The Stakes Were High: The 2013/14 UEFA Champions League Final
The 2013/14 UEFA Champions League final was a match that transcended the boundaries of a mere football game, encapsulating the essence of a city’s rivalry and the weight of history. Long before the first ball was kicked, the stage was set for a clash that would be remembered for years to come. For Real Madrid, the opportunity to secure their elusive ‘Decima’—their 10th European Cup—was a dream that had eluded them for over a decade. For Atletico Madrid, it was a chance to etch their name in the annals of European football for the first time. The deep-seated animosity between the two clubs, separated by just a few miles in Madrid, added an extra layer of intensity to the proceedings.
The Match: Drama and Comeback
When the final kicked off in Lisbon’s Estadio da Luz, the weight of expectation seemed to be weighing heavily on Real Madrid. Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid, known for their rugged and disciplined style, took an early lead in the 36th minute. Diego Godin’s header, which saw Real Madrid’s goalkeeper Iker Casillas bundled into his own net, sent the underdogs into a frenzy. As the clock ticked down, it appeared that Atletico would inflict a devastating blow on their city rivals. However, fate had other plans. In a moment that has since become legendary, Sergio Ramos rose highest from Luka Modric’s corner in the 93rd minute, planting a powerful header past Atleti’s goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. This equalizer not only sent the game into extra time but also shifted the momentum decisively in Real Madrid’s favor. Carlo Ancelotti’s side capitalized on this shift, scoring three more goals to secure a 4-1 victory and clinch La Decima.
Real Madrid’s Line-Up: Legends and Champions
The 2014 Real Madrid side was a collection of some of the greatest footballers of their generation. Iker Casillas, the longtime Real Madrid and Spanish national team goalkeeper, may not have had his best day, but his leadership and experience were crucial in orchestrating the comeback. Dani Carvajal, a product of Madrid’s academy, had recently rejoined the club and quickly established himself as a key player. Raphael Varane, alongside Sergio Ramos, formed an impenetrable central defensive partnership that was the backbone of Madrid’s European success. Sergio Ramos, known for his dramatic moments and red cards, delivered the most significant goal of his career in the final, a header that changed the course of the match. Fabio Coentrao, who started the final ahead of Marcelo, was replaced by the Brazilian after an hour, but his contribution was vital.
In midfield, Luka Modric and Sami Khedira provided the creativity and tenacity needed to control the game. Modric, asubstained presence in Madrid’s engine room, continues to play at the highest level, while Khedira, now retired, has turned his attention to a coffee business and a foundation. Angel Di Maria, whose surging run and shot set up Gareth Bale’s goal, was later transferred to Manchester United. Gareth Bale, a key part of the ‘BBC’ forward line with Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo, scored the crucial goal in extra time. Benzema, now playing in Saudi Arabia, has continued to be a prolific scorer, while Cristiano Ronaldo, now 40, is still breaking records with Al Nassr, aiming to reach his goal of 1,000 career goals.
Atletico Madrid’s Line-Up: Resilience and Spirit
Atletico Madrid’s starting lineup for the 2014 final was a testament to their resilience and tactical discipline under Diego Simeone. Thibaut Courtois, who had been on a successful loan spell with Atleti, later joined Real Madrid and is now their first-choice keeper. Juanfran, a pillar of Simeone’s defense, retired in 2021 and now runs a global sports events agency. Miranda, another Atleti stalwart, played over 170 times for the club and retired in early 2023. Diego Godin, a rugged Uruguayan defender, made a significant impact in the final with his goal, and after retiring in 2023, briefly came out of retirement to play for a local team in Uruguay. Filipe Luis, who spent two spells with Atleti, is now the coach of Flamengo in Brazil.
In midfield, Raul Garcia, known for his versatility and energy, ended his career with Athletic Club and scored a crucial penalty in a Copa del Rey final. Tiago, a key midfielder, retired in 2017 and has since been involved in coaching. Gabi, Atletico’s skipper, made over 350 appearances for the club and is now the manager of Getafe B. Koke, the only remaining player from the 2014 lineup, continues to captain Atleti under Simeone. Diego Costa, a free agent at 36, had a goal-laden spell at Chelsea and multiple stints with Atleti. David Villa, Spain’s top goalscorer, is now the founder of DV7 Group, which owns a lower league Spanish team.
The Impact: Legacy and Future
The 2014 UEFA Champions League final left an indelible mark on the history of both clubs and the city of Madrid. For Real Madrid, the victory was a redemption of a long-held dream, solidifying their status as the most successful club in European football. The dramatic comeback, spearheaded by Sergio Ramos, is often cited as the moment that forged Real Madrid’s never-say-die mentality. For Atletico Madrid, the defeat was a bitter pill to swallow, but it did not deter their ambition. Under Diego Simeone, who has been in charge for over a decade, Atleti have continued to challenge for domestic and European honors.
The Renewed Rivalry: Round of 16 Clash
As Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid prepare to meet again in the UEFA Champions League round of 16, the echoes of the 2014 final resonate through the minds of players and fans alike. The match, set to be broadcast live on TNT Sports and discovery+, promises to be another memorable encounter. Carlo Ancelotti, the most successful manager in Champions League history, predicts a “very entertaining” clash, while Diego Simeone, the enduring force at Atletico, is “excited” for the tie. The 2014 final remains a benchmark, a reminder of the drama and intensity that can unfold when these two clubs meet on the biggest stage.
