07/12/2024
Real Madrid has a rich and storied history in the UEFA Champions League, with numerous unforgettable moments. Here are some of their best moments in the competition:
1. Winning the First-Ever European Cup (1955-56)
Real Madrid won the inaugural European Cup (now Champions League) by defeating Stade de Reims 4-3 in the final.
This marked the beginning of their dominance in Europe, as they went on to win five consecutive titles from 1955 to 1960.
2. Di Stéfano’s Hat-Trick in the 1960 Final
In the 1960 final, Madrid defeated Eintracht Frankfurt 7-3, considered one of the greatest matches in football history.
Alfredo Di Stéfano scored a hat-trick, while Ferenc Puskás added four goals, showcasing the brilliance of Madrid's golden generation.
3. La Décima (10th Title, 2013-14)
After a 12-year wait, Real Madrid secured their 10th Champions League title with a dramatic comeback against Atlético Madrid.
Sergio Ramos scored a crucial equalizer in the 93rd minute, and Madrid went on to win 4-1 in extra time. This victory cemented their legacy in modern football.
4. Back-to-Back-to-Back Titles (2015-2018)
Real Madrid became the first team in the Champions League era to win three consecutive titles:
2016: Beat Atlético Madrid in a penalty shootout (5-3 after a 1-1 draw).
2017: Defeated Juventus 4-1 in a commanding performance in the final.
2018: Overcame Liverpool 3-1, featuring an iconic overhead goal by Gareth Bale and two errors from Liverpool’s goalkeeper Loris Karius.
5. Zidane's Volley (2002 Final)
In the 2002 final against Bayer Leverkusen, Zinedine Zidane scored one of the greatest goals in Champions League history.
His stunning left-footed volley helped Madrid secure a 2-1 victory and their ninth title.
6. Cristiano Ronaldo’s Overhead Kick (2018 Quarterfinals)
In the 2018 quarterfinal against Juventus, Ronaldo scored a breathtaking overhead kick in Turin, earning a standing ovation from the opposing fans.
This goal is often cited as one of the best in the competition's history.
7. Comeback Against Manchester City (2021-22 Semifinals)
Trailing 5-3 on aggregate in the dying minutes of the second leg, Rodrygo scored two late goals in stoppage time to force extra time.
Karim Benzema converted a penalty in extra time to complete an incredible comeback, sending Madrid to the final, which they won against Liverpool (1-0).
8. Winning La Decimocuarta (14th Title, 2021-22)
Real Madrid claimed their 14th Champions League title by defeating Liverpool 1-0 in the final, with a goal from Vinícius Jr. and an outstanding performance from goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
