"This is Wembley Stadium in London, England. The entire stadium is roaring with the cheers of both sets of fans, all rallying behind their respective teams!"
"On this 26th of May, Real Madrid and Manchester United have become the focus of the world. After intense group stages and brutal knockout rounds, they have finally met in the Champions League final!"
"The Red Devils from the Premier League and the Galácticos from La Liga share the same goal tonight: to reach the pinnacle of European football!"
"In the Champions League semifinals, Manchester United defeated the Bundesliga powerhouse Schalke 04 twice, with the Red Devils displaying astonishing form across both legs!"
"However, in terms of momentum and the intensity of their journey, Real Madrid had it tougher. Before reaching the final, Real Madrid faced their archrivals Barcelona in two fiercely contested matches, securing one win and one loss!"
"These two matches cost them Xabi Alonso and Sergio Ramos. Could this be a turning point in the game?"
"At the same time, we must also focus on two key players in this high-stakes clash!"
"Cristiano Ronaldo from Portugal and Suker from Croatia!"
"Currently, they are first and second in the race for the Champions League Golden Boot, with 16 and 15 goals respectively."
"This Champions League final is not just about winning the trophy but also about determining who will claim the Golden Boot!"
"Who will these honors ultimately belong to?"
"For whom will the fireworks light up the night?"
Spanish commentator González shouted in his most fervent voice: "The opening ceremony of the Champions League final has begun!"
Boom~~~~~~~~!!!!!!
A low, resonant horn echoed from the stadium speakers, like the calm before the storm, the tension before the onslaught.
It was followed by the familiar "Champions League Anthem."
Performed by the Royal Band of England and sung by the St. Martin's Academy Choir.
The majestic melody!
The soaring, grand vocals!
Coupled with the roaring cheers of the fans, the atmosphere reached its peak.
At both ends of the stadium, the emblems of Real Madrid and Manchester United slowly unfurled.
The giant crests trembled, symbolizing that these two teams would be the protagonists of the night.
The camera focused on the player tunnel.
Four Royal Guards, dressed in white breeches, red military uniforms, and bearskin hats, marched in perfect formation. They carried the Champions League trophy, the highest honor in European football, onto the field.
At that moment, the entire stadium erupted.
On camera, the Champions League trophy gleamed with a silvery light. The words "2010/2011 UEFA Champions League Winner" were engraved on its surface, but the space for the winner's name remained blank.
After the match, once the outcome was decided, the victors would engrave their club's name on this trophy, representing the highest honor in football.
Red and white ribbons hung from both handles of the trophy.
These represented the two finalists: Manchester United and Real Madrid.
The trophy was gently placed on its pedestal, and the four Royal Guards faced the stands.
By now, the stadium was buzzing with excitement.
Amid the majestic music.
Amid the thunderous cheers.
Under the gaze of millions.
The players from both teams emerged from the tunnel, passing through the Champions League arch and stepping onto the field.
Huff~~ Huff~~ Huff~~~
Suker could feel his teammates' rapid breathing.
Though they tried to suppress it, even Suker found it hard to remain calm at this moment.
His heart raced wildly, preparing for what was to come.
The starting lineups were as follows:
Real Madrid (4-3-3):
Goalkeeper: Casillas.
Defenders: Srna, Carvalho, Pepe, Marcelo.
Midfielders: Khedira, Kaká, Diarra.
Forwards: Di María, Benzema, Suker.
Manchester United (4-4-2):
Goalkeeper: Van der Sar.
Defenders: Fábio, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra.
Midfielders: Valencia, Carrick, Modrić, Park Ji-sung.
Forwards: Ronaldo, Rooney.
"In Real Madrid's lineup, Kaká is playing in the position previously held by Alonso. In recent matches, Kaká has shown excellent form in this role. Clearly, Real Madrid has considered transitioning Kaká into this position, especially given his excellent coordination with Suker in the midfield. Whether it's short passes or long through balls, they execute with ease!"
"This is also Real Madrid's most dangerous combination!"
"At the same time, Manchester United must be wary of Benzema. In the 38th round of the league, Benzema scored a hat trick. The French striker's form peaked in the final round of the league. Will his excellent form carry over to the Champions League final? This is something Manchester United's players must carefully consider!"
"From the lineup, we can see that even with Alonso and Ramos injured, Real Madrid can still rely on their strong bench for reinforcements. Carvalho has always followed Mourinho, and with Ramos absent, Carvalho has been called upon to partner with Pepe in central defense!"
"At full-back, Srna and Marcelo: Srna's performance against Tottenham was particularly impressive. With his experience and agility, he completely neutralized Gareth Bale, becoming the cornerstone of Real Madrid's right flank defense!"
"The captain, Casillas, is in goal. After the World Cup, Casillas is undoubtedly one of the strongest goalkeepers in the world right now!"
"Looking at Manchester United's lineup, the forward line is led by Ronaldo and Rooney. Ronaldo is likely playing closer to a shadow striker role, but his versatility allows him to excel in this position."
"Rooney is the lone striker up front. The midfield consists of Valencia, Carrick, Modrić, and Park Ji-sung!"
