Chapter 85
The morning after defeating Celta Vigo, the team completed recovery training in Majadahonda before boarding the bus to head into Madrid. The familiar M30 highway encircled the city, and as they approached the Calderón Stadium area, construction crews directed traffic. Once the Atlético bus was identified, it was allowed through.
Madrid's municipal government had issued advance notice: all vehicles traveling on the M30 near the Calderón Stadium would need to detour. While this inconvenienced residents, ongoing renovations along the M30 in recent years had made such disruptions routine.
Arriving at the familiar Calderón Stadium, the bus turned onto a side road and continued until it stopped in front of the club's new headquarters.
The new headquarters is a five-story building designed in Herzog & de Meuron's signature style of stacked cubic forms, mirroring the MSM Group headquarters across the way. The building features large floor-to-ceiling windows that maximize natural light in every office.
Its most striking feature is the red-and-white striped accents on the facade and Atlético's crest, making it unmistakably the club's headquarters. The first floor houses the club's museum, fan shop, and medical center, though these are not yet open to the public. Across the street, MSM's flagship store on the ground floor is already operational.
The architectural style of the two headquarters bridges the classic stability of the new stadium and the futuristic grandeur of the Twin Towers project, creating a smooth visual transition. Fans visiting the site have expressed great enthusiasm.
The external construction of the new headquarters has been completed, with scaffolding removed and internal decoration underway. The second-floor offices are already operational, and the club's administration has moved from the Calderón to the new building.
When the team arrived, staff greeted them and led a tour, while the new media team documented every step. The media group films almost everything now, regularly uploading content online to engage fans.
There wasn't much to see in the new headquarters yet; the fan shop and museum on the first floor are slated to open in August alongside the new stadium. On the second floor, the team encountered Enrique Cerezo and Miguel Gil. The ongoing renovations meant all departments were temporarily working together in one space, creating a slightly chaotic atmosphere.
The team then proceeded to tour the new stadium.
Compared to the Calderón, Atlético's new stadium can only be described as monumental. Its exterior exudes a sense of historical gravitas, evoking a profound sense of significance.
Currently, the locker rooms are still under construction, the pitch has yet to be laid, and systems for lighting and multimedia are being tested. As players toured the stadium, workers were busy installing seats.
Although the timeline for the stadium's completion is tight, everyone is excited.
With a capacity of 76,000—22,000 more than the Calderón—the new stadium feels significantly larger. Whether seated in the stands or standing on the pitch, the space feels expansive and bright.
If one were to critique the stadium from the perspective of absolute perfection, its only flaw is that it isn't fully enclosed. However, for football stadiums, this isn't an issue. Grass needs sunlight, and fully enclosed roofs are uncommon in stadium design, with most stadiums retaining an open bowl shape.
The decision not to fully enclose the new stadium was a compromise with the structural design. Still, everyone is delighted with the outcome.
Sergio Ramos, in particular, was ecstatic, repeatedly exclaiming, "This is absolutely the best stadium in the world!"
The players echoed his sentiments, thrilled about playing in such an extraordinary venue for the club they love.
All 255 VIP suites have already been sold, and commercial spaces within the stadium are nearing completion, with final touches underway.
The stadium will be open to the public on match days and for tours on other days, including access to the upper-level walkways, offering panoramic views of Madrid. Although the surrounding area is still undergoing urban renewal, the location will be stunning once the municipal project is complete. The Twin Towers along the Manzanares River are expected to become iconic landmarks in Madrid.
What excites the players the most is the home team's locker room, which is exceptionally spacious, modern, and equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.
Yang Hao didn't need to ask for feedback; the players' spontaneous expressions of awe and amazement said it all. According to the new media team, the reactions made for excellent promotional material.
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After touring the new headquarters and stadium, the team headed to the Calderón's gates around midday.
Six excavators were stationed there, ready to begin work. Today marked the first day of the Calderón's demolition, and the club organized a ceremonial event to mark the occasion.
Not only were all the players present, but many fans also gathered to witness the moment. Journalists and media crews tracked the event, eager to report on Atlético's transition to the new stadium.
Club president Enrique Cerezo gave a short speech, reflecting on the Calderón's history and contributions to Atlético, while looking forward to the new stadium and the club's bright future.
Cerezo emphasized that demolishing the Calderón was part of Madrid's urban renewal plan, earning widespread praise from media and civic groups. He highlighted Atlético's contribution to the city and its commitment to progress.
"Bidding farewell to the Calderón does not mean saying goodbye to the past. On the contrary, the Calderón will live on in our memories, with a dedicated space in the museum at our new headquarters."
"We firmly believe that with the opening of our new headquarters and stadium, Atlético is entering a new era. We are confident that both in management and on the pitch, we will achieve even greater success!"
Thunderous applause erupted as the excavators honked their horns and began the symbolic first demolition, striking the opening blow.
This ceremony was purely symbolic. The actual demolition would proceed in phases. The north, south, and east stands would be removed first, while the west stand, which spans the M30 highway, would remain temporarily. Due to the high traffic volume, a temporary bypass would be constructed before the west stand's removal.
In Yang Hao's previous life, the Calderón was dismantled piece by piece using excavators. This time, the city allowed for controlled demolition using explosives, thanks to relaxed noise and environmental regulations. However, the complete demolition would still take about three months.
Afterward, Atlético would collaborate on the M30's underground reconstruction as part of the urban renewal project, which includes the Twin Towers and the new stadium. Once completed, the area will feature pedestrian-friendly streets with no visible cars on the surface, achieving full separation of vehicles and pedestrians.
Atlético is also committed to preserving the Calderón's legacy. The new Emirates Stadium will include a dedicated Vicente Calderón Stand for die-hard fans, and the headquarters museum will permanently display a model and history of the Calderón.
During the demolition, Atlético plans to organize various commemorative events, including a month-long photography exhibit featuring images and news from the Calderón's 40-year history. This exhibit will be held at the Princess of Don Luis Bourbon Palace and will be open to the public for free.
Other events are planned to honor the stadium's contributions to the club's history, strengthening Atlético's bond with the community and its local fans.
As Atlético's global influence continues to grow, Yang Hao consistently reminds the club's management of the importance of its roots in Madrid and its 150,000 local members.
While membership fees may not seem significant, local fans' contributions through season tickets are substantial. More importantly, without its local fanbase, Atlético would lose its identity and sense of belonging.
Yang Hao is determined to balance global expansion with a strong local foundation, ensuring both aspects thrive.
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After the ceremony, the players returned by bus to Majadahonda for lunch, while Yang Hao stayed behind at the new headquarters for a meal with Enrique Cerezo, Miguel Gil, and the department heads. This wasn't about being stingy and excluding the players; the team needed to begin focusing on preparations for the Champions League final.
