Atlético vs. Real Madrid: Third Time’s A Charm?

It seems that the Copa del Rey tie against Real Madrid is pretty much over now that they defeated us 3-1 at the Bernabeu and Kun Aguero is injured. After a great start with Forlan scoring a goal, bad defending (are these guys extra nervous against Madrid?) cost us three goals and made us turn off the television out of shame after Ozil’s finale. Thankfully, that one away goal could be key in the return leg tomorrow. Now the fans have that “yeah, we can do this!” mentality and after a fresh 3-0 win over Mallorca on Monday, we learned that the team can function without certain players (Aguero, Simao) and that Reyes could be the key for success the rest of the season after he scored those killer goals against Hercules and Mallorca.

This is easily the biggest match of the season so far since progression in the cup and the elimination of Real is on the line. Last season, Atletico won many, many important matches at home in both the Copa and the Europa League and when they had a fire lit under their arse (basically, when they were on the verge of elimination) they prospered and progressed to the final in both competitions. So while this squad is watered down since last season, they will be ruthless and will have enough fight to put up a good match. Even if Atleti wins but still gets eliminated (we need to score at least two goals), the 10+ year hex will have been broken and how good will that be for when we face Real again later in the season?

Nothing is impossible and with a Vicente Calderon stadium that is guaranteed to have a booming atmosphere, we must all watch this incredible spectacle as Atleti has a chance at a huge upset and Real will be going full out to defend their two goal advantage. The only players out will be Aguero, Suarez (both injured) and Antonio Lopez (match ban) so with the Juanfran – Forlan – Elias/Merida – Reyes attack we should be good enough. The defense will once again be the main problem tomorrow (this is a guarantee) so who knows how the team will cope, and how badly C. Ronaldo will outrun whoever is playing right back. There’s still hope and a legit chance of winning this match, so you Atletico faithfuls stay confident and proud.

Aupa Atleti!

P.S. I really really need a co-blogger since this page isn’t getting much love due to my busy final semester of school. So if you think you have what it takes, hit me up and help out with some posts!

Category: copa del rey