Chinese Fans Applaud Fernando Torres

The fans gathered at Shanghai Stadium cheered wildly when Fernando Torres stepped onto the field at halftime. When the entry of the "Niño" was announced on the stadium's video screens, the fans went crazy. And even more so when the red and white forward scored the third goal for Atlético. Then the crowd celebrated as if he had scored for their own team. Even more so.

The nearly 1,000 Chinese Atlético fans positioned themselves in front of the preference stand. "The great president Jesús Gil, the great captain Luis Aragonés." That is what was written on the enormous banner they displayed in that area, which they had already shown during the pre-match training. Many were wearing Atlético jerseys, and most had Fernando Torres' jersey. There was also a Fernando Torres jersey from his time with Liverpool. The local fans were disappointed that the "Niño" didn't score the second goal in a clear chance, and every time he touched the ball, a murmur of admiration could be heard. Outside the stadium, meanwhile, a group of young girls were selling red and white merchandise, Niño jerseys, Grizzi Chief jerseys, Gabi jerseys, Koke jerseys... Xu Xin's entry also prompted many applause, but the main protagonist of the match had been Torres. Pursued, adored, and idolized to unimaginable limits, Fernando Torres was able to score a goal to the delight of Chinese fans. And for his own delight, as Simeone knows that this year, having completed the preseason from the beginning, Torres can bring many joys to Atlético. He has already brought them during the Asian tour, both on and off the field. Torres' presence has multiplied the interest in the Atlético presence.