The final would be held at the Olympic Stadium in Athens, located in the northeastern part of the city. Atlético had booked an isolated hotel in the suburbs for all players, employees, family members, sponsors, and VIP guests to stay.
Atlético's well-established logistics ensured the players would be fully focused on their preparations. With the league season drawing to a close, rumors and news were swirling.
For instance, the Abu Dhabi consortium's purchase of Valencia had been approved by the city council. The acquisition was expected to be finalized by the end of May, after which the consortium would officially take control of the club.
"I heard Mubarak and Subirats secretly met with Ancelotti in Milan—twice," Miguel Gil said with a conspiratorial air.
Yang Hao chuckled, thinking to himself: I even helped persuade Ancelotti to take the Valencia job.
"Oh, and I also heard that Real Madrid recently signed a midfielder from Monaco in Ligue 1. Someone named… Yaya Touré, for 10 million euros," Miguel added.
Yang Hao froze for a moment. "Yaya Touré?"
"Yes, I'm not entirely sure, but it should be him."
It had to be Monaco's Yaya Touré. But why Real Madrid? Wasn't he supposed to join Barcelona?
Yang Hao found it puzzling. Since when was Real Madrid interested in Yaya Touré?
Looking at the current situation, Real Madrid's squad for the next season was shaping up to be incredibly strong. Their only real weakness was at right-back, though they were heavily pursuing Philipp Lahm. If they managed to sign him, the Galácticos would truly be unstoppable.
With Ballack and Vieira aging, Real Madrid's midfield now included Yaya Touré, Pirlo, Essien, and Beckham, along with Guti, De la Red, and Parejo.
It was arguably the strongest Real Madrid midfield in history.
Their attack was already formidable, and now with Yaya Touré bolstering the midfield, the transfer market was becoming increasingly chaotic.
"Real Madrid is swimming in money right now, climbing higher every year. This year, their revenue surpassed 400 million euros," Yang Hao sighed.
In terms of commercial operations, it was impossible not to respect Real Madrid.
Atlético was doing exceptionally well, but still fell slightly short of Real Madrid. Of course, that might not hold true in the coming years.
Once Atlético's new stadium opened, matchday revenue would skyrocket, and the naming rights would provide another significant boost. At that point, Atlético's overall revenue would also soar.
Moreover, Atlético was continually tapping into the marketability of stars like Kaká, Torres, and Messi. The future competition between the two clubs was still up in the air.
"I also heard," Miguel continued, "that Barcelona is leaning toward Mourinho as their new coach. They've reportedly promised him a massive transfer budget. It seems they're fully committed to this move."
If Barcelona made a splash in the transfer market, their overall strength would undoubtedly skyrocket. And Mourinho, for all his controversies, was undeniably a top-tier manager.
Yang Hao could only smile wryly. The trajectory of events had completely upended his memories. Or rather, his previous-life knowledge was becoming less and less relevant. The times had changed drastically, throwing everything into disarray.
Mourinho managing Barcelona? The idea seemed surreal. Would Barcelona shift to a counterattacking style?
A club that had played possession football for its entire history switching to Mourinho's defensive-counterattacking approach? Could Barcelona even be called Barcelona anymore?
In Yang Hao's previous life, even a slight increase in long balls under coaches like Tata Martino had caused upheaval in the locker room and among fans and media, who accused him of betraying Barcelona's traditions.
Adopting Mourinho's counterattacking philosophy? That would be unthinkable. Yang Hao imagined Mourinho sliding on his knees in celebration at the Camp Nou after every home match.
"The competition is fierce now. Look at this season: Barcelona hasn't even secured third place yet. If they lose their final match, they might not even finish in the top four," Cerezo said with a laugh.
"Laporta told me that the situation is forcing Barcelona's hand. If they don't change, the club will collapse."
Everyone nodded in agreement.
Whether one felt regret or resignation, the reality was clear. Rijkaard staying on for another season seemed pointless. It would only waste another year and age the squad further. If a coach can't deliver, they must be replaced.
Yang Hao supported Barcelona changing coaches, though he would have chosen Guardiola. But back then, almost no one besides Yang Hao (and perhaps Juanma Lillo) believed in Guardiola's coaching abilities. Unsurprisingly, Barcelona hadn't even considered him.
It was almost comical in hindsight.
Looking ahead, Valencia, Deportivo, Sevilla, and Villarreal were all set to become even stronger next season. Valencia, in particular, with Ancelotti at the helm and significant investment, could become a serious contender. While a title might be a stretch, it wasn't impossible.
As for Barcelona? If they continued to falter, even securing a top-four finish would be difficult.
Unlike the relatively weaker competition during the club's dark period in the early 2000s, La Liga was now fiercely competitive. A failure to qualify for the Champions League wouldn't just be a setback; it could be a catastrophic turning point.
Faced with this situation, Barcelona's management likely had no choice but to act.
Even if they viewed Mourinho as a slow poison, they might still take the risk to alleviate their immediate pain. The future consequences would be a problem for another day.
If they failed to act, Laporta and his team would likely be ousted.
Yang Hao wasn't surprised by Barcelona's decision. He was simply curious about what direction the club would take under Mourinho.
With Mourinho joining, Ancelotti in Valencia, and La Liga becoming more competitive, Yang Hao found himself uncertain about the future.
But he had confidence in the Atlético project he had carefully built over the years. No matter how turbulent the waters, he believed he could steer Atlético through. Everything he had done with the club wasn't for nothing.
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In La Liga's final round, all matches were played simultaneously. Atlético traveled to face Osasuna, fielding a rotated squad to rest key players for the Champions League final in Athens four days later.
Luis Suárez scored in the first half to give Atlético a 1-0 lead.
Two minutes into the second half, Milosević equalized for Osasuna. But in the 52nd minute, Torres struck again to restore Atlético's lead.
The match ended 2-1 in Atlético's favor, earning them three points and closing out the season.
At the Bernabéu, Real Madrid defeated Mallorca 3-1, while Valencia drew 3-3 at home against Real Sociedad.
It was a shocking result, as Sociedad, already relegated, managed to drag Valencia down with them. As a result, Valencia finished behind Sevilla in the standings.
This meant La Liga's top four for the season were Atlético, Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Sevilla.
Valencia, despite their recent acquisition by the Abu Dhabi consortium, missed out on Champions League qualification.
On a related note, Sevilla had narrowly defeated Deportivo 2-1 in the UEFA Cup final three days earlier, successfully defending their title.
Juande Ramos had achieved considerable success during his tenure at Sevilla. Meanwhile, the three relegated teams from this La Liga season were Celta Vigo, Real Sociedad, and Tarragona.
