Atletico Madrid Coach Diego Simeone Confident of Rallying Against Rivals Real Madrid

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone is confident his squad can overturn a one-goal deficit against Real Madrid in the second leg of their Champions League Round of 16 clash on Wednesday.

After suffering a 2-1 loss in the first leg last week, Simeone remains hopeful that they can triumph against their arch-rivals at home.

“I have faith in my players and trust this team,” the Argentine coach told the media on Tuesday. “I fully recognise the passion they possess, and I’m certain we will be fighting to stay in the Champions League. Our goal is to reach the final.”

“Football presents various scenarios throughout the match. We will undoubtedly face challenging moments… The composure, clarity, and talent of the players will ultimately determine the outcome. The game will unfold accordingly.”

Simeone aims to motivate his younger players while acknowledging the importance of staying calm, especially with a fervent home crowd rallying behind them.

“Our supporters will spur us on, but the truth is it’s what unfolds on the pitch that matters. We won’t win simply because of the atmosphere in the stands. We need to deliver an outstanding performance,” Simeone remarked.

“I would ask the younger players if they ever envisioned taking part in matches like these, and I’m sure they’d respond with a no. It’s the most wonderful experience as they begin to accumulate their experience in these types of games.”

Simeone also noted that his counterpart at Real, Carlo Ancelotti, shares similar sentiments regarding the match, although he believes the Italian has the upper hand as a coach.

“The opposing team’s traits, with players as dynamic as Vinicius Jr and (Kylian) Mbappé, lend themselves to that attacking style… We are a cohesive unit that can shift between pressing high, playing deep, possessing the ball, and defending without it.”

“Having spent many years in Italy, I understand how experiences in Italian football can be akin… yet it’s evident that Carlo Ancelotti is superior to me in this regard.”