Some clubs have to wait years to avenge a defeat in Europe. Milan, though, had the chance to banish memories of Istanbul just 24 months later in Athens. As Luca Masini explains, it was an opportunity they were never going to waste.
How great was it to have a chance to avenge Istanbul so soon?
It was a massive motivating factor – not just for the fans but for the players too. To be honest, even after Athens there’s still a desire for revenge over Istanbul because that final defeat still hurts so much.
Was that a better Milan side than the one of 2005?
I think most Milan fans would agree that the 2005 side was stronger, if only because of the athleticism of Andriy Shevchenko and Hernan Crespo, who were at their absolute peak two years before.
How was the day of the final?
I had arrived just a few hours before kick-off on a flight from Bologna so there wasn’t a huge amount of time to enjoy the build-up to the game. When I got to Athens the atmosphere in the town and outside the stadium seemed a bit flat, I think it was probably nerves from fans of both sides before such a massive match. There was also an athletics track around the ground which meant you were a lot further away from the pitch, which can be difficult.
How did you feel when Pippo Inzaghi put you 1-0 up?
There was still so much pent up frustration after Istanbul – it just erupted when the first goal went in! I was ecstatic!
Did you ever feel that a repeat of Istanbul was possible?
Of course, after what happened in Turkey, Milan fans can never relax in a Champions League final again! As the second half continued, there was also a nagging fear that Liverpool were going to somehow get back into it. It was excruciating!
How were the celebrations when the second goal went in?
I was with a friend in the main stand and we went crazy. I’m not sure I’ve ever felt so much joy in a football stadium... then they pulled a goal back through Dirk Kuyt and all the nerves came back!
What was the 'after party' like in Athens?
I stayed at the ground for as long as possible and managed to get almost pitchside when the trophy was handed over. Clarence Seedorf and Inzaghi then ran around to where we were stood with the trophy in their hands so I really felt part of it. It was a really special moment.
How much does that final win mean to AC Milan fans?
I think everyone remembers that defeat in Istanbul more than the win in Athens but just to be at a Champions League final was an incredible experience. I think, for all Milan fans, Athens was a liberation from the nightmare of two years before.
- Goal