Yang Hao was particularly disappointed that Athletic Bilbao managed to secure a 2-0 victory against Levante in the final round, avoiding relegation. He had hoped the Basque Lions would drop, but it didn't happen.
The relegation of Celta Vigo and Real Sociedad, however, came as a surprise to him, especially given how close Athletic Bilbao came to the drop. This underscored just how brutal the competition in La Liga had been.
Despite Bilbao's self-imposed policy of only fielding Basque players, their strong youth academy and influence in northern Spain have kept them competitive. Historically, they've even attracted high-profile managers like Jupp Heynckes, further demonstrating their strength.
Although Bilbao had faced financial difficulties a few years ago, the centralized broadcasting rights deal turned their deficits into profits. Overall, clubs in northern Spain—Bilbao, Real Sociedad, and Osasuna—were managing their finances relatively well.
After the final round of La Liga, Valencia held a press conference announcing that the Abu Dhabi consortium had officially taken over the club. Mubarak was named chairman, and Javier Subirats was appointed as the club's technical director.
Valencia also announced plans to accelerate construction of their new stadium, with a goal of moving in within three years. This made them the second La Liga club in recent years to embark on building a new stadium.
Additionally, Valencia expressed gratitude to Quique Flores for his contributions this past season but announced the termination of his coaching contract, citing the club's developmental needs.
Reports suggested that while Flores's contract was terminated, Valencia provided a generous severance package, which Flores was satisfied with as he began looking for his next opportunity.
Valencia officially announced Carlo Ancelotti as their new head coach.
"We are proud to announce that Carlo will lead Valencia in the coming years. He will carry the responsibility of guiding the team in the pursuit of La Liga and European titles!" said Subirats.
Subirats also revealed that Valencia would be active in the summer transfer market, investing in top-tier reinforcements for the squad.
The first player Valencia secured was a surprising one: Alberto Aquilani from AS Roma, for a transfer fee of €15 million.
When Yang Hao heard the news in Madrid, his first reaction was shock—not because he didn't know Aquilani, which was impossible given that he was an Italian international midfielder, but because it was unexpected.
Aquilani had been performing well recently, establishing himself as a key player in Roma's midfield alongside De Rossi, earning consistent praise from observers. His inclusion in the Italian national team was no surprise.
What baffled Yang Hao was that this legendary "€24.5 million man" would end up at Valencia rather than Liverpool. It seemed absurd.
However, on second thought, Yang Hao reasoned that Aquilani was likely handpicked by Ancelotti. As a fellow Italian, Ancelotti was undoubtedly familiar with Aquilani's capabilities.
Given the limited number of top Italian talents, Inter Milan players might be harder to poach, but Roma? Not so much. De Rossi might have been untouchable, but Aquilani was more feasible.
In Yang Hao's previous life, Aquilani's career was plagued by injuries, though his talent was undeniable. Otherwise, he wouldn't have commanded the infamous €24.5 million transfer fee to Liverpool.
Yang Hao found himself intrigued by the prospect of Aquilani thriving under Ancelotti's guidance, much like Pirlo had. Ancelotti excelled at developing players of Aquilani's profile, and both shared an Italian connection. Aquilani's move to La Liga likely reflected his ambition to further his career.
Roma and Serie A, with their declining status, offered limited growth prospects. Moving to La Liga was a logical choice, and as a technical midfielder, Aquilani would likely adapt well.
Valencia's midfield, which needed a strong playmaker to complement Albelda, seemed an ideal fit for Aquilani. The partnership between Aquilani and Albelda had potential.
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As the season ended, the transfer market roared to life, especially within La Liga.
Following Real Sociedad's relegation, several key players announced their departures. Among them, Mikel Arteta, one of Spain's best-performing midfielders in recent years, joined Sevilla for €15 million.
Former Real Madrid winger Sávio moved to Levante for €1 million. Other players, such as Garrido and Kovacevic, either transferred outright or left on loan.
These loan arrangements reflected Real Sociedad's determination to return to La Liga. The club was confident they could secure promotion next year.
Celta Vigo faced similar challenges. Among their departures was Ángel López, a highly regarded right-back with strong national team prospects.
Previously, Yang Hao had debated between López and Álvaro Arbeloa when selecting a Spanish right-back. The two players were evenly matched, but Yang Hao ultimately chose Arbeloa. In his previous life, Luis Aragonés had opted for López.
López joined Villarreal for €6 million.
For both Real Sociedad and Celta Vigo, relegation dealt a heavy blow, triggering significant player departures. While they earned around €20-30 million from transfers, rebuilding the squad and returning to La Liga would be an uphill battle.
Adding to their woes was the upcoming auction for La Liga's international broadcasting rights in January 2008.
Unlike domestic rights—which are shared among La Liga clubs, the Spanish Football Federation, youth development, and Segunda División—international rights are divided exclusively among the 20 La Liga clubs. This created a widening revenue gap between La Liga and Segunda División teams.
In this context, the relegation of storied clubs like Real Sociedad and Celta Vigo felt particularly poignant. Both vowed to return to La Liga next year to claim their share of the lucrative broadcast deal.
On the first day after the season's conclusion, a notable transfer caught Yang Hao's attention.
Real Betis signed Roque Santa Cruz from Bayern Munich for €5 million, Mark González from Liverpool for €6 million, and Portuguese goalkeeper Ricardo from Sporting CP for €4 million.
Although the transfer window hadn't officially opened, Betis had already spent €15 million, signaling their ambition to rebuild.
Reports suggested that Betis was preparing a lucrative offer to appoint Héctor Cúper as their head coach.
With Valencia opting for Ancelotti, Betis pursuing Cúper wasn't out of the question, though Cúper's notoriously conservative tactics might raise concerns.
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Yang Hao didn't pay too much attention to the transfer market. Players like Santa Cruz and Arteta had little to do with Atlético.
His focus remained on the upcoming Champions League final against Wenger's Real Madrid.
According to reports from Atlético's scouts, Yang Hao was almost certain that Real Madrid would deploy a three-defensive-midfielder system.
Pirlo was unavailable for the Champions League final. If nothing changed, the three midfielders would likely be Essien, Beckham, and either Vieira or Ballack.
"Vieira is more likely," speculated Juanma Lillo, and the group agreed.
Vieira offered better positioning and defensive ability, whereas Ballack, while versatile, was less suited to a deep-lying role.
With the rest of Real Madrid's lineup settled, Atlético's task was clear. The battle ahead would be intense.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Zlatan Ibrahimović, and Joaquín formed Real Madrid's attacking trident. With no injuries to this trio, they were expected to start in the Champions League final. Robinho and Raúl would provide options from the bench, along with midfielders like Guti and De la Red.
