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Sixteen teams participated in this edition of what we now know as the Champions League. The final, held at the iconic Parc des Princes in Paris, featured a thrilling showdown between Real Madrid (Spain) and Reims (France).

Rapid Wien (Austria) Anderlecht (Belgium) AGF (Denmark) Reims (France)
Voros Lobogo (Hungary) A.C. Milan (Italy) PSV Eindhoven (Netherlands) Gwardia Warsaw (Poland)
Sporting CP (Portugal) Saarbrucken (Saarland) Hibernian (Scotland) Real Madrid (Spain)
Djurgarden (Sweeden) Servette (Switzerland) Rot-Weiss Essen (Germany) FK Partizan (Serbia)

The 16 teams competed in intense two-leg matches during the Round of 16, progressing through the Quarter-Finals and Semi-Finals, all culminating in the final showdown at Parc des Princes. Each stage showcased incredible skill, strategy, and determination, with clubs leaving everything on the field in pursuit of glory. The tournament also highlighted the passionate support of fans, whose unwavering energy and devotion created an electrifying atmosphere in every match. From colorful choreographies in the stands to deafening chants that echoed throughout the stadiums, the connection between teams and their supporters elevated the competition, making it a truly unforgettable spectacle for all involved.

top goal scorer

Milos Milutinovic, representing FK Partizan (Belgium), emerged as the tournament's top scorer with an impressive 8 goals. Notably, he netted 4 of those during the second leg of the Round of 16 against Sporting CP. Milutinovic's exceptional performance not only highlighted his individual brilliance but also underscored FK Partizan's attacking prowess during the tournament. His ability to deliver under pressure, especially in crucial knockout matches, earned him recognition as one of the most dynamic forwards of the competition, leaving a lasting mark on the tournament's history.

the very first winners

The very first club to proudly claim this highly prestigious title was Spain's Real Madrid, emerging victorious over France's Reims in an unforgettable and thrilling 4-3 victory that captivated fans. This historic match not only marked the birth of a competition that would later become a global phenomenon but also set the stage for a legacy of excellence that Real Madrid would continue to uphold for decades. Another key highlight of this iconic tournament lies in its ability to unite football fans from every corner of the world. Beyond the fierce rivalries and breathtaking goals, the competition serves as a symbol of sportsmanship and cultural exchange, bringing together players and supporters from diverse backgrounds to celebrate their shared passion for the beautiful game. Each match is more than just a contest; it’s a narrative of dreams, determination, and mutual respect that transcends borders.

TOURNAMENT DETAILS/STATISTICS

DATES: August 1, 1956 - May 30, 1957

TEAMS: 22 Teams (from 21 Associations)

MATCHES PLAYED: 44 games

GOALS SCORED: 170 goals (3.86 per match)

ATTENDENCE: 1,840,978 (41,840 per match)

wOULD YOU LIKE TO HEAR ABOUT THE 1955 european cup

Join me in a discussion on how the 1955 European Cup turned out.  How did it all get started? Who were the favorites?