Giuliano Simeone explains his version of controversial Cubarsi dismissal: ‘I knew he was the last man’

Giuliano Simeone explains his version of controversial Cubarsi dismissal: ‘I knew he was the last man’

Atletico Madrid’s 2-0 victory over Barcelona in the Champions League quarter-final first leg was influenced by several key moments, but few were as decisive as the early incident involving Giuliano Simeone.

The Argentine forward played a crucial role in turning the game in his side’s favour, winning the foul that ultimately led to Pau Cubarsi’s red card.

That moment shifted the entire momentum of the contest and contributed to the Blaugrana’s defeat.

With Barcelona reduced to ten men before half-time, Atletico were able to take control of key phases, and that advantage proved crucial.

Giuliano Simeone takes the stage

After the match, Giuliano reflected on the importance of the result, while also acknowledging that the job is far from finished.

Speaking about the first-leg outcome, he made it clear that facing Barcelona always requires caution, regardless of the scoreline.

“Against Barcelona, few results are decisive. They are a great team. They have some outstanding players. We put in a huge effort to try and get this result.

“We have to keep working and focus on our own game. Keep improving things; I believe that as a team we can do it. Get to where we want to be.”

The numerical advantage

Cubarsi was sent off against Atletico Madrid. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

Despite having a numerical advantage for a significant portion of the match, Giuliano insisted that Atletico’s approach did not fundamentally change.

According to him, Barcelona’s identity remains consistent regardless of circumstances, which meant his team had to stay disciplined and adaptable throughout.

“Whether they’re a man down or a man up, they play the same way. So the approach is the same. Try to play, press, and defend.

“Adapt to what the game demands in different situations, and adapt to that. That’s what makes us a better team. We have to keep correcting things and focus on ourselves.”

Cubarsi’s red card

Naturally, the conversation also turned to the controversial red card incident involving Cubarsi, a decision that Barcelona have strongly questioned since the final whistle.

Giuliano offered his perspective on the moment, describing how the play unfolded from his point of view.

“Julian kicked the ball at my back. I knew he was the last man. I haven’t watched the incident back, but I got in his way and went through on goal, and I felt the contact.

“The referee initially showed a yellow card, but then, after consulting VAR, he showed a red,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo