Simeone explains Atletico Madrid’s gameplan ahead of Barcelona showdown: ‘We are convinced…’

Simeone explains Atletico Madrid’s gameplan ahead of Barcelona showdown: ‘We are convinced…’

Barcelona and Atletico Madrid will lock horns in just over 24 hours at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano in a game that will decide one of the semifinalists of the UEFA Champions League.

Atletico Madrid have the upper hand with a two-goal lead and the home advantage. Barcelona, however, have shown to be the superior side overall and will have to mount a comeback if they are to keep their European goal alive.

After all the controversy around the first leg, the game on Tuesday will be played with massive hype and will be a do-or-die game for Hansi Flick’s men.

Simeone’s pre-match words

Speaking to the media ahead of the game, Diego Simeone was asked to explain his approach to the clash and how the dressing room was prepared for the reverse fixture.

He made it very clear that he and his side had a clear plan to implement on the night, one that gave them a good chance of qualifying for the semifinals.

“We are convinced of what we need and what we will look for. We have to play as we have been competing against them, we know that they are a very good rival, but also our goal, which is to qualify, ” he said.

Los Rojiblancos do have the home advantage on the night, a factor that could prove massive for the team. Simeone, however, was wary that no factor was worth considering as an advantage at this stage.

“Everything we imagine can be imagined. Then the game starts and everything can change,” the Argentine said.

Ready for the challenge vs FC Barcelona (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“The other day they left with the most advanced line. So faith and security in what we want,” he added.

The Atletico Madrid manager then began speaking on the squad situation he enters the game with, first beginning with his dilemma of whether to start Jan Oblak or Juan Musso.

“I have not yet made the decision, tomorrow at 19.00 at the hotel.”

He then made it clear that Clement Lenglet and Robin Le Normand, who will replace the unavailable Marc Pubill and David Hancko, are confident heading into the game.

“No need to talk to Robin [Le Normand] and Clement [Lenglet], they are clear about what we need.”

“Robin is growing up and Clement has a lot of experience, he knows his virtues and his flaws,” he added.

Towards the end of his conference, Simeone was asked what he made of the refereeing situation, especially given all the noise around the officiating in the first leg.

“I’m thinking about the team, I’m not thinking about the referees, they already have extreme pressure, I’m not thinking about them.”

Source: SPORT