Member-only story
The Apocalypse Award Show
The knockout style Champions League and Europa League in the looming empty stadiums of Portugal had the feel of an apocalyptic spectacle. Having matches on a daily basis has spoilt us, and I’m not really sure what I’m going to do with my evenings now. Focusing solely on the last two and half weeks of European action, here’s my awards list for the
Best Player: Romelu Lukaku. The Belgian notched four goals and an assist in three games, but the own goal in the final marred it all. Football can be a cruel sport.
Best Player in a Supporting Role: Joshua Kimmich. Is there any position he can’t play?
Best individual performance: Copenhagen goalkeeper Karl-Johan Johnsson’s imperious performance in the Europa League quarter-final against Man United was a sight to behold. His 13 saves in the game is the joint most saves made in the Europa League since its inception in 2009.
Best match: Bayern Munich. The 8–2. The fact that this could be Messi’s last game for Barca makes it all the more poignant.
Best goal: Serge Gnabry’s first goal in the semi-final against Lyon.
Best Disallowed Goal: Lionel Messi vs Napoli. Callum Hudson-Odoi’s effort against Bayern deserves a shout too!
Best story arc: Philippe Coutinho coming off the bench to score twice and assist…
