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Borussia Dortmund will face off against Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League Final on Saturday afternoon as they vie for the title of the best team in Europe.
The German club has only claimed the Champions League once in 1996-97 and last reached the final in 2012-13. On the other hand, Madrid boasts the most championship wins in the competition’s history and is aiming to add another title to their impressive collection.
Here’s a breakdown of our Champions League Final odds, picks, and predictions:
Champions League Final odds and preview
The match showcases the underdog, hard-working spirit of Dortmund – not even the biggest club in Germany – against the dominant force that has reigned in the competition for years.
Dortmund enters the match following a 4-0 victory over SV Darmstadt 98 in the Bundesliga. They defeated PSG 1-0 in both semifinal legs and only suffered two defeats in 12 Champions League matches leading up to the final.
Madrid drew their recent matches against Real Betis and Villareal and remained unbeaten in the Champions League. Despite this, they didn’t overpower their opponents, securing three wins (one on penalties) and three draws in their last six competition matches.
Dortmund’s task will be to stand firm in defense and counter the speed of Madrid’s attack. They will also need to utilize their consistent teamwork to overcome Madrid’s experience in the competition.
This match marks the final appearance for Dortmund’s club legend Marco Reus, who has been with the team since 2012. Madrid’s Toni Kroos will also retire after the match, boasting one of the most impressive midfield resumes.
The match will be broadcast on CBS at 3 p.m. Eastern on Saturday, June 1.
Dortmund vs. Real Madrid predictions: Dortmund to emerge victorious (+250 or better)
Despite Madrid’s superior team on paper and experience, Dortmund demonstrated greater prowess in the semifinals with back-to-back wins over PSG and carries added motivation from their history in the competition compared to Madrid’s dominance.
The German club excels in counter-attacking and possesses forwards who can challenge Madrid’s defense, which often pushes up the field due to ball possession.
The midfield battle will play a crucial role in determining the outcome. Madrid holds the technical edge but tends to push players forward, potentially leading to midfield fatigue later in the game.
Madrid has relied on late-game heroics to reach the final, showcasing their ability to deliver in crucial moments. However, Dortmund has consistently handled their business without deviating from their unassuming approach.
Champions League Final prop bets: Real Madrid to earn over 4.5 corners (+132 or better)
Dortmund’s center-backs, Mats Hummels and Nico Schlotterbeck, may not be the fastest duo, and their wing defenders might struggle against Madrid’s pacey attackers. Exploiting the wings will be key for Madrid.
The German team is likely to adopt a deeper defensive line without possession and concede possession, as seen against PSG. This approach should provide Madrid with opportunities on the wings.
There is concern that a deep defensive block could hinder Madrid’s attack, but their wide players excel in taking on defenders, increasing the chances of exceeding the total corners.
Best Champions League betting sites
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Grant is a writer for Catena Media based in Virginia. He graduated from Virginia Tech in 2021 with a degree in sports media & analytics and has contributed to publications like Forbes and appeared on the VSiN TV network. Follow Grant’s work here or on his YouTube channel “The Sitch With Grant Mitchell.”