Liverpool Vs Real Madrid 2018: Final Squad Lineups

Oct 30, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 51 views

The 2018 Champions League final between Liverpool and Real Madrid is etched in football history. Real Madrid secured their 13th title with a 3-1 victory, but the match was filled with drama, controversial moments, and stellar performances – and some not-so-stellar ones. A key element of any final is, of course, the squads that each team fields. Let's dive deep into the lineups, analyze the key players, and revisit how their performances shaped the outcome of this epic clash. Understanding the composition of each squad gives us valuable insight into the tactical approaches and the overall narrative of the game. This final wasn't just a game; it was a culmination of a season's hard work, strategic planning, and individual brilliance, making the analysis of the squads all the more compelling. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, each player had a role to play in this high-stakes encounter. Join us as we dissect the Liverpool and Real Madrid squads from that fateful night in Kyiv.

Liverpool's Starting XI and Substitutes

Liverpool's journey to the final was marked by their relentless attacking prowess and high-energy gameplay. Jürgen Klopp's side had captured the hearts of fans with their thrilling performances, and their squad reflected this dynamic approach. Let's break down the starting XI and the substitutes who were ready to make an impact.

Starting XI

Loris Karius (Goalkeeper): Karius's night is one he'd rather forget. His errors proved costly, and unfortunately, he became a central figure in the match's narrative for all the wrong reasons. Despite a decent season, the final highlighted the harsh realities of goalkeeping at the highest level. The pressure of the Champions League final seemed to weigh heavily on him, leading to critical mistakes that altered the course of the game. It's a tough lesson in the unforgiving world of football, where even the smallest error can have monumental consequences. While his teammates fought valiantly, Karius's performance overshadowed their efforts, leaving a lasting impact on the final result. It's a reminder that in football, mental fortitude is just as important as physical skill.
Trent Alexander-Arnold (Right-Back): A young and promising talent, Alexander-Arnold showcased his potential on the biggest stage. His defensive work and forward runs were crucial to Liverpool's play. At such a young age, playing in a Champions League final is a testament to his skill and composure. He faced a formidable challenge against Real Madrid's attacking players, and while he had moments of brilliance, the experience would undoubtedly serve as a valuable learning opportunity. His performance demonstrated the promise of a future star, even amidst the disappointment of the loss. The final was a crucible that tested his abilities and resilience, shaping him into the player he is today. It's clear that Alexander-Arnold's journey was just beginning, and this experience would fuel his determination to reach even greater heights.
Dejan Lovren (Center-Back): Lovren formed a partnership with Van Dijk at the heart of Liverpool's defense. His performance was solid, though the team's defensive frailties were exposed on the night. He faced the daunting task of containing Real Madrid's attacking threats, and while he put in a commendable effort, the sheer quality of the opposition proved difficult to handle. The final highlighted the importance of defensive solidity in high-stakes matches, and Lovren's performance underscored the challenges of defending against world-class players. Despite the loss, his contribution to Liverpool's journey to the final should not be overlooked. He played a vital role in the team's defensive setup, and his experience was crucial in navigating the challenges of the competition. The final was a learning experience for him, reinforcing the need for unwavering focus and resilience.
Virgil van Dijk (Center-Back): Van Dijk, a transformative signing for Liverpool, brought stability and composure to the defense. His presence was a calming influence, but even he couldn't prevent Real Madrid's attacks. His leadership and defensive prowess were evident throughout the match, but the collective strength of Real Madrid's attack ultimately proved too much to overcome. The final highlighted the importance of having a world-class defender, and Van Dijk's performance showcased his exceptional abilities. Despite the loss, his impact on Liverpool's defense was undeniable, and he would continue to be a cornerstone of their success in the years to come. The final was a testament to his individual brilliance, even in the face of defeat. His presence on the field instilled confidence in his teammates, and his leadership was crucial in maintaining the team's spirit.