The biggest concern for Real Madrid lay in their defense. Samuel and Cannavaro, as the central defenders, would face challenges dealing with Drogba's aerial threat due to their height disadvantage. Cicinho had returned from injury, but his form was questionable.
Yang Hao couldn't help but notice the increasingly exaggerated praise he was receiving from the media, which was bordering on creating a myth around him. It made him feel somewhat uncomfortable.
Atlético Madrid's dominance in La Liga this season was partly due to the injury struggles of Barcelona and Real Madrid, with the league as a whole plagued by fitness issues. Despite this, Atlético only suffered one loss throughout the campaign.
After every post-match analysis, pundits credited Yang Hao for seemingly predicting this outcome years in advance. This perception of foresight was feeding into the myth.
Years ago, when Atlético prioritized medical advancements, Yang Hao had made several statements about the importance of health management. Those predictions now appeared prophetic. Atlético's robust medical system continued to benefit the team, setting a standard other clubs would struggle to match for years.
Some media outlets went as far as to call Atlético's medical setup a secret weapon in their success, attributing it all to Yang Hao's foresight. Some even described him as clairvoyant.
Yang Hao joked privately that if this narrative continued, he might end up in a laboratory being dissected.
Back to Real Madrid
"Our best opportunity lies in exploiting Salgado's side," Juanma Lillo suggested during a tactical meeting.
Yang Hao immediately waved it off.
"We'll plan as usual, but we need a different approach. Wenger isn't foolish. He won't leave us the same opportunities as before."
If Yang Hao were in Wenger's position, he would certainly address such vulnerabilities after suffering once. While weaknesses exist, there are ways to mitigate them.
For instance, if Drogba's height posed a challenge for Samuel and Cannavaro, they could focus on controlling the second ball instead of contesting the first. Similarly, if defending the right flank was problematic, Wenger could shift resources, perhaps deploying someone like Miguel Torres or Minambres.
Nothing in football is fixed, and Yang Hao emphasized that success depended on Wenger's ability to adapt.
"If I were Wenger, I'd make adjustments. Sticking to the same plan leaves little chance of success," Yang Hao reasoned.
The Champions League final is no place for complacency. Anything is possible if it means winning. This unpredictability is why managers like Guardiola often make surprising tactical adjustments, aiming to confuse both their opponents and their analysts.
"What should we do then?" Lillo asked.
Yang Hao smiled and stood up.
"We stick to our plan. We're the stronger team and have the resources to dictate the game. It's up to them to figure out how to stop us, not the other way around.
"Instead of trying to guess what they'll do or overthinking our own adjustments, we'll simply play our game. Let them make the first move, and we'll respond accordingly."
This is the advantage of being the stronger side.
"Of course," Yang Hao added with a grin, "Guardiola's overthinking is a problem that needs fixing."
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The Day Before the Final
The morning before the Champions League final, Atlético completed a training session in Majadahonda before heading to Madrid-Barajas Airport. The team boarded an Emirates Airlines charter flight to Athens, Greece.
After nearly four hours of flight time, the team landed in Athens in the early afternoon and checked into their reserved hotel.
By this point, the atmosphere of the Champions League final had taken over Athens. For the second consecutive year, the final featured an all-La Liga matchup, fueling perceptions that the Champions League was becoming dominated by Spanish clubs.
UEFA's new president, Michel Platini, dismissed such concerns, attributing La Liga's dominance to the strength of its football infrastructure. He emphasized that UEFA would not intervene and would continue to allow free competition among clubs.
Despite being a Madrid derby, the final between Atlético and Real Madrid was a clash between two of the world's most iconic clubs, making it a highly anticipated global spectacle.
Tickets for the Champions League final are always in high demand, but this year was extraordinary.
According to media reports, tickets for this season's final were selling for over €10,000 on the black market and were still nearly impossible to obtain. Fans without tickets flooded Athens, especially around the Olympic Stadium, holding signs pleading for tickets.
Platini expressed regret over the limited stadium capacity. The Olympic Stadium in Athens could only hold 63,000 people, with 20,000 tickets allocated to each club and a portion reserved by UEFA. Less than 10,000 tickets were available for general sale, making it exceedingly difficult for fans to secure entry.
This final was especially coveted because both teams boasted star-studded lineups. Atlético and Real Madrid, the two most illustrious clubs in the world, brought together some of the biggest names in football. This "clash of titans" was billed as the pinnacle of the sport, promising a thrilling encounter.
Additionally, UEFA had announced last year that prize money for the 2006/07 Champions League would increase by 30%, bringing the total pool to €550 million.
Reaching the final alone guaranteed both teams over €35 million, with the winner earning €40 million.
This level of financial reward was unheard of in the past and highlighted the growing global influence of the Champions League, driven by skyrocketing broadcasting revenues.
A Deloitte market study projected that the commercial impact of winning the Champions League could bring an additional €100 million in revenue over the next two years, an opportunity neither club could afford to ignore.
Thus, the final wasn't just about the trophy—it was also a commercial battleground.
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While the media buzzed with speculation and excitement, Yang Hao and his players remained focused at their suburban hotel. Aside from one familiarization session at the Olympic Stadium and attending a routine pre-match press conference, they stayed at the hotel to prepare mentally and physically.
Yang Hao made time to talk individually with players, gauging their mental states and offering guidance. He also had a specific conversation with Robben, warning him of potential challenges Wenger might set up on the right flank.
"I can't say for sure what it'll be," Yang Hao admitted, "but you need to be ready for surprises."
Robben nodded confidently.
"I'm ready!"
In the visitors' locker room at Athens' Olympic Stadium, Juanma Lillo's face showed surprise as he reviewed Real Madrid's starting lineup. He handed the sheet to Yang Hao, who stood in front of the tactical board, contemplating Real Madrid's formation.
"Just as you expected, Wenger made a surprise move," Lillo remarked.
Yang Hao glanced at the lineup briefly before passing it to Parales. Parales carefully analyzed the list and walked over to the tactical board, erasing the name of Salgado at right-back and replacing it with Essien. He also erased Essien's name from the left side of the midfield trio, writing in Ballack instead.
Real Madrid's Starting XI:
Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo, Zlatan Ibrahimović, Joaquín Midfielders: Ballack, Vieira, Beckham Defense: Ashley Cole, Cannavaro, Samuel, Essien Goalkeeper: Casillas
"This season, Essien hasn't played at right-back—not once in a match we've seen," Parales reported.
The adjustments prompted Atlético's analysts to immediately dig into Essien's history at the position.
"Essien hasn't played as a defender or on the flanks for Real Madrid, but he did in Ligue 1," the analyst continued.
