I went and looked at all four Champions League semifinalists today because it's just Trap City you'd think. I couldn't justify fading Bayern Munich, Arsenal (still playing for a domestic title) or PSG, but this I sure can. Clearly the books agree with me as in normal circumstances, Atleti would not be a dog. But why they would play anyone of note ahead of the second-leg UCL match vs. Arsenal on Tuesday is beyond me. Really no domestic reasons that I can see.
I have a hard time believing Atlético Madrid will put in any real effort in this match. They’ve already secured Champions League football for next season and have a crucial UCL semi-final coming up midweek. The expectation is that Simeone will rotate his squad. Atleti haven’t taken La Liga seriously of late, winning just one of their last five matches (1-0-4).
