The epic comeback by Atlético de Madrid last Tuesday against Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League caused a lot of discussion. Most sports programs analyzed the match and the courage of the red-and-white players, who, despite the adversities, didn't give up. The match was marked by the expulsion of Pablo Barrios in the 23rd minute, which made things very difficult for Simeone's team.
Additionally, just before halftime, Xabi Alonso's team took the lead, making things look very favorable for them. However, the red-and-white team prevailed in what is one of the matches of the season. The sports world talked about the grit and courage of the "colchoneros," but from "El Chiringuito," that wasn't the most important thing.
Pedrerol's Words That Outrage
During a program lasting more than three hours, "El Chiringuito" didn't dedicate even 10 minutes to talk about Atlético de Madrid's epic comeback. They considered it much more important to spend a considerable amount of time discussing Xabi Alonso and Real Madrid. In that debate, Pedrerol commented: "If I were Florentino, I see that Xabi Alonso loses to Atleti and I would rule him out," said the host of the famous program.
These words were taken by many Atlético de Madrid fans as a lack of respect. Pedrerol seemed to consider it a humiliation to fall to the red-and-white team in the situation Leverkusen did. It is true that with one more player and leading 0-1, you should secure the victory, but Simeone's team is one that should never be counted out.
The Balance of the Last Five Encounters
Pedrerol's words sounded as if Real Madrid comfortably won all the derbies in recent years. However, the reality is entirely different, as it doesn't take much to verify it. Last season, four matches were played between both clubs, resulting in two victories for Atlético, one draw, and one victory for Madrid.
As for this season, only one match has been played, and it ended in a draw. Therefore, in the last five encounters, Real Madrid has only achieved one victory, and it was in overtime.