Atletico fight off Real Madrid in extra time to claim 3rd Super Cup
Atletico Madrid ended Real Madrid’s uninterrupted European reign on Wednesday, denying Los Blancos a third consecutive UEFA Super Cup with a 4-2 comeback win in Tallinn, Estonia.
Diego Costa scored twice, including a spectacular solo effort in the first minute, to take the tie to extra time, and Saul Niguez and Koke netted in the final frame to secure Atleti’s third-ever Super Cup.
Madrid, who paired each of their previous two Champions League titles with Super Cup victories, built a 2-1 lead thanks to Karim Benzema’s header and Sergio Ramos’ penalty. However, with suspended manager Diego Simeone pacing up in the stands, Atletico did what they do best and rallied to beat their hated rivals.
The result spoiled Julen Lopetegui’s competitive debut on Madrid’s bench and put more pressure on the Spaniard heading into the new season. He was famously fired by Spain on the eve of the World Cup for accepting the Madrid job without authorization.
Madrid hadn’t lost any of their previous 13 international finals over the past 18 years, dating back to a defeat to Boca Juniors in the 2000 Intercontinental Cup.
Saul’s sensational volley in the 98th minute was the difference between two sides that scrapped all match. Atleti’s famous pressing forced a crucial giveaway, and it was left to the Spanish midfielder to convert substitute Thomas Partey’s cross.
Costa set the tone after just 49 seconds, winning a duel with Ramos before unleashing a blistering shot past Keylor Navas’ near post. Benzema wiped out Atleti’s early advantaged later in the first half when he connected with Gareth Bale’s pinpoint cross.
Ramos then put Madrid ahead with a calm penalty in the 63rd minute, only for Costa to bang in his second from close range to tie things up again.
Atleti found another gear during extra time and ensured their 100 percent record in Super Cups remained in tact. They have won the trophy in each of their three appearances in the showpiece event.
It’s also the seventh major trophy of the Simeone era, making the Argentinian the most successful manager in club history.
