Porto victory
May 19, 2011
It was Colombian Radamel Falcao who made the difference for FC Porto in Wednesday evening's Europa League final, having already etched his name into soccer history.
He notched up his 17th tournament goal this season just before the second half - and it proved to be decisive. Falcao had already broken Jürgen Klinsmann's record of 15 for the most goals scored in either the Europa League or its predecessor the UEFA Cup.
The game in Dublin had developed with Portuguese champions Porto pushing forward and dominating possession, although a largely defensive Braga did find opportunities to counterattack.
Indeed, there was a clear cut chance for Braga midfielder Custodio minutes after kick off when he found himself free with a half volley at the edge of the area - only to hit the side netting.
Then it was Porto's turn to come close, with Brazilian Hulk muscling successfully past Silvio and Paulo Cesar to shoot wide.
Despite Porto's dominance, Hulk, Falcao and the Portuguese winger Silvestre Varela found an uncompromising Braga defense tough to break down through much of the first half.
However, when Fred Guarin broke down the left to whip in a cross on 44 minutes, Falcao did not disappoint. The forward's header was placed cleanly past keeper for his 38th of the season in all competitions.
Further chance for Braga
There was another chance for Braga in the first minute after the break, as Brazilian substitute Mossoro found himself clear with only Porto captain and goalkeeper Helton to beat. He was unable to capitalize, as Helton saved with an outstretched leg.
It proved to be Braga's last real opportunity for an equalizer as Porto played out the remainder of the game with a cautious approach to finish 1-0.
"We dreamt of winning this title and now the dream has come true," said Falcao, who was named man of the match.
"I am pleased with my goal record but that is not important today. The important thing is the title. Our recipe for success is team work."
At the age of 33, Porto coach Andre Villas-Boas becomes the youngest football coach to win a UEFA club competition.
The two sides, only 50 kilometers apart geographically, finished the Portuguese league separated by a margin of 38 points after a Porto won the domestic league with an unbeaten record.
Author: Richard Connor (AP, dpa, Reuters)
Editor: Ian Johnson