Beauty is very much in the eye of the beholder whenever Atletico come to play

History tells us that Atletico Madrid’s 1-0 advantage ahead of tonight’s Champions League last-16 second leg at Anfield makes them warm favourites to progress.

During Diego Simeone’s eight years as Atletico coach, his team have earned sometimes grudging admiration for their ability to defend with their backs to the wall, grab very useful away goals at key moments, and pull a cynical trick when required.