Atlético Returns to the Site of Past Tragedy
On May 7, 2000, Atlético de Madrid faced a pivotal moment in their history. The team played against Real Oviedo in a match that led to their relegation to the Second Division. This event is often referred to by fans as ‘Lo de Oviedo’, marking a haunting memory for many.
Revisiting a Dark Chapter in Atlético’s History
Twenty-six years later, Atlético de Madrid returns to Oviedo for another league match. This will be their first visit since that fateful day, taking place on the evening of May 7, 2026. The match is particularly poignant for fans who recall the heartbreak of the 2000 season.
The Match that Changed Everything
On that day in 2000, Atlético’s fate seemed sealed as they struggled to secure a win. The final score was 2-2, resulting in their automatic relegation. Luis, the president of the Peña Rojiblanca 17 de mayo, recalls the moment vividly, stating, “It was the worst football memory of my life.”
The importance of the match was underscored by its historical context. Both teams were fighting to avoid relegation, adding tension to an already high-stakes scenario. Notably, the atmosphere at the Estadio Carlos Tartiere was electric, with thousands of fans passionately supporting their teams.
Key Moments of the Game
- Time: 85th minute
- Key Player: Jimmy Hasselbaink, who missed a crucial penalty
- Final Score: 2-2, leading to Atlético’s relegation
Luis vividly remembers the moment when the referee awarded a penalty to Atlético late in the game. “I was in shock, and the feeling of despair was palpable,” he recalls. Unfortunately, Hasselbaink’s miss remains a painful reminder of that day.
Return to a Changed Oviedo
As Atlético prepares for the match on May 7, 2026, they will stay at a hotel built on the location that once housed their darkest memory. The hotel stands near the Palacio de Congresos, replacing the old Tartiere stadium, which was demolished years ago.
This return marks not only a chance to face Real Oviedo again but also a moment for the club to reflect on its growth. Since that relegation, Atlético has achieved significant success, including a successful domestic campaign and European appearances.
Looking Ahead
Today, Atlético de Madrid is a much stronger team, currently ranked 4th in La Liga and brimming with talent. This includes standout players like Griezmann and Sorloth, who have made significant contributions to the team’s performance.
Meanwhile, Real Oviedo finds itself at the bottom of the league standings, battling to avoid relegation once more. They hope to leverage their home advantage to secure a much-needed victory.
As both teams gear up for this match, the memories from 2000 still linger in the minds of many supporters. Atlético’s journey since that incident has been marked by resilience, making their reunion with Oviedo a compelling narrative of survival and redemption.
