Derby in Champions League: A Clash of Titans

The day has arrived! The Madrid derby in the Champions League is a clash of titans that promises strong emotions. Luis Nieto’s preliminary analysis puts us in the picture: Real Madrid, with a starting eleven full of stars like Courtois, Vinicius and Mbappé, will seek not to be surprised, aware of the difficulty of obtaining a definitive advantage.

The main doubt lies in the physical condition of key players such as Valverde and Rüdiger. For its part, Simeone is expected to propose a strategic match, seeking to exploit possible weaknesses on Real Madrid’s right side.

The key will be in the intensity and high pressure, fundamental to counteract the physical power of the rival. This match, beyond tactics, is a battle of hearts. Our players will take the field to give it their all, defending the badge with grit and seeking passage to the quarterfinals. We trust in the lineage and courage of our players to bring victory home! The Metropolitano eagerly awaits the return, ¡Aúpa Atleti!

read the original article

Atlético Youth Fights to the End but Falls to Salzburg

Atlético de Madrid’s youth team bid farewell to their European dream after falling to a very physical Salzburg, replaying the match from the 2022 final four. Despite playing with numerical superiority for 25 minutes, after David’s expulsion and a penalty in their favor, the Rojiblancos failed to prevail.

The absence of key players such as Rayane, Julio, and Boñar was noticeable, although Luis Bueno did have Omar Janneh and Jano Montserrate, who were limited by Austrian pressure. Salzburg imposed their game from the start, pressing high and forcing Esquivel to clear long.

The Colchoneros were initially spared a penalty. Traoré was sent off before the break, giving Atlético hope. However, Baidoo put Salzburg ahead. Minutes later, a penalty and the expulsion of David Fernández further complicated the situation.

But Atlético showed grit and heart. Romeo Hueso, one of the club’s great promises, scored a great goal that put the team back in the game. Gross and David Muñoz had chances to tie, but the final push was not enough. Salzburg, despite Atlético’s final push, stood firm and secured their passage to the next round. The Metropolitano vibrated with the team’s effort, which fought until the last minute.

read the original article

Griezmann: The Soul of Atlético

Antoine Griezmann continues to be the beacon of Atlético de Madrid, a key player in the team’s playmaking and offensive efforts. Despite other teammates also contributing important goals, the Frenchman’s specific weight in the rojiblanco squad is undeniable.

This season, Griezmann has demonstrated his worth both in the Champions League, where he is one of the team’s top scorers with six goals (against Leipzig, Sparta Prague, Slovan Bratislava, and Salzburg), and in La Liga and the Copa del Rey.

Griezmann has participated in almost every game this season, demonstrating his commitment and importance to Simeone’s scheme. He only missed the Copa matches against Cacereño and Elche. In total, he has 16 goals and seven assists, reflecting his ability to make a difference on the field.

It is true that his playing minutes have decreased in some matches, as Simeone seeks to keep him fresh for the final stretch of the season, but Griezmann accepts this role and continues to contribute his best to the team.

The Frenchman is living history of Atlético, although he still longs to conquer more titles as a rojiblanco. After winning a Spanish Super Cup, a Europa League and a European Super Cup, he dreams of lifting that long-awaited Champions League. With 427 games defending the rojiblanca jersey, Griezmann is approaching the podium of players with the most matches in the club’s history and is preparing for a special match at the Bernabéu, where he will seek to continue making history.

read the original article

Atlético: Squad management, key to success

Simeone’s Atlético de Madrid stands out for its efficient squad management, a crucial factor in its performance this season. While other teams accumulate minutes in a reduced core of players, El Cholo has managed to distribute efforts, keeping his squad fresh and competitive.

Although Ancelotti has used more players at Real Madrid, Simeone rotates his team more, giving 16 players the opportunity to play at least 40% of the total minutes. Atlético’s substitutes have been a secret weapon, contributing a third of the team’s goals (28 out of 82) and 21 assists in 40 games.

