Toni Kroos reveals ‘crucial factor’ in Real Madrid’s Champions League final victory over Borussia Dortmund as retiring legend signs off in perfect fashion

Toni Kroos reveals 'crucial factor' in Real Madrid's Champions League final victory over Borussia Dortmund as retiring legend signs off in perfect fashion
  • Kroos departs Real Madrid
  • Madrid beat Dortmund 2-0
  • Kroos to play final game in football at home Euros

WHAT HAPPENED?

Kroos explained that going into half-time goalless gave Madrid the belief that they had seen off Dortmund and would win the game in the second-half. The midfielder has won all there is to win and added his sixth Champions League title to his collection. The German swung in the corner that provided the assist for Dani Carvajal’s opening goal and leaves Madrid as a club legend.

Toni Kroos Real Madrid 2023-24

WHAT KROOS SAID

Speaking after the game, Kroos said: “The decisive factor was that we didn’t concede a goal in the first half. That would have been more than possible. It took a long time before we were the better team.”

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Dortmund were the stronger side for long-spells in the first-half and were unlucky to not be leading through Karim Adeyemi and Niclas Fullkrug. The former fluffed a chance to round Thibaut Courtois before Fullkrug’s effort hit the inside of the post and bounced out. Had Dortmund gone into the break a goal or two clear of Madrid, it may well have been a different story.

Toni Kroos Germany 2024

WHAT NEXT FOR KROOS?

Kroos came out of international retirement to return for Germany in March. He is set to start in the heart of the Germany midfield at their home European Championships and will be dreaming of lifting yet another trophy before hanging up his boots.