Despite being integral members of the squad, both players were sidelined for the final due to injuries. Marc-André ter Stegen suffered a torn patellar tendon in his right knee during a match against Villarreal on September 22, 2024. Although he received medical clearance just before the final and was included in the squad, head coach Hansi Flick opted not to risk him. Wojciech Szczęsny, who had been signed during Ter Stegen's recovery period, started in goal and delivered a solid performance. Ronald Araújo underwent surgery for a hamstring injury in July 2024, which kept him out for an extended period. Although he had returned to training and was included in the matchday squad, Flick decided not to field him in the high-stakes final, possibly to avoid any risk of re-injury.
Barcelona took the lead in the 28th minute with a long-range strike from Pedri González. Real Madrid responded with two goals—Kylian Mbappé equalized with a free kick in the 70th minute, and Aurélien Tchouaméni headed in the go-ahead goal. Ferran Torres leveled the match in the 84th minute, forcing extra time. In the 116th minute, Jules Koundé capitalized on a pass from Luka Modrić, firing into the low corner of Thibaut Courtois’ net to secure the victory for Barcelona.
The match was intense and emotionally charged, featuring controversial refereeing moments, including a VAR-overturned penalty and post-match red cards for Real Madrid players Antonio Rüdiger, Lucas Vázquez, and Jude Bellingham. Barcelona's head coach, Hansi Flick, demonstrated sportsmanship by organizing his players to form a guard of honor for Real Madrid as they received their runner-up medals.
With this victory, Barcelona not only secures another trophy but also gains momentum as they lead La Liga and prepare for their Champions League semifinal against Inter Milan.
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