Names like Sorloth and Correa have become revulsives from the bench, demonstrating the depth and quality of the Rojiblanca squad. The Argentine coach has given 5,028 minutes to the players who have come off the bench, with an excellent performance.

This strategy of Simeone contrasts with that of other coaches, who tend to concentrate most of the minutes in a select group of starters. Cholo’s minute management, along with the stellar performance of the substitutes, is presented as one of the keys to understanding the good moment that Atlético de Madrid is going through. This approach allows the team to maintain intensity and freshness throughout the season, maximizing the performance of each player and, ultimately, contributing to collective success.

read the original article

The Original Metropolitano: A Hidden Red and White Shield in Madrid

In the heart of Madrid, a red and white secret remains hidden from plain sight: the footprint of the Stadium Metropolitano, the home of Atlético de Madrid between 1923 and 1966.

Located in the University City, between Paseo Juan XXIII and the streets Santiago Rusiñol, Conde de la Cimera, and Beatriz de Bobadilla, this space draws a polygon that unmistakably evokes the Atleti shield.

Inside, the Plaza Ciudad de Viena occupies the site of the old West end, where the booth that served as a dressing room stood. In 2023, coinciding with the centenary of the inauguration of the Metropolitano, a commemorative plaque was installed thanks to the initiative of the Los 50 association and the children of historical figures of the club.

The original stadium, named after the Compañía Metropolitana, builder of the Madrid Metro, was inaugurated on May 13, 1923 with a match against Real Sociedad, with the presence of Infante Don Juan and Queen María Cristina.

The Metropolitano stood out for its innovative design, especially “la Gradona”, a natural amphitheater that offered a panoramic view of the field. Sadly, the Civil War severely damaged the stadium, forcing the team to temporarily play in other fields.

After being acquired by the Patronato de Huérfanos del Aire, it was restored under the direction of former player and president Javier Barroso, reopening its doors in 1943. Atlético de Madrid became the owner in 1950. The last match in the Stadium Metropolitano was played on May 7, 1966, against Athletic Club. Today, this space continues to be a special place to remember the origins of the club.

read the original article

Griezmann and Julián Álvarez, Dynamite in Champions!

Our Atleti is shining in the Champions League! Julián Álvarez, with the grit and talent that characterize him, has established himself as a key player in the Rojiblanco attack. His numbers speak for themselves: six goals in eight games, an impressive record that places him among the top scorers in the competition.

His effectiveness in front of the rival goal is amazing, needing few shots to pierce the opponent’s net. But Julián is not alone in this European adventure. Griezmann is also leaving his mark with six goals, demonstrating his goalscoring instinct and his commitment to the team.

His experience and leadership are essential to guide Atleti in decisive moments. Although other big names like Mbappé also stand out in the goalscoring charts, the Rojiblanco duo are proving that they have the quality and ambition needed to go far in this Champions League. With Julián and Griezmann on fire, the Metropolitano dreams of lifting the trophy! The number 19, with five goals and one assist in his last four Champions League games. Keep supporting the team, because together we are stronger and we can achieve great things!

read the original article

Champions Derby: Atlético seeks victory

The Champions League is back, and with it, the Madrid derby! Atlético faces the challenge on their eternal rival’s field, with their sights set on taking the tie to the Metropolitano. Simeone has almost everything defined, proposing a 4-4-2 scheme that promises to be adaptable and forceful.

Oblak, as always, will be the guardian under the three posts, a safe bet on big nights. In defense, Giménez is a sure starter and Lenglet could accompany him. Javi Galán is established on the left side, while Llorente could occupy the right side, although Nahuel is also an option.

In midfield, Giuliano, De Paul and Barrios seem immovable, leaving one place in dispute. Lino, Gallagher or even Llorente could occupy that spot. The choice will depend on Simeone’s strategy to control the rhythm and intensity of the match.

The forward line is a matter of Julián Alvarez and Griezmann, a duo that excites the Colchoneros fans. The connection between the Argentine talent and the French experience can be decisive to tip the balance.

