The 2022 UEFA Champions League final was not a classic but had several intense moments. The game was delayed by more than 30 minutes as several fans were unable to enter the Stade de France.
Once the match got underway, Liverpool were the dominant side throughout the encounter. However, it was Real Madrid who emerged victorious like they had done 13 more times in the past.
Apart from creating and breaking several records, it was a wonderful night for Thibaut Courtois. The Real Madrid shot-stopper had a stellar night, denying Sadio Mane, and particularly Mo Salah time several times.
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It is not an understatement to suggest that Courtois was the key reason why Los Blancos were crowned champions on the night.
After the match, he gave a bombastic interview, demanding “respect.” Nevertheless, it was one of the all-time great performances by a goalkeeper in Champions League final history.
In honour of Courtois, FootTheBall recalls the several greats who went before him and how they cemented their name in folklore.
Fabien Barthez (Marseille) vs AC Milan – 1993
The first-ever Champions League final pitted one of the strongest squads in football, AC Milan, against Marseille. Barthez was just 22-years-old, having joined the French giants in 1992.
Up against him were Marco van Basten, Frank Rijkaard, Roberto Donadoni, among others. Barthez would more than hold up his own against the bonafide stars, as Basile Boli’s goal before halftime would prove to be the game-winner.
Moving on to day three of “Do You Remember?” OM edition 🙌
Fabien Barthez. The French legend had two stints with @OM_English, once with hair and once without.
Considered one of the greatest keepers to ever play the game, Barthez was only 21 when Marseille won the UCL in 1993. pic.twitter.com/sxFZAADrxr
— TheSoccerMinute (@soccer_minute) August 26, 2020
Milan would…
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