The second Madrid derby Champions League final in three years may have ended with the same result as the first, but it was a superb clash between two very even sides that were very ­familiar with each other. Real ­Madrid ­triumphed over cross-city rivals Atletico 5-3 on penalty kicks to win their 11th Champions League trophy, making them the most successful side in the tournament by a big margin.

While many neutrals would have been hoping for an Atletico win, which would have been their first ever, Real confirmed their status as the kings of Europe both now and for the entire ­history of the Champions League. Making matters worse about Real's victory was that it was crowned by a winning penalty by Cristiano Ronaldo who then promptly peeled off his shirt so he could strut around showing off his insanely sculpted torso. It did not matter that he had not played a significant role in the game until the end, as nothing stops Ronaldo from paying tribute to himself. Vanity aside, Real's victory was impressive, as they prevailed in a game in which Atletico were supposed to have been the favorites.

Atletico's wins over Bayern Munich and Barcelona in the previous stages left them with big hopes of beating Real, but instead, Los Merengues took control of the game from the start. Real scored first, but gradually Atletico started to assert themselves and scored a deserved equalizer in the second half, after earlier missing a penalty. The game went into extra time as it did in the 2014 final, but Atletico were unable to capitalize, and penalty kicks decided the game.

However, there were some dubious events starting from Real's goal - which was arguably offside - and the blatant ­playacting of Real defender Pepe in ­trying to get Atletico players carded. Despite that, Real went toe to toe with Atletico in physical play, with even Ronaldo and ­Gareth Bale contributing defensively.

The outcome of the game may still have ramifications for Atletico beyond just heartbreak. Specifically, manager ­Diego Simeone admitted afterward that he was unsure about whether he would continue with the club that he has led since 2011.

Simeone has won everything there is that could be won with Atletico, except the Champions League, and a second disappointment at the final stage may push him to seek further challenges elsewhere.

If Simeone goes, it would call into question Atletico's prowess in Spain and Europe. The team has managed to keep up with Barcelona and Real thanks to a gritty, organized and determined style of play that takes after Simeone. The last thing fans need is for Barcelona and Real to have an easy path to La Liga and Champions League glory.

The author is a Hong Kong-based freelance writer. hcpyip@gmail.com