Some of the best post-match interviews from Champions League nights have been iconic, with players sharing raw emotion, offering insights into their performances, and giving fans a glimpse into the mindset of elite footballers. These interviews often feature memorable moments due to the high stakes and intensity of the competition. Here are a few of the best and most memorable post-match interviews from Champions League nights:

1. Zinedine Zidane (Real Madrid vs. Bayern Munich, 2002)

• Context: Real Madrid won 2-1 against Bayern Munich in the 2002 semi-finals, with Zidane scoring an unforgettable volley in the final.
• Why it’s memorable: After the match, Zidane’s humble and relaxed demeanor shone through as he reflected on his stunning goal, which helped send Madrid to the final. He didn’t dwell on the individual brilliance but credited his teammates and the team’s collective effort. Zidane’s composed manner and leadership in post-match interviews made him a fan favorite, showing his focus on team success rather than individual glory.

Zidane’s key quote: “I don’t think about goals, I think about the team. It was a great team performance.”

2. Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid vs. Juventus, 2018)

• Context: Real Madrid defeated Juventus 3-0 in the quarter-finals, with Ronaldo scoring a brace, including an incredible overhead kick.
• Why it’s memorable: Ronaldo’s post-match interview was iconic not only because of his goals but also because of his immense confidence and acknowledgment of the importance of the Champions League to his career. After scoring one of the most memorable goals in UCL history, he gave a humble yet confident interview where he showed respect to Juventus and their fans, while also expressing his love for the competition.

Ronaldo’s key quote: “For me, the Champions League is the best competition in the world. I’m in love with the competition.”

3. Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah (Liverpool vs. Roma, 2018)

• Context: Salah scored two goals and provided an assist in the 5-2 victory over Roma in the semi-final, putting Liverpool in a commanding position.
• Why it’s memorable: After his standout performance, Salah gave a passionate interview where he talked about his personal desire to help his team win the competition, while remaining humble about his achievements. His maturity in dealing with the massive expectations on him was evident in his calm but driven demeanor.

Salah’s key quote: “It’s amazing to be in this position, but we have to keep working hard. We want to win this competition for the fans.”

4. Roberto Firmino (Liverpool vs. PSG, 2018)

• Context: Liverpool won 3-2 in a thrilling group stage match against Paris Saint-Germain at Anfield. Firmino scored the late winner after being injured earlier in the match.
• Why it’s memorable: Firmino’s interview captured his infectious personality, as he spoke with genuine joy and humor, explaining how he wasn’t sure if he could play due to his eye injury. His post-match comments were full of gratitude for his teammates and the fans, and his energy lifted the spirits of everyone around him.

Firmino’s key quote: “It was a difficult match. I couldn’t see much, but the important thing is the win!”

5. Gerard Piqué (Barcelona vs. PSG, 2017)

• Context: Barcelona completed one of the most dramatic comebacks in Champions League history, overturning a 4-0 deficit from the first leg against Paris Saint-Germain with a 6-1 win at the Camp Nou.
• Why it’s memorable: Piqué gave an emotional and humble interview after the game, recognizing the magnitude of the comeback. He expressed gratitude for the fans’ support and acknowledged the disbelief and euphoria surrounding the win. His interview was genuine, and it showed how much the result meant to him and the team.

Piqué’s key quote: “I’ve never seen anything like this. It’s a historical night for Barcelona. This is football, and this is what we love.”

6. Arsène Wenger (Arsenal vs. Barcelona, 2006 Final)

• Context: After Arsenal’s heartbreaking 2-1 loss to Barcelona in the 2006 final, Wenger gave a reflective interview despite the disappointment of the result.
• Why it’s memorable: Despite the loss, Wenger was composed and showed gratitude toward his players for their resilience, praising them for their effort, especially considering they were down to 10 men after Thierry Henry’s injury and Robert Pirès’ substitution. He also spoke about the emotional toll of losing in such a manner while showing respect for Barcelona’s quality.

Wenger’s key quote: “We gave everything. You can’t fault the spirit. It’s heartbreaking, but the team did us proud.”

7. Luis Suárez (Liverpool vs. Norwich City, 2013)

• Context: Although not a Champions League match, this one features Suárez’s unforgettable interview following a stunning performance against Norwich City, scoring a remarkable hat-trick.
• Why it’s memorable: Suárez’s post-match interview highlighted his focus on the collective performance rather than his own individual glory, despite his exceptional display. His comments revealed how determined he was to bring success to Liverpool, and his passionate, straightforward approach earned him admiration.

Suárez’s key quote: “I don’t play for myself, I play for my teammates and the fans. We must keep fighting to the end.”

8. Frank Lampard (Chelsea vs. Bayern Munich, 2012 Final)

• Context: Chelsea triumphed 4-3 on penalties in the 2012 Champions League final after a dramatic 1-1 draw with Bayern Munich in regular time.
• Why it’s memorable: Lampard, as captain of Chelsea, was emotional but composed in his post-match interview. He reflected on the team’s journey to the final and the long wait for the club’s first-ever European title. His passion and leadership were evident, as he spoke about how much the victory meant to him and the entire team.

Lampard’s key quote: “We believed in each other, we believed in our team. This is a moment we’ll never forget.”

9. Kylian Mbappé (PSG vs. Atalanta, 2020 Quarter-Final)

• Context: Mbappé made a dramatic impact off the bench in PSG’s 2-1 win over Atalanta, scoring a late assist and a goal that helped secure their place in the semi-final.
• Why it’s memorable: Mbappé’s post-match interview was full of gratitude for his teammates and coach, emphasizing the collective effort rather than his individual contributions. He spoke with immense maturity, reflecting on the importance of winning and pushing forward in the competition.

Mbappé’s key quote: “I’m so happy, but it’s not just about me. We all worked together, and we have to keep going.”

10. Robert Lewandowski (Bayern Munich vs. Barcelona, 2020 Quarter-Final)

• Context: Lewandowski was instrumental in Bayern Munich’s 8-2 victory over Barcelona in the 2020 quarter-finals, scoring a goal and assisting two others.
• Why it’s memorable: After such a crushing defeat, Lewandowski’s post-match interview stood out because of his calmness and focus. While discussing his performance, he credited his teammates, acknowledging how important team spirit was in securing such a dominant victory.

Lewandowski’s key quote: “This is a special moment for us, but we have to stay focused. We can’t get too excited. We have work to do.”