Europa League Final: Clint Dempsey Could Be First American To Win European Trophy
By Ty Duffy
Fulham: This is the biggest match in Fulham’s history. The South London club was founded in 1879. They have never won a major trophy, reaching just one FA Cup Final in 1975. Manager Roy Hodgson has worked wonders with limited talent. Their players work hard and play cohesively with excellent tactical discipline. They close down space and don’t let opponents rest. They fought their way here, erasing a 3-1 deficit to Juventus in the quarterfinals. If you have a heart, it’s hard not to root for them.
Atletico Madrid: They are Fulham’s opposite. Atletico is the third most successful club in Spanish history besides Barcelona and Real Madrid, having won 9 La Liga titles. They have a ton of talent – Diego Forlan, Sergio Aguero, Jose Antonio Reyes – and not much organization. They lined up nine potential managerial replacements in 24 hours this season before settling on Quique Sanchez Flores. Atletico have disappointed in La Liga. They entered the Europa League after failing to advance in the Champions League. They won just two matches en route to the finals. They do have a reputation in Spain for blowing opportunities.
Prediction: Rooting for Fulham, but I like Atletico Madrid in a close one. Fulham has a number of players battling injury issues. If there is one decisive advantage, it’s Atletico Madrid’s attacking talent.