In addition, the second unit, with players like Sorloth and Correa, provides valuable options from the bench. The expected starting eleven is: Oblak; Llorente, Giménez, Lenglet, Javi Galán; Giuliano, De Paul, Barrios, Lino (or Gallagher); Julián Alvarez and Griezmann. We trust the team to give everything and bring victory to the Metropolitano!

read the original article

Go Atleti! Correa and Giménez, cautioned in Champions League

Attention, Rojiblancos! The Champions League has entered a crucial phase, and Atleti is not without its challenges. The competition’s regulations are clear: the accumulation of yellow cards can mean the suspension of key players.

This season, with an expanded league phase, every caution counts. The yellow card cycle stipulates that the first suspension occurs after the third caution, and then every two (fifth, seventh, etc.).

An important fact! All yellow cards are cleared at the end of the quarter-finals, so it is crucial to manage this aspect of the game. In the case of our Atleti, two warriors are on the tightrope: Ángel Correa and José María Giménez.

Two fundamental pillars of the team! They will have to play with their heads and grit to avoid seeing the yellow card in the upcoming matches. Their presence is vital to face the challenges ahead in the top European competition.

The technical team, led by our coach, will undoubtedly be working on strategies to minimize the risk of cautions and ensure that the team can count on all its players in each match. We trust in the wisdom and experience of the technical staff to guide Atleti to victory! Come on, Atleti! With the passion of our fans and the courage of our players, we can overcome any obstacle in this Champions League. Fight for every ball, every minute, with the Rojiblanco heart! Forza Atleti!

read the original article

Llorente: Simeone's Joker Shining at Atleti

Marcos Llorente, at 30 years old, has established himself as a key pillar in Atlético de Madrid, thanks to his versatility and commitment. Simeone has been able to maximize his abilities, turning him into a true joker on the field.

In recent weeks, Llorente has demonstrated his worth both at right-back and in midfield, adapting to the team’s needs. His vision of the game was evident in the match against Athletic, where he assisted Julián for the goal that opened the scoring.

This assist brings his tally to seven for the season, equaling Griezmann and De Paul as the team’s top assisters. In addition, he has five goals, including the goal scored in Montjuïc.

Llorente’s ability to resolve complex situations on the pitch is highly valued by Simeone, who compares him to Saúl, highlighting his ability to perform in multiple positions.

Faced with Nahuel’s inconsistency at right-back and the absences of Koke and Barrios, Llorente has returned to the double pivot, a position in which he shone before his arrival at the club. His versatility even allows him to play as a forward or center-back at specific moments.

However, his best version was seen as a right inside midfielder in the 20-21 season, forming a lethal trident with Koke and Lemar that conquered La Liga. With his commitment in every duel and his tireless back-and-forth, Llorente presents himself as a key player, multifunctional and essential for Atleti.

read the original article

De Paul: The Engine of Atlético

Rodrigo de Paul has established himself as a key piece in Simeone’s scheme, becoming a fundamental player for Atlético. His evolution in midfield has been remarkable, and the Rojiblancos team revolves around his game.

His partnership with Pablo Barrios has also become an important pillar of the team. De Paul is a fixture in the lineups and one of Cholo’s main assets, especially in high-demand matches. His performance in the Champions League is remarkable, having played all the matches as a starter.

Statistically, he leads the team in completed passes, passes between the lines and forward drives in the European competition. His vision of the game and ability to break defensive lines make him a constant danger to rivals.

This season, De Paul has participated in a total of 37 official matches, demonstrating the confidence that Simeone places in him. He has contributed with three goals and seven assists, numbers that reflect his impact on the team’s offensive game.

However, Cholo demands even more arrival in the area and daring in the shot. At 30 years old and with a current contract, this season is presented as crucial for De Paul, who is emerging as one of Atlético’s main weapons to achieve great results, including a good result at the Bernabéu.

read the original article