Bucarest

Atlético Madrid have a five point lead over Barcelona and six over Real Madrid, who play today against Real Sociedad, after their 2-0 win over Villarreal.

After seven games in a row without a clean sheet, the Atleti coach decided to park the bus and go for a nil-all draw. The gambit did not work.

Atlético Madrid play Chelsea in the Champions League… in Bucharest, due to the covid-19 pandemic. Alfredo Relaño looks at Simeone’s side ahead of the tie.

For some years we have looked upon these phases of qualification as being too easy, but we must not lose perspective.