Sat Nov 08 16:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Atlético Madrid Faces Familiar Foe Levante in Champions League Push

Madrid, Spain – Atlético Madrid welcomes Levante to the Metropolitano stadium today, hoping to secure a Champions League spot before the international break. However, history suggests this won’t be an easy task, as Levante has consistently proven to be a difficult opponent for Diego Simeone’s side.

Dubbed “El Coco” (The Bogeyman) for Atlético, Levante has been a persistent thorn in their side, disrupting title aspirations in the past. Simeone’s recent record against them is poor, with no wins in their last four encounters.

Despite their historical struggles against Levante, Atlético are in good form. They’ve recovered from a shaky start to the season and currently occupy a Champions League qualifying position. A strong run of victories at the Metropolitano, including wins against Osasuna, Sevilla, and Union SG, has been crucial. They are also on a impressive streak of scoring in every league game so far and haven’t conceded a league goal in three matches. A win today, with a goal, would equal a club record for goals scored in the opening 12 league matches, last set by Luis Aragonés’ team in 1982-83.

Atlético will be without Le Normand due to injury and Nico is a doubt, but the expected lineup includes key players like Giménez, Barrios, Giuliano, Julián, and Oblak. There is also a possibility of Cardoso getting minutes.

Levante, managed by Calero, arrives at the Metropolitano with mixed results. While their home form has been inconsistent, they have shown resilience on the road, securing two wins and two draws in six away games. The squad is depleted, especially in midfield and attack, with Calero facing selection headaches.

Despite their challenges, Levante will be looking to exploit Atlético’s vulnerability, once again playing the role of “El Coco” and disrupting their Champions League ambitions.

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