2003/04 Season (Lyon): Essien played four matches on the right side—three as a right midfielder in the Champions League (vs. Porto and Bayern, with results of 2-1 away, 1-0 home, and 2-2 home) and one as a right-back in Ligue 1 against PSG (0-1 away loss). 2004/05 Season (Lyon): He played five matches as a center-back (all wins) and three as a right-back (two draws, one loss).
Atlético's advanced data analysis capabilities were among the strongest in Europe, providing the coaching staff with valuable insights in record time. These findings helped inform strategies and decision-making.
"By the 2004/05 season, Essien was stronger and primarily used as a midfielder or defensive midfielder. His stints on the right side were mostly due to injuries or suspensions of other players," Parales explained. "The results from those games have limited relevance. Essien is highly versatile, capable of excelling in multiple positions—even on the left."
Yang Hao didn't doubt Essien's versatility. Players with strong individual ability, technical skill, and football intelligence often adapt well to different roles. Failures to integrate usually stemmed from external factors like poor management or cultural mismatches rather than a lack of ability.
Wenger's decision to deploy Essien at right-back was clearly aimed at shoring up Real Madrid's most glaring weakness. No team in a final would leave such a vulnerability exposed. Real Madrid's right flank had been ruthlessly exploited by Atlético during their previous league encounter, and Wenger was determined to prevent a repeat.
"Will this patch hold up on the right?" Lillo asked.
Yang Hao thought for a moment. "With Wenger's approach and Essien's ability, it should hold up reasonably well."
Of course, this couldn't be confirmed until the match itself. But Yang Hao believed Wenger wouldn't take such a risk unless he felt confident.
"This makes the final even tougher," Lillo noted, frowning.
Both teams were stacked with game-changing superstars, making the outcome highly unpredictable.
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Meanwhile, in Real Madrid's locker room, Wenger and his staff were fully prepared as the players returned from warm-ups. Wenger stood silently, waiting for the players to complete their pre-match routines before stepping up to the tactical board.
"This is my first Champions League final as a manager," Wenger began candidly, acknowledging his inexperience.
"We're up against what many consider the strongest Atlético Madrid in history. The pressure is immense."
"But one thing remains true in every match: the key is to maximize our strengths and exploit the opponent's weaknesses."
"Every team has weaknesses, including Atlético."
Wenger pointed to the board displaying Atlético's lineup.
"Their midfield is their strongest area but also their biggest vulnerability. The same is true for us."
Wenger continued, laying out the final pieces of his strategy.
"Our weakness lies in technical skill and passing precision. Atlético is exceptionally skilled in these areas, with excellent chemistry. That's something we lack right now, though we'll catch up soon."
"We can't compete with them in midfield organization or ball control," Wenger admitted, prompting nods from the players.
"But," he added, pausing for effect, "we have our own strengths."
"Our advantage lies in our superior physicality and strength in duels."
Wenger was referring specifically to midfield battles. Outside of Drogba and their center-backs, Atlético generally trailed Real Madrid in physical attributes—not by much, but enough to make a difference. Atlético's strengths lay in their passing and coordination.
"We must leverage our physical strengths to neutralize their midfield, to suppress their ability to dictate the game."
"I need every one of you to give the best performance of your career tonight," Wenger urged.
"I know why you came to Real Madrid, and I know what you're striving for. Your goals are my goals."
The players straightened in their seats, visibly inspired. Some couldn't keep their legs still, their anticipation evident.
"Don't overestimate Atlético," Wenger continued. "Yes, we suffered a heavy defeat against them before, but we all know that was an anomaly. The gap between us and them isn't as wide as that game suggested."
"In fact, that defeat should motivate us. We need to prove to the world that we're just as good, if not better, than Atlético."
"Because we are Real Madrid!"
"Because we have some of the greatest players in the world—players who are second to none!"
"They have Kaká; we have Joaquín. They have Drogba; we have Ibrahimović. They have Messi; we have Cristiano Ronaldo."
"And more importantly, we have something they lack: strength, courage, and determination. These are our weapons!"
"Prepare to battle for 90 minutes! I believe that by the end of this match, you'll be holding the Champions League trophy, celebrating your championship and your glory!"
The Real Madrid players erupted, rising to their feet with cheers of determination.
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"Welcome, viewers, to the 2006/07 UEFA Champions League Final!"
"We're broadcasting live from the Olympic Stadium in Athens."
"The players are now walking out onto the pitch, led by the German referee, Herbert Fandel."
"Let's take a look at the starting lineups for both teams, starting with Atlético Madrid."
Atlético Madrid's Starting XI:
Forwards: Robben, Drogba, Messi
"This is undoubtedly the most luxurious forward line in world football today, and Atlético's bench still boasts star scorers like Torres and Villa," the commentator exclaimed. "In terms of attacking power, Atlético is unmatched in world football."
Midfield: Xabi Alonso anchoring, with Iniesta and Kaká playing centrally.
"This is the world's best midfield trio. They bring incredible attacking prowess, exceptional passing, and organization. Whether it's Iniesta's ball control or Kaká's bursts and precision passes, they leave a lasting impression."
"Xabi Alonso excels at long passes and orchestrating play. His defensive capabilities are also outstanding, earning him the title of the best defensive midfielder in the world today."
Defense: Evra, Thiago Silva, Lúcio, and Dani Alves.
"The story of how Atlético helped Thiago Silva overcome his health issues is well-known, and their kindness has paid off. Since joining Atlético, Thiago Silva has shown the qualities of a top-tier center-back."
"Together, Thiago Silva and Lúcio have solidified Atlético's defense, significantly enhancing its strength."
Goalkeeper: Petr Čech.
"At 25, Čech is in his prime as a goalkeeper. Since joining Atlético, he has quickly risen to become one of the world's elite keepers, with many comparing him to Buffon—an extraordinary compliment."
"As a goalkeeper, Čech is nearly flawless, perfectly suited to Atlético's system. If there's any minor weakness, it's that his passing isn't exceptional, but it's still solid."
"Looking at the entire squad, Atlético has the most formidable lineup in the world. With La Liga and Copa del Rey already secured this season, winning the Champions League would make history."
"Since the Champions League's format change, no team has successfully defended the title. Atlético is aiming to break that record tonight and claim another treble. It would be La Liga's second treble, with the first also achieved by Atlético in the 2003/04 season."
"If Atlético repeats their treble tonight and defends the Champions League, they will cement their place in history."
"Moreover, Atlético has already secured five consecutive La Liga titles this season, matching Real Madrid's historical record."
"Fans around the world are hoping Atlético can create a new legend tonight. Meanwhile, as their crosstown rivals and fiercest competitors, Real Madrid bears the heavy responsibility of stopping them."
