31. Bayern Munich: 2000/01
Bayern practically threw the trophy away with both hands against United in 1999, but were back again two years later. Hitzfeld’s experienced group had learned its lesson and adopted a more cautious approach to help avoid another legendary letdown.
There were still match-winners aplenty, thanks to Mehmet Scholl and Stefan Effenberg in midfield, while Giovane Elber led the line brilliantly along with winger Paulo Sergio.
Defensively, Bayern counted on the rallying roars of goalkeeper Oliver Khan and the athleticism of the versatile Samuel Kuffour. Revenge over United was dished out during a 3-1 win in the quarter-finals. Sergio netted a late winner at Old Trafford to precede Elber and Scholl settling the tie back in Munich.
Next up, holders Real Madrid were seen off thanks to two more goals from Elber. The final against Valencia was nowhere near as impressive. Gaizka Mendieta and Effenberg traded successful penalties, before a shoot-out was needed to determine the winner.
Bayern won it thanks to Kahn’s imposing figure. It was a fine win and the last peak for an ageing group, even though the spectre of blowing it in ’99 remained.