Clube Atlético Mineiro

Clube Atlético Mineiro, often shortened to Atlético or Galo (meaning “rooster”), is one of Brazil’s most historically significant and passionately supported football clubs. Based in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, they share a fierce rivalry with Cruzeiro, creating one of the most intense derbies in Brazilian football, known as the “Clássico Mineiro.”

Founded in 1908 by a group of students, Atlético quickly established itself as a major force in Minas Gerais. Early successes paved the way for national prominence, but sustained national glory proved elusive for many years. Despite a loyal and vocal fanbase, Atlético battled inconsistency and near misses.

The club’s golden era arguably arrived in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Led by the legendary Reinaldo, Atlético dominated the Campeonato Mineiro and consistently challenged for the national title. Reinaldo, considered by many to be Atlético’s greatest ever player, was a prolific goalscorer and a symbol of the club’s rebellious spirit. However, despite their talent, a national championship evaded them during Reinaldo’s reign.

Atlético Mineiro finally captured the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A title in 1971, a landmark achievement that cemented their place in Brazilian football history. The triumph sparked immense celebrations in Belo Horizonte and solidified the club’s devoted following.

The subsequent decades saw periods of both success and struggle. Copa CONMEBOL titles in the 1990s offered continental recognition, but the wait for another major national title continued.

A renaissance occurred in 2013, marking another significant chapter in Atlético’s history. Led by star players like Ronaldinho Gaúcho and Jô, and under the management of Cuca, Atlético Mineiro won the Copa Libertadores, South America’s most prestigious club competition. The victory sparked scenes of jubilation and cemented the club’s status as a continental powerhouse. The team’s dramatic comebacks and never-say-die attitude resonated deeply with the fanbase, further solidifying the “Galo Doido” (Crazy Rooster) nickname.

More recently, Atlético achieved further success in the 2021 season, winning the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A title after a 50-year drought. They also secured the Copa do Brasil, completing a domestic double and further solidifying their resurgence as a major force in Brazilian football. The team was led by a talented squad and the tactical acumen of coach Cuca, marking a triumphant return for both to the club.

Atlético Mineiro’s passionate fanbase, the “Massa Atleticana,” are known for their unwavering support and fervent displays of loyalty. Their iconic black and white striped jersey is a symbol of pride for fans across Minas Gerais and beyond. The club’s history is filled with iconic players, memorable moments, and a relentless pursuit of glory, making them a vital part of the Brazilian football landscape.