On Wednesday, Atletico Madrid sealed their place in the semi-finals for the first time since 1974, and their debut appearance since the tournament was re-branded as the UEFA Champions League from the previously titled European Cup in 1992.
Los Rojiblancos successfully dispatched Barcelona over two legs to send Lionel Messi & Co. packing, much to the joy of both their supporters and neutrals alike.
Whilst Koke's goal was the shot that effectively eliminated the Blaugrana, a big reason for the squad's success was the heroics of young goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
The lanky 21-year-old has kept Messi from scoring in the six matches the two sides have met--something that many keepers many years his senior will certainly look on with much respect.
However, much to the dismay of Atletico fans--Courtois may not be able to feature in the semi-finals.
The reason? The Belgium international is on loan from Chelsea and due to a clause in his contract, he can't play against the Blues--unless if his new home are willing to stump up some serious cash.
The €6 million man: Atletico will have to cough up €3 million per game to field Courtois against Chelsea
If Atletico draw Chelsea in the Champions League semi-finals, it will cost them €6 million to play Thibaut Courtois: http://t.co/6gHqcnOCte
— Bleacher Report UK (@br_uk) April 10, 2014
Impressive: The young keeper only conceded 1 goal against Barcelona in 180 minutes
His heroics are also a big reason why Diego Simeone's men are the only unbeaten side still remaining in the competition--something that even reigning title holders Bayern Munich have not achieved.
Teammate Koke recognizes Courtois's vitality to his side as indicated by his remarks to the media:
Koke: I'd pay Courtois fee to face Chelsea - if I had the money http://t.co/uXW5UMaSgr
— AS English (@English_AS) April 10, 2014
Should the worst come to pass, and if fans will view an Atletico-Chelsea semi-final, second-choice shot-stopper Dani Arunzubia will be called upon in what will definitely be the biggest game of his career. The 34-year-old Spanish international was signed as a back-up to the young star this past summer.
Obviously, this is something that will please Chelsea fans and cause much worry for Atletico supporters. Then again, we just might see a Madrid derby tomorrow and old foes Jose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola facing off in the other match.