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The Match Begins
"The referee blows the whistle, and the match begins! Real Madrid starts with the ball."
"Atlético pushes forward aggressively."
Atlético's high pressing immediately put pressure on Real Madrid's defense. After several passes back, Samuel launched a long ball toward the right flank.
Joaquín picked up the ball and tried to dribble past Evra. The two former teammates battled with rapid stops and starts, but Joaquín couldn't shake off Evra's tight marking and had to pass back.
Beckham received the ball and, before Iniesta could close in, delivered a precise diagonal long ball.
The ball curved beautifully toward the left side of Atlético's penalty area. Cristiano Ronaldo darted between Dani Alves and Lúcio, sprinting at full speed toward the box. However, no matter how fast Ronaldo was, the ball was just slightly faster.
Beckham's pass was highly threatening—had Ronaldo reached it, he could have shot directly on goal. But Ronaldo was a fraction too late, and the ball rolled out of play for an Atlético goal kick.
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Real Madrid's Aggressive Pressing
It quickly became clear that Real Madrid was pressing high up the field.
While Atlético pressing high was expected—Yang Hao was known for starting matches with intense attacks—tonight was different. Atlético opted for a more controlled approach, focusing on maintaining possession in their defensive and midfield zones.
Ibrahimović didn't press as much early on, but Ronaldo and Joaquín, like two giant claws, stayed upfield, harrying Atlético's backline. When the ball moved into midfield, Ibrahimović joined the press while Ronaldo and Joaquín conserved energy—a clear rotational strategy to manage stamina.
Real Madrid's pressing unsettled Atlético, disrupting their usual smooth passing and movement. The midfield struggled to connect, and several Atlético players were fouled while attempting to gain control.
Messi, carrying the ball on the right, was brought down by Ashley Cole. Iniesta was barged over by Beckham, and Kaká was fouled by Vieira before he could build momentum.
It was evident that Real Madrid's defensive strategy was highly targeted—aggressive fouling without crossing the line.
The fouls were precise and located in non-threatening areas, minimizing the danger from set pieces. Yang Hao began to suspect that Wenger's high defensive line was intentionally designed to facilitate these tactical fouls. Fouling near midfield posed little risk, but committing fouls near the penalty area would be far more dangerous.
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An Intense Battle
The match quickly became a fiercely contested back-and-forth. Real Madrid's players combined physicality and technical ability, maintaining a high level of play. Even Essien, known for his strength, displayed skillful passing under pressure.
The rapid pace of play, coupled with both teams' technical precision, made for an exhilarating spectacle.
Fans in the stands were engrossed, with cheers and gasps rising in waves. Time seemed to fly by—nearly 10 minutes passed without either team managing a shot on goal.
Finally, in the 9th minute, the first real chance of the match came.
Messi carried the ball, attempting to cut inside past Ashley Cole. Ballack stepped in to help and forced Messi to pass back to Kaká.
The Brazilian playmaker spotted Robben's run and delivered a pinpoint diagonal ball over the top toward the left side of the box.
Robben sprinted into the box and struck the ball on the volley, but Essien, tightly marking him, used his shoulder to disrupt the shot. Robben's effort skewed wide.
Two minutes later, Atlético threatened again. This time, Messi and Kaká drew defenders on the right side, freeing Dani Alves to deliver a sharp cross into the box. Drogba rose for a header but directed it straight into Casillas' gloves.
Atlético began to adapt to Real Madrid's pressing and gradually found their rhythm. The battle was just beginning.
"Xabi," Yang Hao called out loudly, cupping his hands around his mouth to project his voice.
When Xabi Alonso turned to look, Yang Hao gestured for him to slow things down and maintain control.
"Andrés," he shouted next, signaling for Iniesta to drop deeper and assist Xabi Alonso in controlling possession.
After adjusting the players' positions, Yang Hao observed the field for a while longer before retreating back to the bench.
"Wenger is using an English Premier League approach against us," Yang Hao remarked.
Juanma Lillo nodded in agreement.
This "Premier League approach" didn't mean the old-school long-ball tactics—it was more about high-tempo pressing and rapid transitions to counterattack after winning possession. Wenger had never been a proponent of outdated methods, even during his time in England.
Instead, the style relied on fast-paced pressing to force mistakes and quickly launching incisive counterattacks. It was a strategy frequently seen in the Premier League.
In contrast, La Liga emphasized control and rhythm, a style Atlético excelled at. Wenger, however, had no better choice.
Given Real Madrid's midfield configuration, competing with Atlético for ball control or tempo was unrealistic. Players like Ballack, Vieira, and Beckham weren't suited to such a style, and Pirlo's absence made things even worse for Real Madrid.
Since joining in the winter transfer window, Pirlo's refined organization and precise passing—especially his long balls—had added much-needed flexibility to Real Madrid's otherwise rigid midfield. His absence was palpable.
Yang Hao was reminded of how, in a previous era, Ancelotti at Chelsea had molded even a physically dominant player like Essien into a creative and reliable passer. Wenger appeared to be following a similar path, a style he had perfected during his time at Arsenal.
In Wenger's undefeated Arsenal season, the balance between physicality and finesse had been key. Now, Real Madrid seemed to be striving for a similar blend. Their recent acquisition of Yaya Touré signaled their intent to continue in this vein, though they still needed someone like Pirlo to anchor their creativity.
For now, Real Madrid lacked a capable replacement for Pirlo. Guti wasn't consistent enough, and youngsters like Gago and Parejo were still too inexperienced. While Wenger was keen to develop younger players, Real Madrid's immediate priority was to disrupt Atlético's intricate passing and prevent their attack from gaining momentum.
________________________________________
For Atlético, the key was not to get drawn into a contest of speed, physicality, or stamina with Real Madrid. Instead, they needed to dictate the rhythm, leverage their superior passing combinations, and patiently wait for Real Madrid to expose a weakness.
A high-energy pressing style like Real Madrid's came with a cost: rapid stamina depletion. Wenger's Arsenal teams had often experienced late-season collapses due to fitness issues, and this same dynamic would manifest within the course of a single match. Toward the later stages, gaps would inevitably appear.
This was the opportunity Atlético needed to exploit.
________________________________________
The Battle Continues
Time ticked by as the match remained fiercely competitive and captivating.
Atlético repeatedly sought to create danger through Drogba's hold-up play, Kaká's surging runs, Robben's dribbles down the left flank, and Messi's touches on the right.
Real Madrid, on the other hand, relied on swift counters following turnovers.
While Atlético's attacks posed greater threats to Casillas' goal, Real Madrid focused on long-range efforts to test Čech.
The relentless pressing and rapid transitions, hallmarks of the Premier League style, stretched the field and demanded immense physical effort, particularly from midfield and defensive players.
