Toni Kroos has revealed that surviving Borussia Dortmund's first-half onslaught was crucial in deciding the victors of the Champions League final.
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Kroos departs Real MadridMadrid beat Dortmund 2-0Kroos to play final game in football at home EurosWHAT HAPPENED?
Kroos explained that going into half-time goalless gave Madrid the belief that they had seen off Dortmund and would win the game in the second-half. The midfielder has won all there is to win and added his sixth Champions League title to his collection. The German swung in the corner that provided the assist for Dani Carvajal's opening goal and leaves Madrid as a club legend.
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Speaking after the game, Kroos said: "The decisive factor was that we didn't concede a goal in the first half. That would have been more than possible. It took a long time before we were the better team."
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Dortmund were the stronger side for long-spells in the first-half and were unlucky to not be leading through Karim Adeyemi and Niclas Fullkrug. The former fluffed a chance to round Thibaut Courtois before Fullkrug's effort hit the inside of the post and bounced out. Had Dortmund gone into the break a goal or two clear of Madrid, it may well have been a different story.
Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR KROOS?
Kroos came out of international retirement to return for Germany in March. He is set to start in the heart of the Germany midfield at their home European Championships and will be dreaming of lifting yet another trophy before hanging up his boots.