Andrew Robertson (Left-Back): Robertson's energy and tenacity were on full display as he tirelessly worked up and down the left flank. His defensive contributions and attacking support were vital to Liverpool's game plan. He faced a tough challenge against Real Madrid's attacking players, but he never wavered in his commitment to the team. The final showcased his relentless work ethic and his ability to contribute both defensively and offensively. Despite the loss, his performance was a testament to his determination and his importance to Liverpool's squad. He would continue to be a key player for Liverpool, known for his tireless running and his ability to create opportunities for his teammates. The final was a valuable learning experience for him, reinforcing the need for unwavering focus and resilience.
Jordan Henderson (Midfielder): As captain, Henderson led by example, working tirelessly in midfield. His energy and determination were crucial in Liverpool's efforts to control the game. He battled hard against Real Madrid's midfield maestros, and his leadership was evident throughout the match. The final highlighted his importance to Liverpool's squad, both on and off the field. Despite the loss, his commitment to the team was unwavering, and he continued to inspire his teammates with his relentless work ethic. He would go on to lead Liverpool to further success, cementing his legacy as one of the club's great captains. The final was a testament to his leadership qualities, even in the face of defeat. His presence on the field instilled confidence in his teammates, and his determination was crucial in maintaining the team's spirit.
James Milner (Midfielder): Milner's experience and versatility were invaluable to Liverpool. He provided stability in midfield and contributed defensively. His work rate and tactical awareness were crucial in Liverpool's efforts to contain Real Madrid's attacking threats. The final showcased his ability to perform at the highest level, even at an advanced age. Despite the loss, his contribution to Liverpool's squad was significant, and his experience was invaluable in guiding the younger players. He continued to be a reliable presence for Liverpool, known for his versatility and his unwavering commitment to the team. The final was a testament to his professionalism and his ability to adapt to different roles within the team.
Georginio Wijnaldum (Midfielder): Wijnaldum's dynamism and work rate were important in Liverpool's midfield. He contributed both defensively and in attack, though he didn't have a major impact on the game. He worked tirelessly to support his teammates, but the collective strength of Real Madrid's midfield proved difficult to overcome. The final highlighted the importance of having a strong and balanced midfield, and Wijnaldum's performance underscored the challenges of competing against world-class players. Despite the loss, his contribution to Liverpool's journey to the final should not be overlooked. He played a vital role in the team's midfield, and his versatility was crucial in adapting to different tactical situations. The final was a learning experience for him, reinforcing the need for unwavering focus and resilience.
Mohamed Salah (Forward): Salah's injury early in the game was a major blow to Liverpool's hopes. Before his exit, he was a constant threat, but the shoulder injury sustained in a challenge with Sergio Ramos forced him off. His absence significantly weakened Liverpool's attack and altered the course of the match. The final was a cruel reminder of the unpredictable nature of football, where injuries can derail even the best-laid plans. Despite the disappointment of his premature exit, Salah's contribution to Liverpool's season was undeniable. He had been a prolific goalscorer and a key player in their attacking lineup. The final was a setback, but it would only fuel his determination to return stronger and lead Liverpool to future success. His injury was a turning point in the match, shifting the momentum in Real Madrid's favor.
Roberto Firmino (Forward): Firmino's work rate and link-up play were crucial to Liverpool's attacking game. He worked hard but couldn't find a breakthrough against Real Madrid's defense. He faced a tough challenge against Real Madrid's experienced defenders, and while he put in a commendable effort, the opportunities were limited. The final highlighted the importance of having a clinical finisher, and Firmino's performance underscored the challenges of breaking down a well-organized defense. Despite the loss, his contribution to Liverpool's journey to the final should not be overlooked. He played a vital role in the team's attacking setup, and his work rate was crucial in creating opportunities for his teammates. The final was a learning experience for him, reinforcing the need for unwavering focus and resilience.
Sadio Mané (Forward): Mané was Liverpool's most potent attacking threat on the night, scoring their only goal. His pace and trickery caused problems for Real Madrid's defense. He showcased his exceptional talent and his ability to perform under pressure. The final highlighted his importance to Liverpool's squad, and his goal provided a glimmer of hope amidst the disappointment of the loss. He continued to be a key player for Liverpool, known for his electrifying pace and his clinical finishing. The final was a testament to his individual brilliance, even in the face of defeat. His performance inspired his teammates and demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the team.