To their credit, Real Madrid's players gave everything. Even forwards like Cristiano Ronaldo, Ibrahimović, and Joaquín threw themselves into pressing, relentlessly harassing Atlético's backline during every pass and recovery.
This discipline and commitment reflected Wenger's control over the locker room, ensuring every player was fully invested.
As a result, Real Madrid avoided any glaring mistakes throughout the first half. Even Drogba, Atlético's usual focal point, found himself neutralized. If Real Madrid couldn't win the first ball, they fought to dominate the second. This disrupted Atlético's attacking rhythm and prevented them from sustaining their usual relentless pressure.
Yang Hao wasn't overly concerned, though. He understood how to overcome this problem—and he was content to play the long game.
For now, the match remained a stalemate. Both sides traded possession without either creating clear-cut chances.
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Targeting Essien on the Right Flank
One area of the pitch, however, stood out. Real Madrid's decision to deploy Essien as a right-back had paid off. He effectively stifled Robben, allowing few opportunities for the Dutch winger.
Aside from Robben's early chance, created by Kaká's diagonal pass, Essien largely kept him in check.
Despite this, Yang Hao refrained from making immediate adjustments. He was waiting.
Sitting behind Yang Hao on the bench, Albert Roca provided regular updates on player activity every five minutes, monitoring metrics like running distances, passing efficiency, and overall involvement. These figures also helped estimate players' stamina.
Based on first-half data, breaking through Essien's side would be challenging. Yang Hao's larger strategy focused on exploiting the late stages of the second half, where fatigue would expose vulnerabilities. However, he also recognized the potential for a dip in energy just before halftime.
By the 35th minute, Yang Hao signaled for his players to ramp up the pressure.
The emphasis remained on the left flank. Robben continued his assaults on Essien's side, though with limited success.
________________________________________
The Match Progresses
"Robben has been very active down the left, but Real Madrid was clearly prepared. Essien has been rock solid on the right," the commentator observed.
"Perhaps Atlético should consider varying their attacks. Messi, for instance, has been relatively quiet tonight."
On the field, Iniesta received the ball and attempted a pass into the penalty area. His intentions were too predictable, and Samuel intercepted the ball.
Real Madrid immediately launched a counterattack.
Yang Hao glanced at the clock—it was just over 40 minutes in.
"Xabi!" he called again.
Yang Hao moved back to the sidelines. Taking advantage of a dead ball situation, he called out to Xabi Alonso.
"Have Kaká and Messi move closer to Drogba. Shift the ball more. Let's launch one final push before halftime!"
Xabi Alonso nodded, acknowledging the instruction, and ran back onto the pitch.
________________________________________
42nd Minute
Atlético continued to focus their play down the left flank, passing the ball to Evra. The team appeared "stubborn" in their insistence on attacking from that side.
The commentators remarked, "Atlético seems overly reliant on their left wing tonight."
"Yang Hao's side has seen plenty of success attacking down the left in previous matches, so it makes sense they'd try the same approach tonight."
"But Wenger clearly anticipated this. Essien, starting as the right-back, has been exceptional so far."
"Now look at this—Evra's attempt is disrupted by Joaquín, so he passes to Xabi Alonso."
"In comes Iniesta to offer support."
But instead of passing to Iniesta, Xabi Alonso took a surprising approach. Using his left foot, he delivered a long ball toward the edge of the penalty area.
Drogba leaped high at the top of the box and flicked the ball with a header toward the right.
Real Madrid's players scrambled to claim the second ball, but Messi got there first. The Argentine quickly turned and shielded the ball.
Ballack and Ashley Cole closed in from both sides, trying to dispossess him. Despite being jostled and stumbling slightly, Messi maintained control. Under pressure, he managed to pass the ball to the right flank.
Dani Alves, charging forward at full speed, latched onto Messi's pass and surged toward the right side of the penalty area.
Ashley Cole turned and sprinted back to cover, while Messi followed closely behind Alves.
Drogba made a diagonal run toward the near post, forcing Vieira to follow him. Given Drogba's aerial prowess, he posed a massive threat to Cannavaro and Samuel, so Vieira stayed close.
Ballack stuck with Messi and also retreated into the penalty area.
Then came the unexpected. Alves, still some distance from the byline, suddenly stopped, pulling the ball back and delivering a cutback—a low diagonal pass into the box.
The pass bypassed Drogba and Messi entirely, landing at the right edge of the penalty spot.
This position, just behind Drogba and Vieira, had Cannavaro pulled deeper into the six-yard box.
Out of nowhere, a red-and-white blur appeared—Kaká, timing his run perfectly. Without taking a touch, he struck the ball first-time with a powerful shot.
The ball zipped through the crowd near the goalmouth and smashed into the left side of the net.
Casillas, diving full stretch, couldn't reach it.
"GOAL!!!"
"Atlético scores!!!"
"Kaká!"
"At the critical moment, Kaká breaks the deadlock just before halftime!"
"In the 42nd minute, Dani Alves provided the assist with a brilliant pass, and Kaká's late run and clinical finish gave Atlético the lead!"
"1–0!"
The entire Olympic Stadium erupted in thunderous cheers as Atlético fans celebrated wildly.
After scoring, Kaká sprinted off the field, crossing the track surrounding the pitch and raising both hands high toward the stands packed with Atlético supporters. The roar of the crowd welcomed him.
His teammates followed, surrounding Kaká in celebration.
"What a surprise!"
"Just as the first half was winding down, Atlético struck with a well-orchestrated attack."
"Drogba's header set things in motion, Messi's composure in holding the ball under pressure, and Alves' perfectly weighted cutback—all of it culminated in Kaká's decisive finish."
"This was an exquisite move by Atlético!"
"The build-up was fluid and caught Real Madrid completely off guard."
"Special mention to Dani Alves—his quick stop to shake off Ashley Cole and deliver that cutback was a moment of brilliance, showcasing his exceptional skill."
"Kaká's finish was equally stunning—a first-time shot straight into the bottom corner."
"An impeccable piece of teamwork!"
The stadium resonated with cheers and applause from Atlético's fans.
________________________________________
On the sidelines, Yang Hao remained composed.
He knew the broadcast cameras would inevitably pan to him, so he deliberately kept his demeanor calm, projecting an air of control as if this goal had been part of his plan all along.
In truth, Yang Hao had aimed to secure a goal before halftime. He understood how valuable such a lead would be going into the second half.
This goal now shifted the pressure squarely onto Real Madrid and Wenger.
Trailing by one, would Real Madrid press harder in the second half?
If they attacked, Atlético could punish them on the counter.
If they didn't, Atlético could hold onto their lead.
