Sporting has broken Palma's European dominance by winning the Champions League final. Four years of Mallorcan rule came to an end in a match where the reigning champion did not show its best form. Two unfortunate plays, including a rebound and a defensive error, condemned Palma and crowned a Sporting team that knew how to seize the opportunities.
Tactical analysis: the key was high pressing and opponents' mistakes 🧠
Sporting played an intelligent match based on high pressing that neutralized Palma's ball distribution. The possession statistics were misleading, as the champion team created danger in quick transitions. The first goal came from a cross that a defender deflected into his own net. The second, a penalty, originated from a loss of possession in their own half. Palma accumulated 68% possession but only two shots on target.
Palma leaves empty-handed: luck was not on their side 🎭
Palma has spent four years laughing at others' misfortune. But Lady Fortune is a capricious lady who yesterday decided to dress in red and white. Between a ball that hit the crossbar, a shot that grazed the post, and two clear goals, Palma's players ended up with the same expression as a child whose ice cream has been stolen. Next time, perhaps they won't take the Champions League for granted before playing it.