In 2014, Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid met in the Champions League final. What turned to be a fantastic win for Los Blancos was an embarrassing and heartbreaking loss for Atlético. Two years later, the world saw a rematch between the two clubs. Real Madrid would once again defeat the crosstown rival to win its eleventh Champions League title.
After the outcome of the 2014 Champions League final, a rematch between Los Blancos and Atlético was inevitable. The second Champions League final to feature two clubs from the same city was indeed a rare occasion. In this special occurrence, history would ultimately repeat itself, resulting in another unhappy ending for Atlético.
It was a hard-fought performance by both sides. Sergio Ramos gave Los Blancos an early lead in the 15th minute under controversial circumstances. Early in the second half, Atletico was awarded a penalty. However, Antoine Griezmann missed his shot, keeping Los Blancos ahead. In the 79th minute, Atletico would equalize, keeping the game alive and well.
The score would be 1-1 at the end of regulation and extra time, meaning that the winner would be crowned via a penalty shootout. Los Blancos would go on to win 5-3 on penalty kicks, with Ronaldo sealing the deal by making the final shot.
What If Atletico Got It Done This Time?
Winning the game would have officially avenged their loss in 2014, thus restoring pride and erasing some pain. That loss in 2014 was very painful, and the club was looking to erase such a memory. Unfortunately, another loss just makes the situation worse. Atlético remains the only club to reach the final three times and lose each time. Clearly, winning the title would have spared the club several embarrassing accolades. Such negative facts truly rub salt into the wound as far as the club is concerned.
In this case, winning the title in 2016 would have earned the club a great deal of respect. Atlético has every desire to become the third Spanish club to win the Champions League.
To this day, Atletico is fighting and waiting for another chance to win the title to get over those two losses. At this point, dropping those two matches simply doubles the pain. In Atlético’s case, winning the Champions League means everything to the club.
Until Atlético Madrid wins the Champions League, the two painful memories are here to stay. In other words, it is up to them to right the wrongs.
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