"Special mention goes to Luka Modrić. The Croatian midfielder has completely overshadowed Giggs, becoming the team's midfield core. In the Premier League, Modrić's excellent playmaking and performance have helped Manchester United achieve remarkable feats. His partnership with Ronaldo's efficient shooting has made him a formidable playmaker!"
"This is also a key player in Manchester United's Premier League title victory this season!"
"The defensive line features Vidic and Ferdinand, undoubtedly the most reassuring combination for Manchester United fans. Both Ferdinand and Vidic are exceptionally solid center-backs. However, in this match, they will face a stern test from Modrić!"
"Evra and Fábio are the two full-backs. Compared to Evra, Fábio faces significant pressure as the right-back. Can the Brazilian right-back withstand Modrić's attacks? After all, the last Brazilian right-back was repeatedly exploited by Modrić!"
"The players from both teams have taken their positions on the field. Folks! The Champions League final is about to begin!"
On camera, the players from both teams were lined up.
On the left, wearing white home jerseys, was Real Madrid.
On the right, in red jerseys, was Manchester United.
Manchester United kicked off the first half.
Ronaldo and Rooney stood at the center circle, waiting to start.
Suker stood in his own half, constantly adjusting his breathing.
He noticed Benzema repeatedly kissing his bandaged right hand.
"This guy is insane!"
Suker muttered under his breath before turning his attention to the opponent's half.
Manchester United was not an easy opponent!
Even without Ronaldo and Rooney, they had the ability to reach the Champions League final.
With these two players and Ferguson's guidance, Manchester United posed an even greater threat.
Ronaldo's goal-scoring efficiency, combined with Modrić's playmaking ability, made them a duo not to be underestimated.
Of course, Real Madrid was equally strong.
Suker was grateful for his foresight in transitioning Kaká to midfield. Otherwise, while Ronaldo had Modrić to support him, Suker would have had to drop back to receive passes, which would have been frustrating.
Now, even without Alonso, Kaká could handle the playmaking duties in midfield.
Beep!!
The whistle blew, and Real Madrid's players pressed forward aggressively.
The ball was passed to Modrić, who immediately passed it back.
But he didn't stay still; he continued to move.
Just as Modrić was about to find space to receive the ball, Suker suddenly closed in on him, preventing him from getting the pass.
Modrić frowned slightly.
He tried to shake off Suker with another run, but Suker followed him step for step.
It wasn't until Modrić reached the other half that Suker stopped, but Di María took over marking Modrić.
"Man-marking the playmaker?"
Ferguson watched the field and nodded slightly.
This was something Mourinho would do.
But... marking Modrić wouldn't be easy. Under his guidance, Modrić had been transformed.
"Pass it here!"
Modrić suddenly broke free, surged past Di María, and held him off to receive the ball.
As his teammate passed the ball, Modrić leaned back forcefully.
Modrić pushed Di María away, turned with the ball, and passed it to Park Ji-sung on the left.
Park Ji-sung played the ball down the wing to Rooney.
Rooney didn't cross but passed it back diagonally.
In that position, Modrić was already sprinting forward.
Just as Modrić was about to receive the ball, a figure slid in and intercepted it!
"Kaká! Brilliant tackle! He anticipated Manchester United's passing lane, kept an eye on Modrić's movement, and closed in just as Rooney was about to pass!"
Cheers erupted across the stadium.
"Kaká is amazing!"
Modrić gritted his teeth. He didn't need to look back to know who it was.
Kaká initially wanted to pass directly to Suker.
But Modrić suddenly stepped across, blocking the passing lane.
Just as Kaká could anticipate the play, Modrić could do the same.
Kaká pulled the ball back and turned, intending to pass to a teammate. Just then, Khedira suddenly shouted:
"Watch out!"
Before Kaká could react, someone shoved him hard.
Kaká fell to the ground.
Ronaldo stole the ball and turned to attack.
Beep!
The referee's whistle blew.
The referee signaled a foul by Ronaldo.
Ronaldo stopped and argued with the referee, but the referee ignored him.
Kaká got up from the ground.
He let out a breath.
He had been careless.
After the passing lane was blocked, Manchester United had already started pressing. He needed to be more careful with his passing rhythm.
He couldn't afford to lose the ball in his own half. If he did, Ronaldo had the ability to threaten their goal.
"That was a dangerous tackle. Kaká needs to stay alert. Losing the ball here could give Manchester United a shooting opportunity!"
Kaká placed the ball at the free-kick spot and made a "zip it" gesture toward Suker.
Suker was about to say something but saw the gesture and turned away with a smirk.
Boom!
Kaká passed the ball directly to Suker.
Suker received the ball near the left touchline. Valencia watched him nervously.
Suker glanced at Valencia and Fábio's positioning.
Even if he tried to burst down the wing, Fábio could intercept and clear the ball.
So, Suker drove toward the inside channel.
Suker dribbled slowly, but as he approached, Valencia grew increasingly tense.
"Don't let him past!"
"Don't let him past!"
"Don't let him past!"
Valencia reminded himself repeatedly, staring intently at Suker's footwork.
Suker kept closing in on Valencia, trying to lure him into committing.
