This Sunday, June 6th, the 2015 UEFA Champions League Final will take place in the Olympiastadion in Berlin, Germany. Marking the first time Berlin has hosted this final, they will be rewarded with a classic, Barcelona of Spain vs Juventus of Italy. We spoke to Mariano Trujillo and Alex Blanco of Fox Deportes for their thoughts and analysis on this match.
The matchup will pit the offensive firepower provided by Argentine Lionel Messi, Uruguayan Luis Suarez, and Neymar of Brazil. Juventus has the traditional defensive subbornness that will attempt to derail a Barcelona team that may not have a healthy Andres Iniesta in midfield. ”
Barcelona has changed the concept by showing a good player with quality skills can succeed at the highest level.”
Mariano Trujillo explained. Alex Blanco sees Barcelona having the edge for a variety of reasons. ”
Barcelona is plaing better now with the best player in the world, Messi.”
All the inspirational stories appear to be on Barcelona side with Xavi Hernandez playing his final game for Barcelona before heading to Qatar.
“He is just amazing, he’s won everything in Barcelona”
Trujillo said, ”
He’a a talented guy who wants to win one more trophy.”
Lionel Messi, who was extremely disappointed in his failure to win the World Cup last year should be motivated like never before to win the premier club championship in the world of soccer.
“Messi mentally is ready for this challenge.”
Alex Blanco shared,
“He felt bad about not winning the World Cup for Argentina and even felt he didn’t deserve the MVP.”
Messi has grown up has a new baby, he’ more stabile mentally which is a huge part of any athlete’s success.” Trujillo added.
Juventus, the Old Lady has a chance with a tough defense and Andrea Pirlo, a creative player in his own right. He will be essential in counterattacks. “Juventus, as mentioned by their coach, Massimiliano Allegri, need patience and intensity.” Trujillo shared, “Luis Enrique changed Juventus from an attacking team to more of a more balanced defensive team.” Blanco added.
The level of the European game has not been in doubt often when it comes to the World’s game and there are many reasons for this. Both Trujillo and Blanco agree its the highest position you can attain in club soccer.
“Call me crazy but the European Cup is at a better level than the World Cup because players train regularly and are not tired out from club obligations.”
Blanco agrees
“They have the best players and UEFA has the greatest organization.”
The difference in this matchup could very well come down to coaching. But should the game be decided on penalty kicks, the odds of victory will revert to the goalkeepers. They are the last line of defense and in this match as in most championships, the key to victory. “You have to be strong mentally in penalty kicks.” says Trujillo,
“Marc-Andre Ten Stegen is good but young. Gianluigi Buffon has done it all.”
Goalkeepers are the key factor. Its the most important part no one talks about.”
Blanco exclaimed, “Everyone talks about Messi, Suarez, but goalies play an important role.”
