Atletico Madrid has become the ultimate wildcard! Atletico defeated Real Madrid 5-2 and Barcelona 4-0, yet they still trail Real and Barca by 12 points in La Liga.

Who stands out as the top wildcard across the big five leagues this season? Some point to Premier League’s Tottenham, whose league position is close to relegation but secured fourth place in their Champions League group to reach the knockout rounds; others highlight La Liga’s Atletico Madrid, where Simeone’s traditionally cautious approach still manages to produce wins over Real and Barca by three-plus goals, despite trailing them by 12 points in the league.

In the early hours of February 13th Beijing time, during the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinals, Atletico Madrid stunned Barcelona with a 4-0 home victory, having already built a four-goal lead before halftime—effectively sweeping Barca in just one half.

Earlier, Atletico had thrashed Real Madrid 5-2 at home in the seventh round of La Liga, truly “beating up” the Madrid giants. Fans unfamiliar with the league might think Atletico are the kings of La Liga this season. However, looking at the standings, Atletico are third but far behind the top two, Barcelona and Real Madrid. After 23 rounds, Barca has 58 points, Real 57, and Atletico 45—trailing the Madrid clubs by at least 12 points, making a title challenge unlikely, though a top-four finish seems secure.

Does Simeone claim he doesn’t focus on attacking tactics? His Atletico this season has delivered big wins over both Real Madrid and Barcelona, truly a wildcard coach leading a wildcard team. Given Atletico’s current strength and consistency, winning the Copa del Rey and securing a top-four La Liga finish for Champions League qualification would be considered a successful season. Atletico can be seen as La Liga’s “Robin Hood,” playing fiercely against the top clubs but lacking intensity against weaker opponents.