UEFA’s technical observers have chosen Real Madrid’s Gareth Bale as their UEFA Champions League final man of the match.

Brought on in the 61st minute, the Welshman scored a stunning overhead kick to restore his side’s lead, and the 28-year-old’s long-range shot on 83 minutes then put the game beyond Jürgen Klopp’s Liverpool.

Peter Rudbæk, representing the technical observer group, said: “The observers chose Bale due to his game-changing display off the bench and his outstanding acrobatic goal to put his team ahead.”


Bale on his amazing overhead kick

Gareth Bale, man of the match: “To score a goal like that on the biggest stage in world football is a dream come true. I’ve never actually scored a bicycle kick – I’ve had many attempts! – and it’s been something I’ve always wanted to do. I remember Marcelo clipping the ball and it was just at the right height – it was great to get the right connection and see it hit the back of the net.”

Previous men of the match

2017: Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid)
2016: Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid)
2015: Andrés Iniesta (Barcelona)
2014: Ángel Di María (Real Madrid)
2013: Arjen Robben (Bayern München)
2012: Didier Drogba (Chelsea)
2011: Lionel Messi (Barcelona)
2010: Diego Milito (Inter Milan)
2009: Xavi Hernández (Barcelona)
2008: Edwin van der Sar (Manchester United)
2007: Filippo Inzaghi (AC Milan)
2006: Samuel Eto’o (Barcelona)
2005: Steven Gerrard (Liverpool)
2004: Deco (Porto)
2003: Paolo Maldini (AC Milan)
2002: Zinédine Zidane (Real Madrid)
2001: Oliver Kahn (Bayern München)


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