Key man
Miguel Martinez
A typical Argentine centre back, Martinez is a sturdy hulk of a defender, with a decent pedigree. As a youth player he spent time with Argentina’s Racing Club and Spain’s Athletico Madrid. Martinez will have his hands full, though, if they proceed beyond the quarters, but he remains the lynchpin of the side, although is no stranger to a red card, as shown in last month’s disappointing rematch with beaten Concacaf finalists Cruz Azul.
Also look out for
Fernando Navarro
The attacking midfielder has become key to setting up Atlante’s attacks. It was his pass that set up the first goal against Cruz Azul in the final and the young forward is rapidly starting to fulfill his potential as a real dangerman in the opposition’s half.
Rafael Marquez Lugo
Commonly known as Marquez Lugo, to differentiate himself from Barcelona defender and fellow Mexican national Marquez, Lugo’s international appearances have been limited despite a promising youth career. A series of journeyman moves across South American football eventually led to a successful stint at Atlante last season where he bagged 10 goals in 25 games.
How they got here
In only their second season in Cancun, where they relocated from Mexico City due to poor attendance, Atlante overcame an unconvincing show in their native league, as well as the postponement of the inaugural Concacaf Champions League final due to swine flu, to convincingly beat Cruz Azul in the final.
The history
Founded back in 1916, they were originally a team of young Mexican enthusiasts allegedly named after the famed battles fought in the Atlantic during World War I. They were extremely popular among the working classes and swiftly became known as the ‘people team’. Having won the Concacaf cup previously in 1983, the team now known as The Iron Colts have won three Mexican league titles in total, most recently in 2007.
The coach
Jose Guadalupe Cruz
Coach Jose Guadalupe Cruz has created a fine blend of up-and-coming talents and battle-hardened veterans for his side. The embattled coach is a shrewd tactician and has fashioned a steady team that tends to strike quick on the break.
How they’ll fair
Atlante are looking like one-hit wonders. The cup-winning form of last year has already looked a little shaky after defeat to Cruz Azul last month. Chances are they’ll struggle against the more skillful teams.
Prediction
A brave semi-final loss to Barcelona looks likely.
