The UEFA Champions League trophy has made its grand entrance in London, setting the stage for an exhilarating final between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund at Wembley Stadium this Saturday.
John Obi Mikel, the celebrated European champion with Chelsea in 2012, proudly carried the prestigious trophy onto the main stage at Trafalgar Square, igniting excitement among football fans.
Real Madrid, the record holders with 14 European titles, enter the final unbeaten in their last four encounters against Dortmund. Meanwhile, Borussia Dortmund, who clinched the Champions League in 1997, have a strong recent record against Real, securing back-to-back victories during the 2017-18 group stage.
A giant replica of the trophy was prominently displayed outside the National Gallery, attracting fans eager to capture memorable photos before the big match. The vibrant atmosphere included a five-a-side game at Trafalgar Square, where London Mayor Sadiq Khan joined in the festivities, posing for pictures with a local girls' team.
As anticipation builds, fans from around the world are converging in London to witness two of Europe's football powerhouses vie for glory, making this final a truly global event.
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UEFA Champions League trophy on display in London ahead of final
cgtn.com