Two weeks ago they suffered a demoralising 4-0 defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, in what was to prove one of the straws that broke president Jesus Gils' back, when it came to sacking former manager Abel Resino. Now Quique Sanchez Flores holds the fort, and whilst they still lost his opening fixture in the league, there were definite signs that better things were to come. It seems tonight he is opting for a new formation, with three attacking midfielders playing behind a lone striker, Diego Forlan, which means only a place on the bench for their star-in-waiting, Sergio Agüero. It awaits to be seen if the move will bear fruit, but its a bold move from the new man in charge.
The stats arent looking rosy for Quiques men though, and the omens are firmly fixed in favour of the team from West London. Chelsea are yet to concede in this years edition of the Champions League, whereas Atletico are yet to score. Chelsea are on a run of 14 wins out of 16 in all competitions, whereas Atletico are rooted in the relegation zone in Spain. They will also have to contend with the return of Chelseas bigman, Didier Drogba. With nine goals already in the Premiership, he will be foaming at the mouth to get going in Europe. He is looking as threatening as ever and he will be a massive threat for a flimsy Atletico defence. The only stat in their favour is that they have never lost to an English team at home in seven previous European ties.
But football has no time for numbers. Today Atletico Madrid will have to bite the bullet. They will have to draw strength from their impassioned fans. They will have to forget about all thats gone on so far this year, and concentrate on downing one of the favourites for the competition. Yes or yes.