Atletico Madrid
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Third-time lucky Atlético clinch Europa League title

Ahmed Hasan·
Atlético Madrid
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Atlético emerged victorious despite their recent European failings…

The 2018 Europa League came down to a clash between French side Marseille and Spanish giants Atlético Madrid in Lyon’s Groupama Stadium. Los Rojiblancos entered the competition after their group stage exit in the Champions League this season, while Marseille fought their way through from the very beginning. I’OM had an extra bit of emotion coming into this match as well, with their arch-rivals hosting the final. Simeone’s men, on the other hand, wanted to make amends for two European final disappointments in the last four years.

Despite contesting the Champions League final just two years ago, Atlético have fallen from glory. Even on the domestic stage, the team has failed to replicate their past antics. Recent losses to Espanyol and Real Sociedad meant a potential resurgence was thwarted, and even Marseille lost ground in the fight for Champions League spots with a 3-3 draw against Guingamp. Both teams were not at their best coming into this tie – but Atléti were hopeful that their resolute defence would be able to see them through in Wednesday’s final.

Profligacy from Marseille

Marseille had the upper hand over Atlético for the opening 20 minutes or so. Payet controlled the ball with confidence and led his team forward, only for his teammates to be left lamenting their missed chances. Only moments into the game, the ball fell to Valère Germain for a clear goalscoring chance, but the striker sent it wide and the French side’s performance went downhill from there.

Dominant Atletico

Atlético made Marseille pay and took a firm grip on the game. An error from Anguissa saw captain Gabi set up their star man Antoine Griezmann – who slipped a low shot into the bottom corner. All of Marseille’s early hard-work was undone by a mix up between the keeper and Anguissa.

Injury to Payet

Unfortunately for Payet, he could only last half an hour. Marseille’s captain had to limp off the field, flooded in tears, as he damaged his left leg. His injury could be a major blow to the French National team as well. It was Payet who injured Ronaldo in the Euro 2016 final in Paris as the Portuguese legend had to be stretchered off in agony. Now, the tables have turned on Payet, as he was replaced by young sensation Maxime Lopez.

Griezmann Again

Los Rojiblancos came back for the second-half even more intent to finish off the game. Just four minutes into the half, a nifty finish again from Griezmann, this time set up by Koke, gave Simeone’s side the perfect chance to secure the Europa League trophy. The French striker’s class was on display as he showed why he is such an important player for club and country.

Fitting tribute for Gabi and Torres

Atlético supporters could not have dreamt of a better ending. Simeone brought on Fernando Torres, who will be departing from his boyhood club at the end of this season. Torres replaced club superstar and arguably the best player on the pitch, Griezmann. A fitting farewell to a club legend. What made the occasion more sumptuous was having long-time captain Gabi on the scoresheet, again setup by Koke. Atletico were joyous and over-the-moon. Finally, they had their hands on European silverware after years of disappointment at the latter stages.

Resolute Defending

There was yet another clean-sheet for Diego Simeone and his men as Jan Oblak and co. did not allow Marseille to threaten after the early chance. Oblak has now kept clean-sheets in 46% of his matches with Atléti, presenting himself as the definition of ‘safe hands’.

Trophy celebrations

Atlético cavorted around the pitch as their fans continues singing their praises. Most of the Marseille players were in tears, pondering the reasons behind their failure in such a crucial final. Nonetheless, they were generous in defeat, embracing their opponents and offering congratulations. Former Barcelona star Eric Abidal carried the trophy to the presentation plinth. Gabi took the trophy and raised it, gratefully allowing Torres to share the moment! The red-and-white ticker tape showered down as the players’ voices echoed around the field.

Having lost a couple of Champions League finals in recent seasons, this is a huge release of emotion for the club, players, fans, and especially Simeone – who has led them to their sixth title in six-and-a-half years.