Atlético Madrid President Calls for Another Champions League Final Against Real Madrid

By Robert Mutasi 

Speaking boldly, Atlético Madrid president Enrique Cerezo spoke on his desire for another historic showdown in the UEFA Champions League final against cross-town rivals Real Madrid.

Speaking with so much confidence, Cerezo said, "We need to play another Champions League final against Real Madri." Reflective of how gigantic a rivalry the two clubs from Madrid were, and the ambition of his club to once again seek its place on Europe's biggest stage.

This declaration comes after years of thrilling clashes between the two clubs, particularly on the European stage.

The Madrid Derby has grown into one of the most heated rivalries in world football, as these two clubs have competed with a lot of consistency in domestic and international competitions.

However, the Champions League has become a sore point for Atlético Madrid since they had been pitted against Real Madrid in two finals—2014 and 2016—and had lost on both occasions.

It was as late as 2014 when Atlético were so close to the cherished chance, until Real Madrid drew the score in stoppage time and went on to prevail 4-1 in extra time.

Two years later, they met again, this time in Milan, where the match was 1-1 after extra time, but Real Madrid won the match in penalty shootouts.

Those defeats have left Atlético Madrid eager to make up for losses on European soil, and the comments by Cerezo reflect that still-smoldering ambition.

Under the manager Diego Simeone, Atlético Madrid has transformed into the most consistent force in La Liga and Champions League.

Defensive discipline, tactical organization, and fighting spirit have made them an opponent for any side in Europe.

Overcoming their local rivals on the biggest of stages remains a challenge they have not been able to surmount.

Real Madrid, on the other hand, has a storied history in the Champions League, having won the competition a record 14 times.

Nobody has ever dominated European football quite like Real, and the club's pedigree makes them one of the more fearsome opponents in the tournament.

 A win over Real Madrid in a Champions League final is a huge accomplishment for Atletico Madrid, and yet another occasion to lay the demons of their defeats to rest. 

Both are keener and more potent at the top level, and a Champions League final rematch is one that could salivate one of the best matches in football. 

Cerezo’s rallying cry signals Atlético Madrid’s unrelenting pursuit of European glory and their determination to rewrite history.