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Borussia Dortmund have reached the Champions League final, 16 years after winning the trophy in 1997.
Dortmund set out with a huge task after being placed in the ‘group of death’. But as German Bundesliga Champions they displayed their strengths to progress as group winners, ahead of Real Madrid, Ajax and Manchester City. Now their Road To Wembley is complete after a frantic finish in Spain, where Madrid came within a goal of the final themselves, with a 2-0 win ultimately proving too little too late.
The German side have undoubtedly made a lot of friends in the footballing world this season, having produced exciting and passionate performances. But most importantly, they have reached Wembley after having been initially seen as realistic underdogs.
Dortmund will now go to the final to face either Barcelona or Bayern Munich, with it looking like the latter most likely. Dortmund this round showed the clear evidence of their dangers and will be one part of what will hopefully be a classic final.
The semi-final tonight was a classic itself, with Dortmund holding out at 0-0 until the last 10 minute rush from Madrid. Jurgen Klopp‘s men have achieved something really special this season, as they have pushed aside clubs with market power and a backing of wealth to reach the London final. They’ve done so in fine style, too, with eight goals coming in their four games vs Jose Mourinho‘s side. With the main attacking threats of Mario Gotze, Marco Reus and the lethal Robert Lewandowski, Europe has stood up and taken notice of the emerging young side who are now on the brink of greatness.
There is no denying that most are finding Dortmund slightly irresistible, with their full confidence throughout that they and Klopp are capable of beating anyone.
Stowe Gregory is an English featured Soccer and Sports writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him or tweet on Twitter @stowegregory. Or add to circles on Google +
You can read about his piece on ‘The appeal of Borrussia Dortmund’ here.
