I also believe in lucky charms

Former Real Madrid president Ramón Mendoza was obsessed with esoteric matters. Los Blancos won five league titles on the spin during the Quinta del Buitre era and he would always stick to the same ritual of wearing the same suit and tie to watch the title-deciding matches. He even went as far as eating in the same restaurant and ordering the same thing off the menu. Football is full of superstitious beliefs that have no scientific basis but that are instead wrapped up in pure emotion. There has to be something to them. We all have examples that prove the existence of divine fortune and others that show certain events to be cursed. I’d have you in stitches if I told you about some of the superstitious traits that exist in the AS newsroom.

I remember the Madrid tracksuit top I wore to Lisbon. The zip up with golden stripes running down the sleeves that was worn the year Ronaldo and Mourinho helped lead the team to breaking the La Liga points tally. I’ll be wearing the same garment in Milan. As it was with that piece of clothing I watched Sergio Ramos give Madrid a lifeline in the 93rd minute, there is no reason why I’d change it for something else at the San Siro. With that in mind I completely understand why four friends from Turégano, Segovia set out on a 1,600 kilometre road trip to the Italian city yesterday. I envy the adventure they have embarked on. To go on a journey with your mates with the sole purpose of enjoying yourselves and watching your team win. That is true happiness.