Atlético Faces its Historic Challenges
Atlético de Madrid is experiencing a sweet moment in the season, positioning itself strongly in LaLiga, reaching the semifinals of the Copa del Rey, and the round of 16 of the Champions League.
This year, Cholo Simeone’s team faces two challenges that have been elusive throughout his successful career as Atlético’s coach. In the Champions League, Atlético is preparing for a crucial clash against Real Madrid.
Historical precedents do not favor Cholo, who has never managed to eliminate Los Blancos in this competition. From that agonizing final in Lisbon in 2014, through the quarterfinals of 2015 and the Milan final in 2016, Real Madrid has always been a wall for Atlético.
The last time, in 2017, the Metropolitano saw its team fall. Now, the Rojiblancos seek to reverse this negative trend and leave behind those ghosts of the past. This round of 16 clash represents a unique opportunity to change history.
The other great challenge for Cholo is to overcome Barcelona in the Copa del Rey, something he has not achieved with Atlético either. Previous clashes, both in 2015 and 2017, resulted in the elimination of the Rojiblancos.
However, this season offers a new opportunity to break that barrier and advance in the competition. This season presents itself as a revenge scenario for Atlético. The challenges are great, but the fans’ enthusiasm is even greater. Cholo and his players have the opportunity to write a new page in the club’s history, overcoming obstacles that until now seemed insurmountable.