But Valencia kept backing away, refusing to bite.
Defending so passively?
Then don't blame me!
Suker feinted left and right, his upper body swaying rapidly. Then, he dropped his left shoulder.
Valencia didn't fall for it.
Suker pushed the ball to the right.
He'd overpower him with Explosive power!
Suker burst to the right using his explosive speed to level the positioning.
Valencia shoved Suker hard with his shoulder, trying to push him back, but Suker gradually gained ground.
Just then, Vidic charged over.
"I'm here!"
Seeing Vidic rushing toward him, Suker shoved back with his shoulder and swung his right foot fiercely at the ball.
Boom!
The ball flew toward the goal, grazing the crossbar and going out for a goal kick.
Manchester United's goalkeeper Van der Sar leaped up, making a save. After landing, he turned to look at Suker, his eyes filled with fear.
What kind of physicality did this guy have?
To take such a powerful shot under that kind of pressure and still produce such quality was monstrous.
There was no denying that Suker's long shot had terrified the 41-year-old Dutch veteran Van der Sar!
"Oh~~~ Suker!! This is Suker! Under such intense pressure, he can still produce such a high-quality shot. This is why he must be marked! Valencia didn't lose his position, but he still couldn't say he contained Suker! Suker is rallying the fans for louder cheers. He wants his teammates to draw energy from the crowd."
González laughed: "Perhaps because it's the Champions League final, both teams are playing somewhat cautiously. Given the importance of the match, mental adjustment is crucial. Real Madrid's players indeed need to get more excited!"
Suker waved his hands upward, urging the fans to cheer.
At the same time, he shouted to his teammates: "Get excited! If not now, then when? Don't act all tough usually and then choke in a key match!"
The English commentator pursed his lips: "Suker is boosting morale. Although Real Madrid has the most Champions League titles, for many of these players, this is their first Champions League final. It's natural to feel nervous, but this is something they must overcome. In times like these, a player like Suker, with extensive Champions League experience and two titles, plays a leading role. This is crucial!"
The cheers of Real Madrid fans grew even louder, and the players gradually began to get into the game.
Suker was right.
If not now, then when?
Manchester United's goal kick.
Goalkeeper Van der Sar passed the ball to Fábio.
Just as Fábio was about to receive it, Ferdinand shouted urgently: "Pass it here! Pass it here!"
Fábio sensed the danger and immediately passed the ball across.
At that moment, Suker arrived a step too late.
But Suker turned sharply, blocking the passing lane between Ferdinand and Fábio. On the other side, Di María did the same.
Moreover, Diarra pushed up to mark Modrić.
Ferdinand was also pressed by Benzema and could only pass back to Van der Sar.
Van der Sar, experienced and calm, cleared the ball with a powerful kick.
Ronaldo and Rooney jumped for the header, but Carvalho won the aerial duel, passing to Kaká, who distributed the ball to maintain possession.
"Right from the kickoff, possession has changed hands!"
The English commentator frowned: "This is Real Madrid's high press. They must be careful with this pressing. Otherwise, difficulty in building play will be the least of their worries. If they lose the ball here, Real Madrid will directly threaten their goal."
The ball circulated around the center circle.
Kaká didn't make overly aggressive forward passes but instead probed by switching play to the wings.
Kaká noticed that every time Suker moved, it disrupted Manchester United's defense.
This meant he could use Suker's movement to tear apart Manchester United's defense.
"Let's test it further!"
Kaká passed the ball sideways to Diarra while pushing higher up the field. At the same time, he glanced at Suker to confirm his position.
Suker blinked. With [Kaká's Awareness], the two maintained impeccable tacit understanding.
Thus, Suker instantly understood Kaká's intention.
Use me as bait?
Suker grinned.
But if this attempt succeeded, Suker could switch between being bait and the main attacker, confusing Manchester United's defense even more.
Thinking this, Suker immediately cut inside toward the center.
Suker strutted across the defensive line as if saying.
Everyone, look at me!
The show-off is here!
Sure enough, Manchester United's defense began to converge toward Suker. Suker pulled wide into the channel, drawing Valencia and Carrick with him.
At that moment, Modrić stayed central, and Park Ji-sung drifted toward the touchline.
The right channel was about to open up.
Now!
Kaká played a through ball!
The ball barely grazed Park Ji-sung's heel as it went past.
Park Ji-sung turned in panic, but Di María cut in sharply at a ninety-degree angle, snatched the ball, and faced a defense stretched by Benzema. Di María struck the ball hard with his left foot.
Boom!
The ball flew toward the bottom right corner.
Just as it was about to cross the line, a large hand appeared and tipped the ball over the bar.
"Van der Sar!! A fantastic save! The 41-year-old Van der Sar made a lightning-fast reaction to deny Di María's shot!"
"However, two consecutive attacks have put Manchester United on the back foot. This time, Real Madrid's overall movement was perfectly synchronized. When Manchester United's defense shifted left, Kaká didn't hesitate to play the ball into the right channel, almost assisting Di María for a goal!"
"Although they didn't score, Real Madrid's two attacks have threatened Manchester United's goal and earned them the first corner of the match!"