Madrid rivals on final journey into the unknown

For one Madrid side tonight in Lisbon, familiarity will breed contentment. For the other, the emotions will go a lot deeper than contempt.

It is the defining factor for this unique Champions League final, the first between two clubs from the same city. No two finalists have ever known each other better than Atletico Madrid and Real, yet it is precisely that knowledge — or, rather, the temporary lack of it — which gives this game an extra edge beyond even the local rivalry.

On this occasion, because of everything from mood to injury doubts over the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Diego Costa, they really won’t know what is precisely in store.