The Champions League final is a very exciting day in the world of soccer. The excitement intensifies when the final features two clubs from the same country. When a Champions League final features two clubs from the same city, it’s truly a life-changing experience for fans and it impacts the tournament’s history.
The 2014 Champions League final featured Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid. It was the fifth final to feature two clubs from the same country, as well as the second tournament to feature two Spanish clubs. In addition, it was the first final to feature two clubs from the same city. This was Los Blancos’ first final appearance since 2002 and Atlético’s first since 1974.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ji021RYgGXQ
Los Blancos would pull off a 4-1 victory in extra time to win their 10th title. This loss was truly a massive heartbreaker for Atlético. In their case, they were literally within seconds of securing the title until Sergio Ramos would equalize in the third minute of stoppage time.
A 1-1 tie at the end of regulation would move the game into extra time. Los Blancos would punch in three goals and secure a 4-1 victory. A heartbreaking loss indeed for Atlético. The final saw a total of 12 yellow cards, which is the most in a Champions League final.
What If Atlético Madrid Had Won?
No doubt, winning the Champions League would be the club’s biggest accolade. Of course, it would give them bragging rights over who is the better club in Madrid. They already had a bright future, however winning the title would have bulked up their strength and reputation. In addition, winning the title would have given the club a great deal of pride.
Beating the likes of AC Milan, Barcelona, and Chelsea in the knockout stages truly showed Atlético’s strength and talent. No doubt, they were perfectly capable of giving their crosstown rival its fourth loss in the final. Winning their first title would have been huge for the club and it would have established the club as strong and overwhelming favorites to win the title in the coming years. In other words, it would have largely impacted the team and its already bright future.
Two years later, the two clubs would again meet in the final. Los Blancos would again defeat Atlético Madrid. To this day, Atlético remains one of four Spanish clubs to reach the final. Unfortunately, along with Valencia, they remain a one of those clubs to not have a Champions League title.
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