Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone expressed disappointment that his team failed to capitalise on their periods of control in Tuesday’s 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid in the Champions League last-16 first-leg clash.
Despite falling behind early, Atletico responded well, with Julian Alvarez cancelling out Rodrygo’s opener before Brahim Diaz netted the winner for Los Blancos.
Missed Opportunities and Second-Leg Optimism
“We should have taken better advantage when we had control of the game,” Simeone admitted. “It’s difficult to take risks because one counter-attack can cost you the match. We managed that well but lacked something in the final metres.”
Looking ahead to the return leg at the Metropolitano, the Argentine remains optimistic, recalling how Atletico overturned a deficit against Inter Milan at the same stage last season.
“The atmosphere at home will give us a stimulus,” he said. “Maybe the fact that Real missed a late chance keeps the door open for what’s to come.”
Kylian Mbappe’s misplaced pass in stoppage time denied Vinicius Jr a clear goal-scoring opportunity, keeping Atletico within touching distance as they prepare for next week’s decisive clash.