Substitutes

Simon Mignolet (Goalkeeper): Unused substitute.
Nathaniel Clyne (Defender): Unused substitute.
Ragnar Klavan (Defender): Unused substitute.
Alberto Moreno (Defender): Unused substitute.
Emre Can (Midfielder): Came on as a substitute, adding energy to the midfield.
Dominic Solanke (Forward): Unused substitute.
Adam Lallana (Midfielder): Came on as a substitute, but couldn't influence the game significantly.

Real Madrid's Starting XI and Substitutes

Real Madrid, under Zinedine Zidane, were aiming for their third consecutive Champions League title. Their squad was packed with experience and world-class talent. Let's examine their lineup and the players who came off the bench.

Starting XI

Keylor Navas (Goalkeeper): Navas had a solid game, making crucial saves to deny Liverpool's attackers. His experience and composure were vital in Real Madrid's defensive efforts. The final showcased his ability to perform under pressure, and his saves proved crucial in securing the victory. He continued to be a reliable presence in Real Madrid's goal, known for his agility and his shot-stopping abilities. The final was a testament to his professionalism and his ability to rise to the occasion.
Dani Carvajal (Right-Back): Carvajal's injury in the first half was a setback for Real Madrid. Before his exit, he was solid defensively and offered support in attack. His absence forced a reshuffle in the defense, but Real Madrid were able to adapt. The final was a reminder of the unpredictable nature of football, where injuries can disrupt even the best-laid plans. Despite the disappointment of his premature exit, Carvajal's contribution to Real Madrid's season was undeniable. He had been a consistent performer and a key player in their defensive lineup. The final was a setback, but he would return stronger and continue to be a valuable asset to the team.
Raphaël Varane (Center-Back): Varane was a rock in Real Madrid's defense, making crucial interceptions and tackles. His partnership with Sergio Ramos was key to containing Liverpool's attack. The final showcased his exceptional defensive skills and his ability to read the game. He continued to be a cornerstone of Real Madrid's defense, known for his pace, his strength, and his aerial ability. The final was a testament to his individual brilliance and his importance to the team.
Sergio Ramos (Center-Back): Ramos, the captain, was a commanding presence in defense. His challenge on Salah was controversial, but his leadership and defensive qualities were undeniable. He marshaled the defense effectively and contributed to Real Madrid's overall solidity. The final highlighted his importance to Real Madrid's squad, both on and off the field. He continued to be a dominant force in defense, known for his tackling, his aerial ability, and his leadership qualities. The final was a testament to his experience and his ability to perform under pressure.
Marcelo (Left-Back): Marcelo's attacking prowess was on full display as he constantly bombed forward, creating opportunities for Real Madrid. His defensive work was also solid. He was a constant threat to Liverpool's defense, and his crosses created numerous scoring chances. The final showcased his exceptional attacking skills and his ability to contribute both defensively and offensively. He continued to be a key player for Real Madrid, known for his dribbling, his passing, and his crossing ability. The final was a testament to his individual brilliance and his importance to the team.
Casemiro (Midfielder): Casemiro provided a shield for the defense, breaking up Liverpool's attacks and winning possession. His defensive work was crucial to Real Madrid's success. He patrolled the midfield tirelessly, disrupting Liverpool's flow and protecting the back four. The final highlighted his importance to Real Madrid's squad, particularly in a defensive capacity. He continued to be a vital cog in Real Madrid's midfield, valued for his tackling, his interceptions, and his positional sense. The final was a testament to his discipline and his ability to execute his role effectively.
Luka Modrić (Midfielder): Modrić's vision and passing range were instrumental in Real Madrid's midfield dominance. He controlled the tempo of the game and created numerous scoring opportunities. His ability to dictate play and unlock defenses was crucial to Real Madrid's attacking strategy. The final showcased his exceptional technical skills and his ability to perform under pressure. He continued to be a key player for Real Madrid, known for his passing, his dribbling, and his vision. The final was a testament to his individual brilliance and his importance to the team.
Toni Kroos (Midfielder): Kroos, like Modrić, provided composure and precision in midfield. His passing accuracy and tactical awareness were key to Real Madrid's control of the game. He orchestrated Real Madrid's attacks with his pinpoint passes and his ability to read the game. The final highlighted his importance to Real Madrid's squad, particularly in a creative capacity. He continued to be a vital cog in Real Madrid's midfield, valued for his passing range, his tactical awareness, and his composure. The final was a testament to his professionalism and his ability to execute his role effectively.
Isco (Forward): Isco's creativity and dribbling skills added flair to Real Madrid's attack. He linked up well with his teammates and created scoring chances. He was a constant threat to Liverpool's defense, and his ability to beat defenders created space for his teammates. The final showcased his exceptional technical skills and his ability to perform under pressure. He continued to be a valuable asset to Real Madrid, known for his dribbling, his passing, and his creativity. The final was a testament to his individual brilliance and his versatility.
Karim Benzema (Forward): Benzema scored Real Madrid's opening goal, capitalizing on Karius's mistake. His movement and finishing were crucial to Real Madrid's attacking success. He led the line effectively and created opportunities for his teammates. The final highlighted his importance to Real Madrid's squad, particularly in a goal-scoring capacity. He continued to be a key player for Real Madrid, known for his finishing, his movement, and his link-up play. The final was a testament to his experience and his ability to perform under pressure.
Cristiano Ronaldo (Forward): While Ronaldo didn't score, his presence was a constant threat to Liverpool's defense. His movement and aerial ability kept the defenders on their toes. He drew the attention of Liverpool's defenders, creating space for his teammates. The final showcased his exceptional talent and his ability to influence the game, even without scoring. He continued to be a key player for Real Madrid, known for his goal-scoring record, his athleticism, and his determination. The final was a testament to his individual brilliance and his importance to the team.

