Chapter 174: The Benefits of the Champions League

Chapter 174: The Benefits of the Champions League

Udinese almost left the Bernabeu Stadium amidst a torrent of jeers. Objectively speaking, most of the boos from Real Madrid fans were directed at the referees, as the overt "favoritism" towards Udinese by today's head referee was hard for them to swallow. It was unprecedented for Real Madrid to be at such a disadvantage.

After the match, Real Madrid's captain, Casillas, confronted head referee Gon, visibly upset and angrily arguing. The referee, stern-faced, initially tried to explain but eventually left quickly with his team amidst intensifying boos and the flurry of white handkerchiefs being waved more vigorously in the stands. Coins, lighters, and small objects were thrown down from the stands in protest.

These incidents, surely noted by the fourth official, could lead to additional penalties for Bernabeu Stadium.

Bruno, while thanking the fans who had traveled all the way to Madrid to support their team, witnessed this scene and couldn't help but remark, "What a spectacle!" A coin flew by, narrowly missing him, prompting Bruno to jump and dash away.

At the post-match press conference, Real Madrid's coach Ancelotti vehemently criticized the officiating: "From my perspective, we were denied a clear penalty. Then, the penalty that was awarded to them was non-existent."

"The players were understandably upset by these incomprehensible decisions, which significantly influenced the outcome of the match."

Ancelotti's implication was clear: Real Madrid didn't lose to a lesser team like Udinese; they were defeated by the referee's unjust decisions.

In contrast, Guiolin, all smiles, told reporters, "I am very pleased with our performance. Remember, our opponents were Real Madrid, and to come away with a win at Bernabeu is something they fully deserve."

"Mr. Guiolin, what do you think about today's refereeing?" asked a journalist from AS.

"It was a spectacular match. The officials controlled the game very well and earned widespread appreciation from both sides. They did a great job," Guiolin responded.

Reporters exchanged glances, wondering if the person speaking had any shame at all.

Ancelotti couldn't contain himself and blurted out, "I certainly didn't say that."

Guiolin just smiled, not bothering to argue with someone clearly upset and irrational.

A Marca journalist then asked, "Don't you think today's decisions were mostly in favor of Udinese?"

"I don't see it that way," Guiolin shook his head, "I believe the referee's decisions were based on fairness and justice. In fact, those who know me are aware that I have the utmost respect for referees."

"Well said," a Madrid reporter remarked sarcastically.

Guiolin simply smiled and thanked him. Bruno, attending the press conference alongside Guiolin, struggled to keep a straight face, finding his Italian coach far more amusing than the one from Real Madrid.

For Udinese, beating Real Madrid away was a joyous occasion, but advancing two rounds early in the Champions League was even more thrilling. It marked the first time in the club's history they had moved past the group stages of the Champions League, setting a new club record.

Advancing in the Champions League was not only a significant boost in reputation but also brought substantial economic benefits. According to the prize money distribution plan published by UEFA two months before the start of this season's Champions League, the total prize pool reached 900 million euros, with up to 37.4 million euros going to the winning team.

The UEFA Champions League is a lucrative endeavor; all 32 participating teams are guaranteed a base amount of 8.6 million euros. Additionally, each victory in the group stages is rewarded with 1 million euros, and a draw with 500,000 euros.

If a team advances from the group stages to the last 16, they earn an additional 3.5 million euros, reaching the quarterfinals nets 3.9 million euros, and making the semifinals increases the prize to 4.9 million euros. The champions receive an additional 10.5 million euros from UEFA, with the runners-up earning 6.5 million euros.

In total, a team that goes undefeated in the group stage and ultimately wins the Champions League can earn up to 37.4 million euros in prize money.

As for Udinese, they have already secured a guaranteed 8.6 million euros, 3.5 million euros for match wins, and another 3.5 million euros for advancing to the last sixteen, ensuring a minimum of 15.6 million euros, excluding broadcast revenue.

Being from Serie A, Udinese is not an obscure team. Now, as one of the first teams to advance in this season's Champions League, their visibility has increased, likely ensuring a significant portion of the 409.6 million euros in floating bonuses.

Thus, Udinese's income from the Champions League could exceed 25 million euros—a substantial amount for the club. In comparison, their total earnings from last season's UEFA Europa League victory were about 13 million euros.

Beyond direct prize money, Udinese also benefits from increased brand visibility and commercial income due to their Champions League performance. After their victory over Real Madrid and their early qualification for the knockout stages, Udinese's owner, Gianpaolo Pozzo, was so delighted that he announced on the flight back to Italy a reward of 1 million euros for the match—a first for Udinese players under the typically frugal Pozzo family.

(End of Chapter)