What’s the story?
Real Madrid overcame Atletico Madrid in a pulsating second leg of the Champions League semi-final. Atletico Madrid got off to a flier and were 2-0 up within the first 15 minutes at the Vicente Calderon. However, a goal from Isco late in the first half quietened the electric atmosphere at Vicente Calderon and Cristiano Ronaldo riled up the home fans more by signalling them to keep quiet with the ‘shush’ gesture.
This gesture did not go down well with Fernando Torres who clashed with the Portuguese superstar seconds after the gesture. TV images showed a visibly unhappy Torres rebuking the Portuguese star for the gesture.
In case you didn’t know...
Fernando Torres is a boyhood Atletico Madrid fan and his connect with the fans at the Vicente Calderon is something very special. Having played at Rojiblancos since the age of 9, one can understand why Torres was not impressed by the Portuguese superstar’s gesture.
Also, that goal ended any slim hopes of Atletico Madrid progressing to the final and Ronaldo gloating would have only rubbed salt into the wounds of both Atletico Madrid supporters and Fernando Torres.
Also read: Atletico Madrid 2-1 Real Madrid: Player Ratings
The heart of the matter
This is not the first time that Atletico Madrid have agonisingly fallen short of the Champions League title thanks to their arch rivals Real Madrid. Also, since this was the last ever European match at the Vicente Calderon, emotions and tensions were running high.
Isco’s goal all but confirmed Atletico Madrid’s exit at that point of time and it is easy to see why Fernando Torres was riled up by the celebration and gesture towards his beloved Vicente Calderon crowd.
What’s next?
Real Madrid will be looking to become the first team to defend the Champions League crown when they face Juventus in Cardiff on June 4th. Los Blancos will have to be at their best if they are to get the better of Allegri’s supremely impressive Juventus side and it will be interesting to see how Zidane’s team cope up with that challenge.
On the other hand, Fernando Torres’ contract at Atletico Madrid is coming to and end and with no signs of a contract renewal, the Atletico Madrid legend might have to look for a new club before the start of next season.
Also read: Glorious failure a fitting finale for Atletico’s Calderon
Author’s take
A Madrid derby is always full of passion and it is understandable that a tiny gesture like that from Cristiano Ronaldo towards the fans became a flashpoint between him and Torres last night.
