Luka Modric Dismisses Favourite Tag, Calls Champions League Final A Balanced Battle

Luka Modric has dismissed the idea that Real Madrid are clear favourites to defeat Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League final, describing the match as evenly balanced. Modric could secure his sixth Champions League title on Saturday when Madrid face Dortmund at Wembley Stadium. Despite Madrid finishing 10 points ahead of Barcelona in LaLiga and Dortmund ending up fifth in the Bundesliga, Modric remains cautious.

"Everyone is saying that we're the favourites, but it's not like that; I see a 50-50," Modric stated. "Dortmund are a big club, they have had a great season in the Champions League, and they will make it very difficult for us. We need concentration and to demonstrate on the field that we are capable of beating them."

As Madrid aim to secure their 15th Champions League title, manager Carlo Ancelotti believes his players are already highly motivated. Ancelotti, heading into his eighth European Cup/Champions League final as a player or coach, emphasised the importance of clear communication with his team.

"The priority is to transmit clear ideas to the players. I will be as direct as possible because that's how I feel my players react best pre-game," Ancelotti said. "I will talk about tactics. Emotions come later and everyone deals with them according to their character."

Real Madrid have scored nine goals in the last 15 minutes of play in the 2023/24 Champions League, more than any other team. Borussia Dortmund, along with Benfica and Lazio, have not conceded any goals during this period.

Ancelotti's Approach

Ancelotti highlighted that technical quality and collective sacrifice have been crucial throughout the season. "Before the game there will be negative emotions, but fear is an important part of doing things well; we need to know that," he explained. "I'm confident because over the season the team showed two important features: technical quality and sacrifice. They will be key tomorrow."

Wembley's Historic Role

This final marks Wembley Stadium's eighth European Cup/Champions League final, making it the venue with the most finals in history. It will also become the second venue to host three finals in the Champions League era (2011, 2013, and 2024), following Stade de France (2000, 2006, and 2022).

The anticipation for this match is palpable as both teams prepare for what promises to be a thrilling encounter on one of football's grandest stages.