No Cowards at the Penalty Spot

"And their opponents today, Real Madrid, have won the UEFA Champions League more times than any other club, but they've never faced a penalty shootout in a UEFA Champions League final."

"Even their manager, Zinedine Zidane, has never faced a penalty shootout as a coach. As a player, he was involved in the 2006 World Cup final, when France lost to Italy on penalties. Of course, Zidane had already been sent off by then."

"None of Liverpool's players today were part of that miracle twelve years ago."

"But its spirit lives on!"

"That's why we've seen a Liverpool side that refuses to give up today!"

"And this match has reminded us of the Reds who pulled off the Miracle of Istanbul!"

On the pitch, both teams stood in the center circle with their arms around one another's shoulders, ready for the shootout.

Real Madrid would shoot first.

On the goal line, Mignolet made his final preparations.

It would all come down to twelve yards.

"Ladies and gentlemen, let's turn our attention back to Cardiff Millennium Stadium in Wales."

"This UEFA Champions League final, watched by so many, is about to enter the cruelty of a penalty shootout."

The aerial camera circled overhead.

The Real Madrid and Liverpool players formed separate circles, arms around one another's shoulders, offering encouragement.

White and red stood a circle apart, like two islands facing off.

In the stands, the tension reached its peak.

Fans on both sides fell silent.

Some clasped their hands and prayed to God.

Others clenched their fists and stared at the pitch, barely blinking.

In the VIP stands, both Real Madrid president Florentino Perez and Liverpool owner Khalid wore grave expressions.

Florentino Perez tapped his fingers against the armrest.

In Nicolas's box, Chen Xiaolong's eyes were red as he clasped