Colchonero Legends: When Rivalry Gave Way to Tribute
In a golden age of football, where respect and admiration transcended rivalries, Atlético de Madrid starred in unique moments that seem unthinkable today. Far from the current polarization, tributes to prominent figures allowed to see legends wearing unthinkable shirts.
A brilliant example was the match in honor of José Luis Escudero, on January 6, 1955, at the old Metropolitano. That day, Alfredo Di Stéfano, already a star of Real Madrid, joined the rojiblancas ranks along with other white players such as Oliva and Molowny.
The Austrian Wiener suffered the magic of a dream attack, with Miguel, Ben Barek, Di Stéfano, Molowny and Escudero, who delighted the colchonera fans with a 4-1 victory. A year later, Real Madrid returned the gesture by honoring Luis Molowny at the Santiago Bernabéu.
The spectacle was huge, with a stellar combined that included Kubala and two references from Atleti: Miguel and Enrique Collar. ‘Avión’ Collar, already a dazzling figure in Spanish football, also had the opportunity to wear the white shirt.
These events, reflected in chronicles of the time, show that football was a celebration of talent and mutual respect, beyond colors. A time where lordship and sportsmanship were fundamental values, allowing moments that today only live in memory.
