Simeone and Athletico finally got their hands on a continental silverware for the first time in 3 tries after beating Olympic Marseille 3-0 in Lyon. This was certainly not the caliber of continental trophy the Rojiblancos side aspired for at the beginning of the season but certainly the side will prefer this than finishing trophyless in a season they have their pose the best defensive record of conceding barely 20 goals in the league and a total of 33 goals in all competition. The Rojiblancos were written off early in the season after their early exit from the UEFA champion’s league but the side have finally reassured the media of their undeniable quality and also increased bet winning chances, both for people who stake high and for people who play Free bet.
The game began in a very feisty manner as the Olympic Marseille dominated the early stages. Athletico’s lack of possession meant that they have to sit very deep as Marseille forced errors off the Madrid team. Marseille looked to have taken the lead when Germain was presented with a clear through ball but the centre forward missed a clear cut chance to send the ball off target in an attempt that should have at least tested Oblak. It is said that errors should be minimized in finals if a team wants to win a trophy. Olympic Marseille with all their early pressure gifted Athletico a chance after strings of errors between Mandanda and his back 2. Antonio Greizmann made no mistake as fired the ball to send Athletico the lead.
Athletico Madrid is not called the new masters of the defensive style of football for nothing as the shut Olympic Marseille for large period of the game. Athletico doubled their lead in the early on in the second half with Greizmann after series of play with Koke. Mitrologu seemed to have pulled one back for the host but his header was saved by the woodwork. Gabi finally added an icing on the cake late on in the game with sweet goal after beautiful build-up involving Diego Costa and Koke.
At the end of 90 minutes, there was no doubt about the quality possessed by Athletico and their tactician Simeone as the finished in style. The difference in quality was seen throughout the game from their individual player to the entire team.
The ruthlessness of Antonio Greizmann in front of goal, the organization of the Athletico’s back 4, and the compact nature of their midfield as well as the creative acumen of Koke was all seen. The Rojiblancos did not just win but they won without conceding to prove that they are still a force to reckon with in continental competition
