Atletico Madrid’s head coach, Diego Simeone, has acknowledged Inter Milan as one of the premier teams in European football, in anticipation of their pivotal encounter in the Champions League Round of 16.
In their previous encounter last month, Inter secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Simeone’s squad, thereby obtaining a marginal advantage ahead of their forthcoming fixture at the Estadio Metropolitano on Wednesday evening.
Inter’s remarkable performance throughout the season is evident, as they currently dominate the Serie A standings with a 16-point lead and only 10 matches remaining. This commanding position allows them to allocate additional resources towards their aspirations in the Champions League, with a determination to surpass their runner-up finish from the previous season.
During a press conference reported by Calciomercato.com, Simeone addressed the prevailing sentiment that Atletico Madrid enters the fixture as underdogs against Inter.
“You always have to see day by day. The opinions that are reflected derive from what we have shown and we cannot deny that. Tomorrow we will play against one of the best teams in Europe.”
He underlined his belief in his players.
“I have absolute faith in my players and I know that they will play a great match tomorrow.”
The Argentinian coach was asked about his state of mind heading into the match.
“I have clear ideas about everything that is happening. We’ve had a good season so far but this is the time to get back to our level because football doesn’t forgive, when you make mistakes you lose and we have to grow by taking advantage of mistakes.”
Simeone commented on the mindset following Atletico’s loss to Cadiz on Saturday.
“I didn’t spend Saturday night well, but Sunday was already better and I know what I have available.”
He touched on the most important element against Inter.
“Concentration, the match requires a very high threshold of concentration and whoever manages to be less distracted will win the match.”
The Argentine coach spoke highly of Inter star Lautaro Martinez.
“Lautaro is of international level, one of the best in Europe, he’s demonstrated it at Inter and with Argentina.”
He provided an update on Antoine Griezmann.
“Having him with us offers us more solutions, we hope he is well and that he can play his game, the one he has in mind.”
Finally, Simeone was asked if it was positive that Atletico only lost the first leg to Inter 1-0.
“When you look at past matches, it’s not necessary, what matters is what happens tomorrow. The difference is not big, but certainly important. But we have a good team.”