Atlético de Madrid ready for the derby

Atlético de Madrid head into their tenth appearance in the Spanish Super Cup dreaming of lifting their third trophy. Diego Pablo Simeone’s men trained at the King Abdullah Sports City ahead of the semifinal clash that will see them go head-to-head with city rivals Real Madrid. Earlier, Simeone and club captain Koke Resurrección addressed the media to preview the showdown.

Atlético and Real Madrid have faced each other four times in the Spanish Super Cup.
After FC Barcelona vs Athletic Club on Tuesday, Wednesday is derby day for the second semifinal, once again at the Alinma Stadium, the venue hosting the entire tournament.

The coach and captain appeared together at the official press conference. Koke — who could become the player with the most Madrid derbies in history (currently tied with Sergio Ramos on 43 appearances) — admitted that “a derby is always special,” even more so in a semifinal. The Vallecas-born midfielder said Atlético will “give everything” to reach Sunday’s final and that the team’s motivation is “at its highest” on the eve of facing Real Madrid.

Diego Pablo Simeone, meanwhile, will take charge of his 49th match against Los Blancos. The Argentine stressed that, despite his experience, “every match is different,” especially when it’s a derby. He also highlighted the strong form of Sørloth and called for the best versions of both the Norwegian striker and Julián Álvarez in order to compete with Real Madrid. Both Koke and Simeone closed by thanking the local fans for their warm welcome.

Following the press conference, Atlético trained without Pablo Barrios, Nico González, and Clément Lenglet. In tomorrow’s clash, the Colchoneros will look to replicate the result and performance from their most recent meeting, when Simeone’s side beat Real Madrid 5–2 on matchday seven of the league at the Metropolitano.

OFFICIAL PRESS CONFERENCE