Yannick Carrasco: Atlético Madrid deserve to win a Champions League | OneFootball

After suffering a pair of Champions League final heartbreaks against rivals Real Madrid, Yannick Carrasco believes Atlético Madrid deserve to win Europe’s premier competition.

In 2014, Atlético were just moments away from lifting the trophy before a 93rd-minute Sergio Ramos goal sent the match to extra-time, where Real Madrid would score a trio of goals in the final 10 minutes.

Just two years later, they nearly reversed their fortunes but fell on penalties as Juanfran was the only player from either side to scupper his attempt from 12 yards.

Atlético now find themselves in this year’s quarter-finals against a short-handed RB Leipzig side after knocking off title-holders Liverpool and Carrasco thinks it’s finally their time to shine.

“It’s true that Atlético deserve a Champions League after losing two finals in such difficult circumstances,” he told Marca.

“After being ahead and conceding in the last minute in the first and then losing on penalties in the second, I think Atletico deserve to win this trophy.

“We respect RB Leipzig – they’re a good, competitive team. They finished third in Germany, which means they’re a good side.

“It’ll be a difficult match and we’ll need to know how to hurt them to win the match.”

Atlético Madrid are the only side to lose three finals without winning, having also lost the 1974 final against Bayern Munich.