Real Madrid – VfB Stuttgart: Individuals Initiate Success Amid Struggle (1-3)

Real Madrid went back to the top of the European game with a 2-0 triumph in the Champions League final over a German club. Their assault on a 16th title took off from where their latest success settled down, tabulating three points despite a display that did not convince spectators.

Tactical analysis and match report by Emmanuel Adeyemi-Abere.

No one can doubt that Real Madrid are the kings of the continent. Only a few months ago, they beat Borussia Dortmund to claim their second Champions League crown in the last three years. But with opportunity comes responsibility. The camp cannot afford to fail with its complement of stars. Having lost only two games last season, the reigning champions are already four points behind Barcelona at the top of the table in LaLiga. It was imperative to secure a victory at the start of this tournament.

A trip to the Bernabéu marks a magical return to the grand stage for VfB Stuttgart. The runners-up in the Bundesliga are back in this competition for the first time in 15 years. They must compete without top scorer Serhou Guirassy or captain Waldemar Anton, who have exited the club to join Dortmund. Their campaign has been mixed: a tight DFL Supercup contest preceded a win, draw, and loss in their first three league matches. However, the Germans will . . .