A warrior’s heart and a defensive masterclass see Atlético Madrid triumph over Juventus

The clash between two of the favourites to reach this year’s Champions League Final, Atlético Madrid and Juventus, was among the most anticipated fixtures of the competition’s last 16 stage. When you think of the greatest defensive sides of the modern era, these two clubs come to mind more than most, and both still boast some of the best defenders in world football.

Atleti have never been European champions, having been losing finalists on three occasions. But with the final to be played in their new home this season, tangible evidence of Los Rojiblancos desperation to make this year’s campaign their greatest ever was felt in the fervent atmosphere inside the Wanda Metropolitano ahead of kick-off.

Atleti came into this match having only won four from their last nine games. They have won their last eight home games in UEFA competition though, conceding only one goal at home to boot. Their Italian visitors, Juventus, had only won three of their last nine games in Spain. The two-time European Champions have had a near untouchable season in Serie A but stuttered a bit toward the end of their Champions League group stage.

What was a very tough game to call ahead of kick-off, despite Juve’s favourable odds, was decided ultimately by simplicity, energy and fight on the part of the home side as Atlético Madrid ran out 2-0 winners. We take a look at the tactical differences between both teams and how Diego Simeone’s Atleti managed to stifle their favoured opponents to gain a vital advantage ahead of the tie’s second leg.

Lineups

There were no surprises in Atlético Madrid’s line-up. Their customary 4-4-2 formation is synonymous with their hard-working, disciplined defensive block. Jan Oblak is one of the game’s best between the sticks and is guarded by the tough Uruguayan centre-back partnership of Diego Godín and José Giménez.

Four quality midfield players are deployed across two central and two wide midfield roles, with defensive understanding paramount in Simeone’s starting XI selection. Diego Costa and Antoine Griezmann, who has 10 goals in his last 11 appearances, are two top-class strikers. The pair combined to create havoc for the Bianconeri defence throughout the night.