Mission Impossible

The odds are certainly stacked against Atlético. The 3-0 loss at the Santiago Bernabéu left the fans deflated, and the 'Rojiblancos'' cause won't be helped by the absence of several big-name players, whether through injury, suspension or being rested.

But Diego Simeone's side's breathtaking season thus far means that nothing can be ruled out. Atleti won't go down without a fight, as proven by the war cry issued by club president Enrique Cerezo, who stressed that "it wouldn't be the first time we have put three past Real Madrid".

This mood has rubbed off on the dressing room. There will be no lying down or throwing in the towel. The players will leave everything out there on the pitch in the attempt to beat the odds and qualify for the final.