After a three-week wait, Madrid finally played host to the 2019 Champions League Final. In a confirmation that Liverpool have returned to the European elite, the Reds beat Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 at Wanda Metropolitano Stadium.
In a match where the lay-off left both sides lacking sharpness, the fixture had a more pre-season feel at times. Adding to the delay, the heat and a first-minute penalty call completely changed the game. It all made for a mistake-ridden opening 45 minutes with less quality and few chances. Still, Mohamed Salah got his moment of redemption scoring from the spot.
Having conserved their energy, things settled down in the second half and the Reds coiled to play more on the break as Spurs sought an equaliser. Liverpool continued to hold off the London side and limit their chances and the professionalism of Jurgen Klopp’s lads ensured the result.
Despite the dream start, the match remained wrought with tension for 85 minutes before the Reds sealed Spurs fate. As Alisson proved the value of every pound of his fee, Liverpool left it late to finish off their opponents. In what has become his signature for the season, Divock Origi slipped home an 87th-minute goal to secure the club their sixth European Cup.
Here are four findings from the match.
