managerial career. To eliminate Real, his defensive strategy must be spot-on.
Füllkrug vs. Rüdiger
It's clear: The face-off between DFB players Niclas Füllkrug (31) and Antonio Rüdiger (31) won't accept defeat before this summer's Euros!
Füllkrug is buzzing with confidence. The late-bloomer has proven he can hang with top European football, adding to his tally at the quarter- and semi-finals.
Rüdiger played under co-trainer Terzic in Dortmund's youth team, only to be dropped. At the moment, he's in top form.
Hummels vs. Vinícius Júnior
It's sure that Mats Hummels (35) is at his best during big games. He may employ a deep defensive line reminiscent of their approach against Paris and Mbappé, preventing Vinícius Júnior (23) and Rodrygo (23) from gaining speed.
Vinícius is starring this season with 34 goal contributions across 38 games. nicknamed "Wrangle-Vini," the Brazilian player has shown his hotheaded moments. The confrontation with the most electrifying duel is shaping up to be the most explosive.
Can vs. Bellingham
Previously a cornerstone of Dortmund, Jude Bellingham (20) has lit up the pitch at Real, propelling his tally to a staggering 23 goals in 41 games. With a market value of €180 million, he ranks among the most expensive players worldwide.
On Can's (30) side, his strong performance last year for BVB wasn't enough to secure victory. If he hones his destroyer skills, he has a shot at overcoming Bellingham.
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