The 2014 UEFA Champions League final was a legendary match, a clash of titans between two Madrid rivals, Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid. The game was filled with drama, tension, and incredible moments, eventually culminating in a 4-1 victory for Real Madrid after extra time. But amidst all the stars on the pitch, one question lingers in the minds of football fans: Who was named Man of the Match?

The Contenders for Man of the Match

Before we reveal the official winner, let's consider some of the top contenders for the prestigious award.

Gareth Bale

Gareth Bale, the Welsh wizard, had a significant impact on the game. He scored the crucial go-ahead goal in extra time, putting Real Madrid ahead and shifting the momentum firmly in their favor. His pace, power, and clinical finishing were on full display, making him a constant threat to the Atlético defense. Prior to the match, there were doubts about his form, but Bale proved his critics wrong with a match-winning performance. He terrorized the Atletico defense with his runs and his goal was a testament to his determination and skill. Bale's contribution was undeniable, and he certainly made a strong case for being named Man of the Match.

Sergio Ramos

Sergio Ramos, the heart and soul of Real Madrid's defense, delivered a captain's performance for the ages. Not only was he rock solid at the back, making crucial tackles and interceptions, but he also scored the dramatic late equalizer in injury time to send the game into extra time. His goal sparked wild celebrations and gave Real Madrid the belief they needed to go on and win the match. Ramos's leadership, defensive prowess, and goal-scoring heroics made him a strong contender for the award. His passion and commitment were evident throughout the game, and he inspired his teammates with his never-say-die attitude. Without Ramos's late goal, the outcome of the final could have been very different.

Ángel Di María

Ángel Di María, the Argentine maestro, was a constant thorn in Atlético Madrid's side throughout the match. His dazzling dribbling skills, incisive passes, and tireless work rate created numerous opportunities for Real Madrid's attack. He provided the assist for Bale's crucial goal in extra time, showcasing his vision and creativity. Di María's performance was full of energy and flair, and he consistently troubled the Atlético defense. He was a driving force in Real Madrid's attack, and his contribution was vital to their victory. Many fans and pundits believed that Di María was the standout performer on the night.

Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese superstar, despite not being at his absolute best due to injury concerns, still played a vital role in Real Madrid's triumph. He converted a late penalty in extra time to seal the victory and put the result beyond doubt. While he wasn't as influential as he often is, his presence on the pitch was enough to worry the Atlético defense. Ronaldo's goal was his 17th in the Champions League that season, setting a new record for the most goals scored in a single campaign. Even though he wasn't at 100%, his clinical finishing and goal-scoring instinct were still on display.

The Official Man of the Match: Ángel Di María

Ultimately, the UEFA technical team selected Ángel Di María as the Man of the Match. His electrifying performance, tireless running, and crucial assist for Bale's goal made him the standout player on the pitch. Di María's ability to create chances, beat defenders, and link up with his teammates was instrumental in Real Madrid's victory. His performance was a testament to his skill, determination, and work ethic. The award was a fitting recognition of his contribution to Real Madrid's tenth Champions League title, La Décima.

Why Di María Deserved the Award

There are several reasons why Ángel Di María was a deserving winner of the Man of the Match award:

• Constant Threat: Di María was a constant threat to the Atlético defense, using his pace and dribbling skills to create problems. He consistently beat defenders and created space for his teammates.
• Assist for Crucial Goal: He provided the assist for Gareth Bale's crucial go-ahead goal in extra time, showcasing his vision and creativity.
• Tireless Work Rate: Di María worked tirelessly throughout the match, tracking back to defend and pressing the Atlético defense. His energy and commitment were vital to Real Madrid's success.
• Overall Impact: Di María had a significant impact on the game, influencing the attack and defense. His performance was full of energy, flair, and determination.

The Significance of La Décima

Real Madrid's victory in the 2014 Champions League final was particularly significant because it secured their tenth European Cup title, La Décima. The pursuit of La Décima had become an obsession for the club and its fans, and the victory was celebrated wildly in Madrid. The final against Atlético Madrid was a tense and dramatic affair, but Real Madrid ultimately prevailed, cementing their place in football history. The victory marked a new era of success for the club, and it was a testament to the talent and determination of the players and coaching staff.

Other Memorable Moments from the Final

Besides Di María's Man of the Match performance, the 2014 Champions League final was filled with other memorable moments:

• Godín's Opening Goal: Diego Godín's first-half header gave Atlético Madrid the lead and put them in a strong position to win the match.
• Ramos's Late Equalizer: Sergio Ramos's dramatic late equalizer in injury time sent the game into extra time and sparked wild celebrations among Real Madrid fans.
• Bale's Go-Ahead Goal: Gareth Bale's header in extra time put Real Madrid ahead and shifted the momentum firmly in their favor.
• Ronaldo's Penalty: Cristiano Ronaldo's late penalty sealed the victory for Real Madrid and put the result beyond doubt.

Conclusion

The 2014 Champions League final was a truly unforgettable match, filled with drama, tension, and incredible moments. While several players could have been in contention for the Man of the Match award, Ángel Di María ultimately emerged as the deserving winner. His electrifying performance, tireless work rate, and crucial assist made him the standout player on the pitch. The final will forever be remembered as the night Real Madrid secured La Décima, their tenth European Cup title, cementing their place in football history. It was a game that showcased the passion, skill, and drama of the beautiful game. Guys, what a game it was!