Liverpool Vs Real Madrid: 2022 UCL Final Stats & Key Highlights

by Jhon Lennon 64 views

The 2022 UEFA Champions League final between Liverpool and Real Madrid was a match filled with tension, tactical battles, and ultimately, a victory for the Spanish giants. This article dives deep into the Liverpool vs Real Madrid UCL final 2022 stats, offering a comprehensive overview of the key moments, player performances, and underlying data that defined the game. For fans and analysts alike, understanding these crucial stats provides valuable insights into why Real Madrid secured their 14th Champions League title.

Match Summary

The final took place on May 28, 2022, at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, just outside of Paris. Real Madrid emerged victorious with a 1-0 scoreline, but the match was far from one-sided. Liverpool dominated possession and created numerous scoring opportunities, only to be thwarted by an outstanding performance from Real Madrid's goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois. VinĂ­cius JĂșnior scored the decisive goal in the 59th minute, capitalizing on one of Real Madrid's few clear-cut chances. Despite Liverpool's relentless pressure, Real Madrid's experience and tactical discipline saw them through to lift the trophy.

Key Stats and Figures

Overall Statistics

Let's delve into the detailed stats that paint a picture of the game:

  • Possession: Liverpool 54% - 46% Real Madrid
  • Shots: Liverpool 24 - 9 Real Madrid
  • Shots on Target: Liverpool 9 - 3 Real Madrid
  • Corners: Liverpool 5 - 2 Real Madrid
  • Fouls Committed: Liverpool 9 - 11 Real Madrid
  • Offsides: Liverpool 3 - 1 Real Madrid
  • Pass Accuracy: Liverpool 86% - 82% Real Madrid

These figures clearly indicate Liverpool's dominance in terms of possession and attacking intent. The sheer number of shots and shots on target underscores their offensive pressure. However, Real Madrid's efficiency in converting one of their few chances into a goal proved to be the difference.

Attacking Stats

Liverpool's attacking prowess was evident throughout the match, but they struggled to find the back of the net. Mohamed Salah had six shots, with three hitting the target, but Courtois denied him on each occasion. Sadio ManĂ© also had a couple of promising attempts, one of which was brilliantly saved onto the post by Courtois. Real Madrid, on the other hand, were clinical. Their attacking efficiency was highlighted by VinĂ­cius JĂșnior's goal, which came from a well-timed run and a precise finish. The contrast in attacking efficiency tells a significant part of the story.

Defensive Stats

Real Madrid's defense, led by Éder MilitĂŁo and David Alaba, put in a valiant performance, absorbing wave after wave of Liverpool attacks. Courtois's heroics in goal were the standout defensive highlight, but the entire backline deserves credit for their organization and resilience. Liverpool's defense, while not under as much pressure, had a solid game, limiting Real Madrid's opportunities and keeping them at bay for long periods. However, they were ultimately undone by a moment of defensive lapse that allowed VinĂ­cius JĂșnior to score.

Passing and Possession

Liverpool's higher possession rate reflects their intent to control the game and dictate the tempo. Their passing accuracy of 86% demonstrates their ability to maintain possession and circulate the ball effectively. Real Madrid, while having less possession, were efficient in their use of the ball, often opting for quick transitions and direct attacks. Their passing accuracy of 82% was slightly lower but sufficient for their counter-attacking strategy.

Individual Player Performances

Thibaut Courtois

Thibaut Courtois was undoubtedly the man of the match. His exceptional performance in goal, making nine saves, was pivotal in Real Madrid's victory. Several of his saves were of the highest quality, denying Liverpool's attackers with incredible reflexes and positioning. Courtois's performance will be remembered as one of the greatest goalkeeping displays in a Champions League final.

VinĂ­cius JĂșnior

VinĂ­cius JĂșnior's decisive goal earned him widespread praise. His pace, trickery, and clinical finishing were a constant threat to Liverpool's defense. Beyond the goal, his overall contribution to Real Madrid's attacking play was significant, making him a key player in their triumph.

Mohamed Salah

Mohamed Salah had a frustrating night, despite creating several scoring opportunities. His shots were repeatedly saved by Courtois, denying him the chance to avenge his injury from the 2018 final against Real Madrid. Salah's performance was not lacking in effort or skill, but he was simply unable to overcome Courtois's brilliance.

Sadio Mané

Sadio Mané also had a lively game, testing Real Madrid's defense with his pace and movement. He came close to scoring on a couple of occasions, but Courtois proved to be an insurmountable obstacle. Mané's overall performance was commendable, but like Salah, he was ultimately unable to find the back of the net.

Tactical Analysis

The match was a fascinating tactical battle between JĂŒrgen Klopp and Carlo Ancelotti. Klopp's Liverpool aimed to dominate possession and press high up the pitch, while Ancelotti's Real Madrid adopted a more pragmatic approach, focusing on defensive solidity and quick counter-attacks. Liverpool's high press was effective in winning back possession, but Real Madrid's organized defense and Courtois's heroics prevented them from capitalizing on their opportunities. Real Madrid's counter-attacking strategy proved to be the decisive factor, with VinĂ­cius JĂșnior's goal showcasing their ability to exploit Liverpool's defensive vulnerabilities.

The Decisive Moment

The turning point of the match was undoubtedly VinĂ­cius JĂșnior's goal in the 59th minute. The goal came from a swift Real Madrid attack, with Federico Valverde delivering a low cross that found VinĂ­cius JĂșnior unmarked at the far post. His simple tap-in gave Real Madrid the lead and shifted the momentum of the game. Liverpool responded with increased urgency, but Real Madrid's defense held firm, denying them an equalizer.

Conclusion

The 2022 Champions League final between Liverpool and Real Madrid was a memorable encounter filled with drama, excitement, and tactical intrigue. While Liverpool dominated possession and created more chances, Real Madrid's clinical finishing and defensive resilience proved to be the difference. Thibaut Courtois's outstanding performance in goal will be remembered as one of the greatest individual displays in Champions League history. The Liverpool vs Real Madrid UCL final 2022 stats reveal a story of contrasting styles and ultimately, a victory for the team that was able to capitalize on their opportunities. Real Madrid's 14th Champions League title further cements their status as the kings of European football. Guys, what a game it was!