Dortmund or Madrid: Where Does the UCL Trophy Go in 2024?

Europe’s top football tournament is coming to an end with a surprising contender for the title. Borussia Dortmund has baffled everyone this year. It knocked big names like PSV and PSG out of the tournament, reaching the final stage of the competition. Now, in turn, the Schwarzgelben face a formidable foe: Real Madrid.

What can we expect from this year’s spectacular final? Which team should you bet your money on at your next visit to Betway?

Dortmund's Defiant Run: Can They Complete the Upset?

Borussia Dortmund has taken the 2024 UEFA Champions League by storm. The Schwarzgelben have knocked out giants like PSV and PSG with their blend of resolute defending and timely scoring. Center-back Mats Hummels, a veteran from Dortmund’s last UCL final, has been crucial in shutting down forwards like Mbappá. Their path to the final has been marked by a combination of tactical discipline and a bit of luck, with PSG hitting the post several times in their semifinal clash. Now, they face the ultimate test against a Real Madrid squad brimming with attacking talent. Will Dortmund’s underdog story have a fairy-tale ending?

Real Madrid's Dominance: Another Chapter in UCL Glory?

Real Madrid is no stranger to the magic of the Champions League. Los Blancos have lifted the trophy 14 times, including an astonishing four titles since 2015. Their journey to the 2024 final has been a testament to their resilience and star power. They battled through a knockout gauntlet, overcoming RB Leipzig, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich. The semifinal victory over Bayern was particularly dramatic. Substitute Joselu scored twice in four minutes to secure a 4-3 aggregate win.

Madrid’s squad is full of talent, from Vinicius Junior to Jude Bellingham. The latter will be especially motivated, playing the final on home soil against his former club, Borussia Dortmund. Can Real Madrid add another chapter to their storied UCL history?

Who Holds the Edge? Analyzing the Odds

As the final approaches, the odds heavily favour Real Madrid. Their attacking prowess, depth of talent, and experience in high-stakes matches make them the clear favourites. Vinicius Junior, who netted the game-winning goal against Liverpool two years ago, and Bellingham will shine on the grand stage.

On the other hand, Dortmund’s best attackers, like Fullkrug and Malen, would be secondary threats compared to Madrid’s offence. For Dortmund to have a chance, they need to execute a perfect defensive game plan and capitalize on their rare scoring opportunities. A lot like they did in their semifinal against PSG.

While Real Madrid's overwhelming talent suggests a likely victory, the unpredictability of football means Dortmund’s dreams of lifting the trophy can't be dismissed.

Will it be the favourites or the dark horses who triumph at Wembley? The world waits with bated breath.