Sergio Ramos opens scoring in 2016 Champions League Final (Video)

MILAN, ITALY - MAY 28: Sergio Ramos of Real Madrid and Referee Mark Clattenburg are seen prior to the UEFA Champions League Final between Real Madrid and Club Atletico de Madrid at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on May 28, 2016 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Steve Bardens - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images) /

Sergio Ramos broke through on a free-kick cross to push home a goal for Real Madrid to open the scoring in the Champions League Final

Coming into the 2016 Champions League Final, Real Madrid were clearly the favorites over their in-city rivals in Atletico Madrid given the breadth of talent on their squad and their dominance in the footballing world. However, with Atletico earning a draw and a win in the La Liga season, there was still an air that anything could happen for the underdogs on Saturday in the Final. Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos tried to put a swift end to those hopes, though.

After winning a free-kick on the left side of the pitch, the ball was played high into the middle of the box. That’s where Gareth Bale was able to use his tremendous athleticism to sky and get a head on the ball. Sergio Ramos was then able to streak in, get a foot on the ball off of Bale’s head, and push it past the keeper for the 1-0 lead:

While that may not be the prettiest goal that you’re ever going to see, that’s certainly effective in getting Real Madrid on the board and allowing them to now play with a lead moving forward for the final 75 minutes of the game. For a team already favored, Sergio Ramos gave them even more of an early advantage.

For all your Champions League coverage, stay up to date with the FanSided Soccer hub.

Home/Champions League