Real Madrid secured their ninth Champions League title 16 years ago. Yesterday was the anniversary of that accomplishment. Here’s a look back at the momentous occasion and the man behind it all.
The most decorated team in all of European club football, Real Madrid. Now boasting an incredible 12 titles each one has its own special moment in history and in the hearts of fans. On May 15th, 2002, Real Madrid played against the German juggernauts at Hampden Park in Glasgow. Real Madrid as history has hoisted the famous trophy.
On this day 16 years ago, Zidane scored this incredible goal ⚽️💥 pic.twitter.com/51tAmnF3ow
— The Real Champs (@TheRealChampsFS) May 15, 2018
It was a fierce affair with two goals scored in the first quarter hour of the match. Madrid was on a mission to assert their European dominance once again. With the help of the Galactico’s Real were able to do just that.
Another legend who goes by the name of Raul would open up the scoring early on. Raul scored less than 10 minutes into the match giving Madrid a 1-0 lead. Lucio of Bayer would score just five minutes later. Moments before the stroke of half-time Zinedine Zidane would score one of the most memorable goals in all of football history.
The brilliance of Zidane’s goal is he shaped a moment in history turning what to many players is nothing, into something magical. Roberto Carlos was bursting down the left flank and towards the goal line. Seeing no option in a cross and space rapidly decreasing he opted for the unimaginable. With no one marking the Frenchman, he had the time and space to let the ball drop perfectly for him.
Zidane’s technique is one that will be hard to replicate even with all the training and technology infused in today’s world. Right-winger Lucas Vazquez though took a crack it earlier this season. Copa90 invited Lucas along with Luca Zidane to take their shot and effort to save the magnificent goal.
Now Zidane is more than just a legend at Real Madrid who braced the pitch with his presence. The Galactico is now the manager of the club he once played for.
Next: Marcelo reaches 450 caps with Real Madrid
In two seasons with the team, he has secured two more Champions League titles. This year he will guide them to their third straight UCL Final appearance in Kiev on May 26.