UEFA.com works better on other browsers
For the best possible experience, we recommend using Chrome, Firefox or Microsoft Edge.

Atlético Madrid: story so far, key players, why they can win

It's been business as usual for Diego Simeone's side as they go quietly and impressively about their work. Runners-up in two of the past three seasons, will it now be third time lucky for Atleti?

Atlético Madrid: story so far, key players, why they can win
Atlético Madrid: story so far, key players, why they can win ©AFP/Getty Images

Story so far: Atlético Madrid
It's business as usual for Diego Simeone's team. Once again they are quietly and impressively going about their work, travelling under the radar and allowing others to take the limelight. They reached the knockout stage with two games to spare, finishing above Bayern in Group D, and then disposed of Leverkusen and Leicester without too much fuss.

Record this season: P10 W7 D2 L1 F13 A5

Highlights: Leverkusen 2-4 Atlético

Pivotal moment
There haven't really been any given Atlético's serene progress. Fernando Torres's clincher in the 4-2 win at Leverkusen in the round of 16 first leg all but wrapped up the tie after a performance notable for how expansive the visitors were. If required, the Spanish side have a decent Plan B.

Why this is Atlético's year
Atleti have had one hand on the trophy in two of the last three seasons, only for Real Madrid to snatch it away at the last. So will this be a case of third time lucky? In Antoine Griezmann they possess a world-class striker and their back line appears as frugal as ever. "Attacks win matches," Sir Alex Ferguson once said, "defence wins you titles."

Watch all Griezmann's UEFA Champions League goals

Main attraction: Antoine Griezmann – The Frenchman has had an incredible 18 months, showcasing his 'hotline bling' goal celebration on an almost weekly basis. Many regard the 26-year-old as the world's third-best player – the only thing lacking recently is silverware.

Rising star: Saúl Ñíguez – A remarkably versatile 22-year-old, who has played both centre-back and lone striker for Atleti, Saúl is one of the first names on the team sheet, (usually) as a box-to-box midfielder. His fine header at Leicester proved crucial to the Colchoneros' progress

Unsung hero: Jan Oblak – There was applause in the press box at one point during the Leverkusen return leg in the last 16 after Oblak, 24, pulled off three stunning saves in next to no time. He has six clean sheets so far.

Top Fantasy points scorers: Jan Oblak (56)