Brazilian legend Rivaldo is backing underdogs Borussia Dortmund to claim victory in this weekend’s Champions League final.
The German side meet Real Madrid at Wembley for the chance to win Europe’s top honour and they are up against it with the 14-time winners standing in their way.
Dortmund beat Paris Saint-Germain to make it to the final while Los Blancos narrowly overcame Bayern Munich.
Madrid’s dominance in LaLiga makes them heavy favourites for the bout in the English capital but that does not guarantee them the coveted prize.
They are the pinnacle of European pedigree but Dortmund are no pushovers and are out for revenge at Wembley.
11 years ago they met their Bundesliga rivals Bayern at the same stadium and lost in heartbreaking fashion.
Which captain will lift the trophy this time? #UCLfinal pic.twitter.com/d2u36bxMOx
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) May 30, 2024
But there is hope among the BVB fanbase that they can achieve something spectacular this weekend and Rivaldo believes they will get the job done.
Speaking to Betfair, he said: “Real are the favourites for the final.
“A few weeks ago, I said it would be Real Madrid vs Borussia, so I got the final right!
“However, I also said the champions would be Borussia. I think Madrid are favourites, for sure, but Borussia are coming with so much belief.
“They know how to play this competition, they know how to play in difficult games. We saw it in the two games they played against PSG, winning both legs.
“Yes, Real Madrid are the favourites, but I’m still with Borussia Dortmund to be the crowned champions.”
For Dortmund 🖤💛
🎨 @17thandoak || #UCLfinal pic.twitter.com/YScOb3QGYU
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) May 30, 2024
Marco Reus will be playing his final game for Dortmund and is hopeful he can cause an upset and sign off in style.
Madrid are the most fearsome opponent you could face in a European final and there is a feeling that Dortmund will have to play the perfect game to get the job done.
Rivaldo added; “We cannot ignore the number of titles they have won in club football’s biggest competition.
“They should be congratulated for everything they have achieved in this competition. It’s a team that knows how to play Champions League.”
Everything you need to know
If you want to watch the action unfold this weekend, TNT Sports are streaming the Champions League final for free. You can find all the information you need about kick-off time, as well as a match preview, in this article.
If you fancy spicing things up while the game is on, we have put together a betting preview. The link below provides all the best sign-up
18+ Gambling Can Be Addictive. Please Play Responsibly. BeGambleAware GamStop Gambling Commission offers and odds ahead of the big match.