My Greatest 11 - The Blog — UCL
The Youngest Starting XI to Win the UEFA Champions League – Ajax 1994/95
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In 1995, Ajax fielded the youngest starting XI ever to win the UEFA Champions League, defeating AC Milan in the final. With an average age of just 23, this fearless squad—featuring young stars like Seedorf, Kluivert, and Davids—played breathtaking football under Louis van Gaal. Their unbeaten run to the title remains one of the most remarkable achievements in European football history.
The Oldest Starting XI to Win the UEFA Champions League – AC Milan 2006/07
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Experience triumphed over youth as AC Milan’s 2006/07 team became the oldest starting XI to win the UEFA Champions League. With an average age of 31 years, Milan’s legendary squad—including Maldini, Pirlo, and Inzaghi—avenged their 2005 heartbreak by defeating Liverpool 2-1 in the final. Their victory was a testament to tactical intelligence, leadership, and resilience, proving that footballing wisdom can still conquer Europe’s biggest stage.
Thierry Henry: Arsenal's Record-Breaking Night in Prague – 18/10/2005
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October 18, 2005, will forever be etched in the memory of Arsenal fans as the night Thierry Henry cemented his place as the club's greatest-ever goalscorer. In a UEFA Champions League group stage clash against Sparta Prague, Henry’s brace not only secured a 2-0 victory but also saw him surpass Ian Wright’s long-standing record of 185 goals for the club.
Wayne Rooney’s Electrifying UEFA Champions League Debut – 28 September 2004
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Some moments in football are destined to go down in history, and Wayne Rooney’s UEFA Champions League debut for Manchester United on 28 September 2004 was one such moment. At just 18 years old, Rooney delivered a performance that left fans in awe, announcing his arrival on the grandest European stage. Facing Turkish giants Fenerbahçe at Old Trafford, Rooney not only scored a hat-trick but also laid on an assist, leading United to a commanding 6–2 victory.
Arsenal’s Record-Breaking Defensive Run in Europe
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Arsenal’s backline in the 2005/06 Champions League campaign was nothing short of iconic. With clean sheets against Real Madrid, Juventus, and Villarreal, they defied Europe’s elite with defensive discipline and tactical brilliance to reach the final in Paris.