It took a bit longer for Real Madrid to it. Indeed, the Meringues were just minutes from bitter disappointment as they struggled to break down a determined and resolute Atletico Madrid side.
Up stepped Sergio Ramos, one of the great leaders of this Real Madrid side, to head his 3rd goal in 2 games for Real Madrid in Europe, to make the game level and send a dagger in the hearts and guts of Diego Simeone's men.
At that stage, Real Madrid were dominating La Rojiblancas in possession and territory. The disappointing Sami Khedira and Fabio Coentrao - their futures at the Bernabeu must be in doubt now - were substituted for Isco and Marcelo who changed the game completely as Real Madrid had the impetus in attack.
Atletico Madrid were hanging on nicely and letting Real Madrid have the ball as they defended their 1-0 lead comfortably. But it was clear that as brave as they were, Gabi et al were running on empty, drained from their thrilling 1-1 draw at the Camp Nou last weekend that sealed their La Liga win - really drained from a season where they've played 200% every single game and shocked the European football fraternity.
Their goal itself was fortuitous, coming in the first half from a set-piece which was poorly handled by the usually reliable Iker Casillas, pounced by captain fantastic, Diego Godin. Indeed, you have to wonder how Atletico would score particularly after the gamble to play Diego Costa spectacularly failed.
Diego Simeone has shown to be a great manager but he would have learnt aplenty from this experience. It was amazing that he didn't get sent to the stands after running onto the pitch during extra time. Fiery as a player, Diego has to show that he can be composed as a manager. Oh well, it has been an unforgettable season and he'll be easily forgiven.
As for Real Madrid, La Decima was finally achieved and their status as the greatest club in Europe and the world secure. No. 10 came in most memorable and thrilling fashion for its fans - the experience at times may have been excruciating but Real fans will never forget those last 15 minutes of extra-time.
Angel di Maria was rightfully named man of the match - reward and recognition for an incredible season where he was one of Real's most consistent players. He worked his socks off and was a wonderful foil for Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale.
Bale could have had a hat-trick in this game but got the winner that mattered. Once it was 2-1, Real Madrid were in control and Marcelo and Cristiano Ronaldo merely added the icing on the cake. For Bale, it was the perfect ending to a fairytale story - from Southampton trainee to Tottenham reject to most expensive player to European Cup winner.
So a cracking season of European football closes. The finale aptly featured two clubs who have really made the headlines this season. Real Madrid may have the best players in the world but they showed guts and determination that was previously lacking in previous Champions League campaigns.
For Ronaldo, Bale, Ramos, Casillas, di Maria, etc. this was a triumph that just came about at the right time.
Felicitaciones Real Madrid! Commiserations Atletico! What a season!
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