In a final, that was characterised by tears and heartbreak but Liverpool’s glorious run to Kiev ultimately fell short. Two-time defending European champions Real Madrid beat the Reds 3-1 in the final to win their third consecutive European Cup.
Despite starting so brightly in what increasingly looked like a cracking final, Liverpool suffered a devastating blow 30 minutes in when Mo Salah was forced off the pitch through injury. Madrid immediately pressed their advantage and the Reds did well to get to the break on level terms.
In the second half, the Reds conceded an early horror goal and Los Blancos began flopping and writhing anytime a Liverpool player got near them. Then within minutes, Sadio Mané pounced on an equaliser saving the match.
Then Gareth Bale entered the match.
Two minutes after entering, the Welshman scored what may go down as the greatest goal in Champions League final. His overhead, left-footed volley left the ground speechless and all but snuffed any embers of a Liverpool recovery. Later, he would unleash a long-range effort from nearly 30 yards that handcuffed Loris Karius and surprisingly found the back of the net.
After that, there was little left but heartbreak for the Reds whose remarkable season crashed to an unfortunate end. The romantic ride that found Liverpool finalists proved a step too far. Yet their season showcased some of the finest football in the competition.
Here are four findings from the match.
