The Best Matches in Champions League History
There are a lot of great Champions League matches, but some stand out above the rest. For example, the 1999 Champions League Final between Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, and the 2005 Champions League Final between Liverpool and Manchester United. These matches have become iconic in their own right. But what made these matches so special?
Liverpool’s 2005 Champions League Final
The 2005 UEFA Champions League Final was a match played between Liverpool and AC Milan in Istanbul, Turkey on 25 May 2005. The match took place at the Atatürk Olympic Stadium.
Real Madrid’s 1999 Champions League comeback against Bayern Munich
During the 1999 Champions League, Real Madrid faced Bayern Munich in a semifinal match. Bayern had led 1-0 at the half with goals from Claudio Pizarro and Stefan Effenberg. But Real scored two goals in the second half to come from behind and knock out Bayern. Goals from Figo and Giovane Elber were key in the comeback. After a goalless draw in the first leg, Bayern scored twice in the return leg and went on to win their third European Cup the following season.
Manchester United’s 1999 Champions League final
Manchester United’s triumph in the 1999 Champions League final was one of the most memorable in club history. It was their first European Cup triumph since the Heysel ban in 1985, and the first time an English team had won the Premiership, FA Cup, and European Cup in one season. It was a historic achievement for Manchester United and for manager Alex Ferguson, who were awarded a knighthood for his efforts on 12 June 1999. In the final, United needed 45 minutes to turn around a seemingly impossible situation. In three stoppage time minutes, United went from being two goals down to a 1-0 win.
Manchester United’s 2005 Champions League Final
Manchester United’s 2005 Champions League Final is one of the greatest ever. The team was arguably the best ever assembled in a club competition. Liverpool, meanwhile, had a disappointing league campaign, but their legendary striker Steven Gerrard was at the height of his powers. Despite the difficult circumstances, United had enough time to pull themselves out of an unlikely situation and win the match. In three stoppage-time minutes, they went from trailing by three goals to clinch the victory.
Manchester United’s 2005 Champions League Final against AC Milan
The final was a nervy affair, with Manchester United unable to find their usual cutting edge. It went to penalties after a 1-1 draw. AC Milan went on to win 5-3 on aggregate, as Manchester United failed to score in the first leg. United were behind 3-0 at halftime but were unable to make the lead stand. AC Milan striker Filippo Inzaghi scored two goals, the first of which was a fortuitous opener. The second goal came late, when he sealed the victory. Liverpool’s Dirk Kuyt scored a consolation goal.
Manchester United’s 1999 Champions League final against Bayern Munich
Manchester United’s 1999 Champions League final against Bundesliga side Bayern Munich ended in a 1-0 win for United. The match was a classic and one of the most memorable finals in club football. After a goalless first half, United went into the second half with much more confidence. United dominated possession but could not break down Bayern’s defense, and they had few incisive options in midfield. Then, Teddy Sheringham nodded a David Beckham cross to Solskjaer, who slotted the ball past goalkeeper Oliver Kahn.