Saturday’s win was the fifth in succession for Spanish clubs in European finals against English opposition, with only Liverpool’s 2001 UEFA Cup triumph against Alaves salvaging English pride since the turn of the Millennium.
Here’s a look back at the six English-Spanish European final encounters since 2000.
UEFA Cup 2001 – Liverpool 5-4 Alaves
Delfi Geli’s extra-time own goal settled a nine-goal thriller. Liverpool had led 3-1 at half-time and Robbie Fowler restored their lead after Javi Moreno’s quickfire brace, only for Jordi Cruyff to ensure extra time – but Geli deflected Gary McAllister’s free-kick past his own keeper to hand the Reds victory.
UEFA Cup 2006 – Middlesbrough 0-4 Sevilla
Middlesbrough’s stunning run to the final ended in anti-climax as Luis Fabiano headed the Andalusians in front and Enzo Maresca (twice) and Fredi Kanoute struck in the final 12 minutes.
Champions League 2006 – Barcelona 2-1 Arsenal
Arsenal lost keeper Jens Lehmann to an early red card but still took the lead through Sol Campbell, only for Barca to hit back as substitute Henrik Larsson set up goals for Samuel Eto’o and Juliano Belletti in the final quarter-hour.
Champions League 2009 – Barcelona 2-0 Manchester United
United failed to make an impression as Eto’o gave Barca an early lead and the diminutive Lionel Messi was left unmarked to seal victory with a rare headed goal.
Europa League 2010 – Atletico Madrid 2-1 Fulham
Another unfashionable English team saw their remarkable run ended at the final hurdle as former Manchester United striker Diego Forlan netted twice for Atletico, including an extra-time winner after Simon Davies had drawn Fulham level.
Champions League 2011 – Barcelona 3-1 Manchester United
United were counting on home advantage at Wembley to help them avenge their defeat two years earlier, and Wayne Rooney superbly cancelled out Pedro’s opener, but Messi and David Villa struck from the edge of the box in the second half to win it for Barca.
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