A new documentary revisits one of football’s most contentious finals, the 1975 European Cup clash between Leeds United and Bayern Munich. The film focuses on the enduring bitterness among Leeds supporters, many of whom still feel their team was unjustly denied the title.
The production presents a fiercely partisan perspective, drawing on the memories of lifelong fans who describe the event with words like “cheated” and “robbed.” Their anger is directed not at the German champions, but squarely at the match officials, particularly the late referee Michel Kitabdjian.
Interviews with former players Paul Reaney and Allan Clarke add weight to the narrative. Clarke, in particular, remains visibly aggrieved over a penalty that was not awarded after a challenge from Franz Beckenbauer. The film serves as a poignant reminder of a bygone era, with many key figures from that Leeds squad, including legendary manager Don Revie, no longer alive.
Stylistically, the documentary makes sparse use of official broadcast footage, instead relying heavily on grainy, amateur film shot from the stands. This approach enhances the feeling of a raw, fan-centric account.
While the film offers little analysis of Bayern Munich’s considerable strengths—the team featured the core of West Germany’s recent World Cup-winning side—its value lies as a historical record. It captures a unique period in football culture, highlighting a deep, personal connection between a club and its supporters that has largely faded from the modern game.