Furthermore, Real Madrid's current approach, reliant on high-intensity pressing, would only sap their stamina as the match wore on. By the latter stages, their legs would tire, making them increasingly vulnerable.
This was the inherent weakness of Wenger's tactics—a tradeoff of early pressure for late-game fatigue.
Of course, credit was due where it was deserved. Real Madrid's defensive discipline in the first half had been commendable. It was only toward the end of the half, as their energy waned, that mistakes began to creep in.
Had Pirlo been available, Real Madrid might have been able to manage the tempo better, contesting possession and reducing the physical toll of constant pressing.
________________________________________
Halftime Adjustments
"Real Madrid will definitely keep pressing in the second half!" Yang Hao declared during the halftime team talk.
"If I were in Wenger's position, I'd push even harder."
He elaborated, "If they don't press, they'll run out of steam by the 70th minute. By then, it'll be too late for them to mount a comeback."
"We can't sit back and defend. That's too passive. Stick to our game plan. Keep the ball moving near midfield and bait them into pushing higher. Then hit them with quick passes behind their lines."
"Whenever there's an opportunity, everyone can join the attack, but watch the offside line. Understood?"
Atlético's players nodded in unison. Over the past three seasons, they had mastered the nuances of modern offside rules, knowing precisely how to exploit them for maximum advantage.
"Remember this: if we can score another goal before the 70th minute, Real Madrid is done for!" Yang Hao addressed his players with confidence. "But if—and I mean if—they manage to equalize, it's fine. Stay calm and patient."
Yang Hao always planned for two scenarios. Matches could change in an instant, and nobody could predict every outcome.
His strategy for the second half was clear: maintain control of possession and dictate the tempo, exploiting the spaces behind Real Madrid's defense. If luck turned against them and Madrid equalized, there was no need to panic. The decisive phase of the match would come later.
Of course, if Atlético could extend their lead early, it would make things even better.
"I'm certain Wenger will be more aggressive in the second half," Yang Hao continued. "And that's why we need to remain even calmer. If they rush, we hold back. If they speed up, we slow it down. Pass the ball around and let them expose their own flaws.
"Remember, time is on our side now. Make them chase it."
The players all nodded in unison, replying with a resounding, "Understood!"
________________________________________
Second Half
As soon as Atlético kicked off, Real Madrid's front three pressed aggressively. Just as Yang Hao predicted, Wenger couldn't afford to wait any longer.
The professor understood the limitations of Madrid's approach better than anyone. Their strategy burned through energy to maintain parity on the pitch, and they now needed to capitalize while they still had the stamina to press.
Just four minutes into the half, Ibrahimović received the ball in the final third and played a horizontal pass to Joaquín, who was making a diagonal run behind the defense. However, Evra managed to trip Joaquín just outside the penalty area, giving Real Madrid a free-kick opportunity near the right edge of the box.
Beckham's curling attempt was headed clear by Thiago Silva.
Real Madrid continued their high pressing in Atlético's half.
In the 51st minute, Atlético attempted a counterattack. Xabi Alonso sent a precise pass to Kaká, who controlled the ball into an open space behind him and prepared to sprint forward. Vieira, however, committed a tactical foul, bringing the Brazilian down.
The referee immediately pulled out a yellow card for Vieira.
"That's a highly valuable yellow card for Vieira," the commentator noted. "Ashley Cole was ahead, but if Kaká had broken free, Madrid's backline would've had a hard time stopping the combined pace of Kaká, Drogba, and Robben. It would've been incredibly dangerous."
"When Kaká builds momentum, nobody can stop him."
Madrid's defense remained consistent in its willingness to foul strategically.
________________________________________
Just five minutes later, Atlético crafted another chance. Iniesta dribbled past Beckham and played a lateral pass to Kaká. The Brazilian took a long touch forward, accelerating through Vieira's defensive zone. The Frenchman gave chase, but Kaká, flanked by Drogba and Robben making overlapping runs, powered ahead.
Approaching Madrid's penalty arc, Kaká slowed down, facing Samuel one-on-one. Preparing to use his signature move to beat the defender or find an angle for a pass, Kaká poised himself for action.
But at the last moment, Vieira, trailing behind despite already having a yellow card, lunged into a sliding tackle. He swept both the ball and Kaká to the ground, drawing gasps from the crowd.
Drogba and Robben immediately raised their arms to appeal for a foul, but the referee motioned to play on.
"Replay shows that Vieira's tackle was indeed clean—a perfectly timed challenge," the commentator exclaimed. "In a moment like this, committing such a bold defensive move while on a yellow card takes tremendous courage."
"This is what star players bring to the table. They can do what others dare not and make it work."
"Now, the game has fully heated up."
"Both teams are throwing everything they have into this match. There's no room for either side to back down now."
"It's all about who cracks under pressure first."
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Vieira's tackle boosted Real Madrid's confidence. The veteran midfielder's calm and composed defense gave his teammates renewed belief.
However, time was running out, and Madrid's urgency grew palpable. By the 63rd minute, Wenger signaled for a substitution. Club captain Raúl began warming up, clearly brought on to lift the team's morale and encourage his teammates to press harder.
The battle in midfield was becoming increasingly ferocious.
Atlético tried repeatedly to break Madrid's defensive line, but the opposition's relentless pressing forced them to recycle possession.
In the 64th minute, Iniesta was forced to pass back to Thiago Silva, who played the ball across to Lucio. Lucio then passed to Dani Alves on the right flank.
Alves received the ball deep in Madrid's half and spotted Kaká making a run. He chipped the ball toward the Brazilian, who controlled it with his chest and laid it off to Xabi Alonso.
Xabi, unmarked, advanced slightly and played a square pass to Messi on the right side.
Kaká, now facing the goal, noticed Drogba drifting offside after an earlier forward run. Reacting quickly, he called out to Messi while making another sprint forward.
Messi immediately understood. Without pausing to control the ball, he deftly chipped a mid-range pass over Madrid's defensive line toward the right edge of the penalty arc.
The timing and precision of Messi's delivery were flawless, placing the ball perfectly in Kaká's path.
The Brazilian surged past Cannavaro and Ashley Cole, catching the pass in stride. Madrid's defense appealed for offside, but Drogba hadn't moved, and Kaká was onside.
Now one-on-one with Casillas, Kaká calmly squared the ball across to Robben, who had broken free from Essien on the left side.
With no defenders nearby, Robben slotted the ball into the unguarded net.
The Olympic Stadium erupted once more.
Nearly 30,000 Atlético fans jumped from their seats, roaring with joy.
Amid the celebrations, a young fan in the stands remained notably composed, his voice trembling slightly as he turned to his father.
"Dad," he said, "this is the team I dream of playing for one day."
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