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Antonio Rudiger is a German by nationality, a Sierra Leonean in his heart and celebrated Real Madrid's win with the nation's flag.
Real Madrid defender Antonio Rüdiger was overcome with emotion as he celebrated his side's 15th UEFA Champions League triumph, passionately screaming "SIERRA LEONE, SIERRA LEONE!" after the final whistle.
Rüdiger, born in Germany but with strong ties to Sierra Leone, played the full 90 minutes as Real Madrid overcame a spirited Borussia Dortmund side 2-0 at Wembley Stadium on Saturday night.
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Rudiger and Sierra Leone
In a video that has swept across social media, the 31-year-old can be seen grabbing a Sierra Leonean flag from a supporter in the stands, waving it aloft as he joined his elated teammates in celebrating Real's latest European crown.
Dani Carvajal and Vinicius Junior scored the goals for Carlo Ancelotti's men, who weathered a barrage of Dortmund pressure in the first half before sealing the victory with two second-half strikes.
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For Rüdiger, it was a night of immense pride as he added another prestigious title to his collection, honouring his Sierra Leonean heritage in the most dramatic of fashions.
The former Chelsea star, who has represented Germany at international level, has long been vocal about his affinity for Sierra Leone, the birthplace of his father.
This latest outpouring of emotion has only served to cement his status as a true icon in the West African nation.
As Real Madrid savour another famous Champions League night, Rüdiger's passionate celebration ensured that Sierra Leone was at the heart of the festivities - a fitting tribute to his dual identity as a German by nationality, but a Sierra Leonean in his heart.
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