8 May 2014 - Vicente Calderón Stadium, Madrid, Spain
The journey to Madrid for the Europa League semifinal second leg carried with it the weight of history and the promise of a continental final. The 2-0 first leg advantage had provided hope and confidence, but the Vicente Calderón Stadium was one of European football's most intimidating venues, and Atlético's quality on home soil would test every aspect of Utrecht's development as a team capable of reaching the pinnacle of continental competition.
The week between the two legs had been filled with tactical refinement and mental preparation, with the coaching staff working to ensure readiness for the different challenges that away fixtures at elite venues presented. The Calderón's capacity of 54,000 and passionate supporters would create an atmosphere unlike anything experienced during their European journey.
