Atletico Madrid targets rare Copa del Rey success with Griezmann's departure looming

via The Namibian2 hours ago6 min read

Atletico Madrid is focusing on the Copa del Rey final against Real Sociedad after eliminating Barcelona from the Champions League. Fans are invoking the "spirit of '96," referencing Atletico's historic double win 30 years ago. Coach Diego Simeone and player Antoine Griezmann, who is set to leave for MLS side Orlando City at the end of the season, are both keen on securing a trophy. Griezmann, Atletico's all-time top goalscorer, briefly considered an early exit in March but decided to stay to compete for the Copa del Rey and Champions League. Simeone expressed his hope that Griezmann would achieve his ambitions before leaving, acknowledging him as a "football genius." While Atletico has won La Liga titles under Simeone, their Copa del Rey success has been limited, with only one win in 2013. Real Sociedad, their upcoming opponent, won the 2020 edition and is looking for another victory, especially in front of their fans. Both teams are known for their counter-attacking style, suggesting an intense match.

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🇳🇦The Namibian·1 hour ago

Bayern Munich on the verge of Bundesliga title after Champions League success

Bayern Munich is poised to secure their 35th Bundesliga title this Sunday, just days after advancing to the Champions League semi-finals by defeating Real Madrid. With a 12-point lead and five games remaining, the Bavarian giants can clinch the title at home with a win against Stuttgart. A victory on Sunday guarantees the title regardless of Borussia Dortmund's result against Hoffenheim. If Dortmund loses, a draw would be sufficient for Bayern. Coach Vincent Kompany might consider resting key players ahead of a German Cup semi-final against Bayer Leverkusen. Despite their dominance in the league, Bayern has not reached the German Cup final since 2020. Stuttgart, currently third in the league, has shown strong form, losing only two of 16 games since their last encounter with Bayern in December. The two teams could potentially meet again in the German Cup final in Berlin in late May. Stuttgart forward Jamie Leweling emphasized the need for courage and bravery, but not recklessness, when facing Bayern. In other news, Hamburg defender Luka Vuskovic, on loan from Tottenham, has been crucial in his team's efforts to avoid relegation. Hamburg faces Werder Bremen on Saturday, with a win potentially securing their Bundesliga status for next season.

Atletico Madrid targets rare Copa del Rey success with Griezmann's departure looming

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