Another year, yet another Champions League final featuring a Spanish team. Although this year we have two Spanish teams, and both from the same city to boot.

But wait, haven't we seen this story before? Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid facing each other in a Southern European country. Yes we have, in 2014 we saw the Madrid derby played in Lisbon, now we get to see them in Milan, Italy for the 2016 Champions League title.

Gareth Bale continued his fantastic run of form, scoring the game's only goal. Cristiano Ronaldo came back from injury to provide a boost, almost scoring a goal in the process. Even though the highly paid, mesmerizing stars get all the publicity for their goal scoring ways, Luka Modric was just as intregal in securing the win on Madrid's home soil. The Croatian put in his typical blue collar type work in the midfield, instigating attacks with thoughtful passes and locking up Manchester City's offensive flow.

Portuguese international Pepe as well spearheaded the defensive effort for los madridistas. It's a shame for youngster Raphael Varane, who although has displayed the talent to be one of the world's best centerbacks, has been denied the chance of regular playing time because of Pepe's continuation of spectacular play.

What is driving Madrid's top two teams' successes? They have vastly different philosophies, yet are achieving similar results. Real Madrid are the traditional power, and spend big money to bring in the game's biggest stars. Atléti rely on shrewd management, grooming their players to be the game's biggest. Think Diego Costa, Fernando Torres (who has come back), Sergio Agüero among others.

It is really a testament to the coaching of the two clubs. Both former legends at their respective clubs, Zinedine Zidane for Real Madrid and Diego Simeone for Atlético. Simeone has been strutting the sidelines for los rojiblancos for a few years now, and had instituted a philosophy of hard work and a pressing style. Zindane, taking over for Rafa Benitez when Real was barely more than a sinking ship, has opened up the attacking scheme. Taking them from 13 points off the lead for La Liga to within one point of the crown.

Madrid's teams square off on May 28, leaving plenty of time for things to occur and develop. In the short term, both are looking to win out in the final matches of their domestic season, as both are on Barcelona's heels for the La Liga championship. However Real Madrid must be cautious when it comes to the health of its players. Bale has been fragile throughout the year, Karim Benzema had to sit out against Man City and Ronaldo just came back from a two match lay off himself.

Hopefully both teams arrive at full strength and provide a final just as thrilling as the 2014 edition.

Photo: Flickr