Atlético Madrid has always been the ultimate disruptor in Spanish football, challenging the duopoly of Barcelona and Real Madrid.

The Spanish Super Cup serves as a perfect battleground for the “Colchoneros” to showcase their famous grit and determination.

While they may not have as many trophies as their rivals, their appearances have often been defined by high-intensity matches and tactical masterclasses.

From historic victories in the 80s to modern-day battles in the desert, Atleti’s journey is one of resilience.

Let’s dive into the most iconic moments of the red-and-white in this prestigious competition.

Breaking the Cycle: The Historic Triumphs

Atlético’s relationship with the Spanish Super Cup reached a pinnacle in 1985 and 2014.

In 1985, they overcame Barcelona in a thrilling two-legged affair to claim their first official title.

Decades later, under the leadership of Diego Simeone, they repeated the feat by defeating Real Madrid.

This 2014 victory was particularly sweet, as it came shortly after their La Liga title win, solidifying their status as a European powerhouse.

The 2014 final highlighted the defensive discipline that has become synonymous with the club.

A solitary goal from Mario Mandžukić at the Vicente Calderón was enough to secure the trophy.

For the fans, winning the Spanish Super Cup against their cross-town rivals remains one of the most cherished memories of the “Cholo” era.

Iconic Clashes and the New Format Challenge

With the tournament’s evolution into a four-team “Final Four” format, the Spanish Super Cup has become even more competitive.

Atlético Madrid was part of the inaugural revamped edition in 2020, reaching the final after a stunning comeback against Barcelona in the semi-finals.

Although they narrowly lost the final on penalties, the tournament proved that Atleti can thrive under the new knockout pressure.

• 2020 Final: A tactical battle against Real Madrid that ended in a dramatic penalty shootout.
• Semi-Final Heroics: Consistently knocking out higher-seeded teams to reach the final stage.
• Global Reach: Showcasing the “Atleti way” to international audiences in Saudi Arabia.

A Legacy of Resilience and Tactical Mastery

Every time Atlético Madrid enters the Spanish Super Cup, they bring a unique intensity that unsettles the biggest clubs.

Their appearances are characterized by a “never say die” attitude that resonates with supporters worldwide.

Whether as league champions or cup winners, they treat every minute of the competition with the utmost respect and passion.

As the club looks toward future editions of the Spanish Super Cup, the goal remains the same: to add more silverware to the trophy cabinet.

The blend of veteran experience and young talent ensures that Atlético will remain a formidable contender for years to come.

Their history in this tournament is a testament to the club’s enduring spirit and its ability to compete at the highest level.

Which Atlético Madrid victory in the Spanish Super Cup do you think best defines the “Cholo Simeone” era—the 2014 win over Real Madrid or the 2020 semi-final comeback against Barca?