David Cullinane reviews all the action from Europe’s continental cup finals, including Barcelona’s win over Athletic Bilbao.
DFB-Pokal (Germany)
Borussia Dortmund 1-3 Wolfsburg
Not a classic in many ways but it did throw up some fascinating talking points. Jurgen Klopp leaves Dortmund without that fairytale ending but there were magical scenes for Wolfsburg, who won their first ever DFB-Pokal.
Potentially future Manchester United players Ilkay Gundogan and Mats Hummels may also make Louis van Gaal question their ability. Their performances left a lot to be desired.
On Wolfsburg’s side, former Chelsea player Kevin De Bruyne, who was never given a fair shot while in London, had a wonderful game, showing why he is the assist king of Europe. However, this result means that Dortmund must go through the qualification process of the Europa League if they are to harbour any chances of European football next season.
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Coupe De France(France)
AJ Auxerre 0-1 PSG
In what was almost a non-event for an international audience, PSG completed the double in the Stade De France last night. It was a typical French Cup final – boring, tedious and definitely not worth the stage a cup final should be on.
An Edinson Cavani goal secured PSG the cup but also seems to have secured him a new contract, according to goal.com. In what has been a good season for PSG, the domestic double may compensate for their disappointing Champions League defeat to Barcelona.
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Copa Del Rey (Spain)
FC Barcelona 3-1 Athletic Club Bilbao
In what was a magical night for all Barca fans, they topped off the build up to the Champions League final with the domestic double. Lionel Messi, once again, stole the show with one of the greatest goals the world has ever seen.
The stadium was also a sight to behold. The Camp Nou was split 50/50 in Athletic red/white and Barca’s blue/red. This complete performance shows us how fortunate we are to be able to witness such a perfect, complete and fluid football team in their prime.
Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar have, in one season, cemented their position as one of the greatest front threes of all time. The Copa Del Rey has thrown up some magical and tantalising games over the years but, this complete performance from Barcelona may be the most special yet.
David Cullinane, Pundit Arena