Atletico's impressive tifo: You are the essence of Spain & the giant of football

Atletico Madrid's match against Barcelona began before Jesus Gil Manzano brought his whistle to his lips to signal the beginning of proceedings.

Before then, the players made their way towards the pitch amid an impressive backdrop, with a stunning show of lights followed by chants.

Then, it was the turn of the fans as the players made their way from the dressing room to the tunnel and, ultimately, the pitch.

It was then that banners were unfolded and cards were raised aloft as fans unveiled the biggest tifo display in Atletico's 115-year history.

"You are Spain's essence and the giant of football," was the poetic message spelled out in the massive display, along with the silhouette of a player kicking a ball.

The phrase corresponds to the anthem of the old Metropolitano back in the late 1940s.

It was a tribute in the present to the club's historic past.