Final
The final is the single match that decides the trophy. It is played at a neutral venue chosen in advance, and it is the only round of the competition decided in one game rather than over two legs.
Why it matters
It matters because it concentrates the season. A campaign of league matches and knockout ties is settled in ninety minutes, and there is no second leg to correct a mistake, which is what gives the final its weight.
Where it is used
It is used at the end of the competition. The two surviving clubs meet once, at the chosen venue, and the winner lifts the trophy and enters the roll of champions of the competition.
How to read it
Read the final as a single sample. Because it is one match, it contains more luck than a two-legged tie, and the best side on paper does not always win, which is part of the final's enduring appeal.
What it means
the single match that decides the trophy
Final is one of the working terms of the competition. This entry explains it as a mechanism that holds true from season to season, so it can be read on its own or alongside the other entries in the glossary of the tournament.
- The single match that decides the trophy.
- Played at a neutral venue.
- The only one-match round.
- A season settled in ninety minutes.
- No second leg to correct a mistake.
- A single sample with more room for luck.