Substitutes

Kiko Casilla (Goalkeeper): Unused substitute.
Theo Hernández (Defender): Unused substitute.
Nacho (Defender): Came on as a substitute.
Marco Asensio (Midfielder): Came on as a substitute.
Lucas Vázquez (Forward): Came on as a substitute after Carvajal's injury, providing energy and defensive cover.
Gareth Bale (Forward): Came on as a substitute and scored two goals, including a stunning overhead kick.
Mateo Kovačić (Midfielder): Unused substitute.

Key Moments and Tactical Analysis

The injury to Mohamed Salah early in the game significantly impacted Liverpool's attacking threat. Real Madrid's experience and tactical flexibility allowed them to control the game, especially in midfield. Gareth Bale's introduction proved to be a game-changer, with his two goals securing the victory for Real Madrid. The goalkeeping errors also played a crucial role in the outcome of the match. Real Madrid's ability to capitalize on Liverpool's mistakes and their overall squad depth were key factors in their triumph.

Conclusion

The 2018 Champions League final was a match filled with drama, controversy, and moments of brilliance. Real Madrid's squad depth and experience ultimately proved too much for Liverpool to handle. The game showcased the importance of key players, tactical flexibility, and mental fortitude in high-stakes encounters. While Liverpool's journey to the final was commendable, Real Madrid's dominance in the competition continued with their 13th title. The final will be remembered for its unforgettable moments and the contrasting fortunes of the two squads.