Atlético Madrid coach Diego Simeone believes Real Madrid’s failure to secure a third goal in their 2-1 Champions League victory on Tuesday has left the last-16 tie wide open ahead of the second leg.
In a thrilling Madrid derby at the Santiago Bernabéu, Rodrygo gave Real the lead just four minutes into the game. Atlético quickly responded with an equalizer from Julián Álvarez before Brahim Díaz restored Real’s advantage.
Despite Real Madrid controlling the scoreline, Atlético dominated large spells of the match. However, Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior missed a late chance to seal a decisive third goal, keeping Atlético in contention as the tie shifts to the Metropolitano on March 12.
Simeone Sees Opportunity for Atlético Madrid in Second Leg
“We ended up competing well,” Simeone said in his post-match press conference.
“There was a risk at the end with Mbappé and Vinícius, but them not scoring gives us hope. The door remains open for what’s to come.”
Acknowledging the challenge ahead, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti warned that the second leg would be even tougher.
Also Check: Real Madrid Receive Major Injury Boost Ahead of Champions League Clash with Manchester City
“If today was difficult, imagine how hard it will be on Wednesday,” Ancelotti said.
“But we have a small advantage. It will be tough at the Metropolitano, but not much will change.”
Simeone admitted that a 2-1 defeat was “not a good result,” but praised his players for their fighting spirit. He emphasized the need for a “huge effort” from the team and home supporters in the return leg.
Real Madrid and Vinícius Júnior Face Multi-Competition Battle
Atlético defender José María Giménez acknowledged Vinícius Júnior’s influence, stating that the Brazilian forward was “totally superior.”
Real Madrid and Vinícius are chasing silverware on multiple fronts. They currently lead the LaLiga title race by two points while also competing for the Champions League and Copa del Rey.
Despite a relatively quiet night in front of goal, both Mbappé and Vinícius received backing from Ancelotti.
“Playing against Atlético’s defense isn’t easy,” Ancelotti explained. “[Mbappé and Vinícius] didn’t get many chances.
They had one at the end but couldn’t finish. They worked hard and fought. They didn’t show their best today, but they have another chance in the second leg.”
Brahim Díaz’s Goal Celebration Adds Drama
Rodrygo admitted that Atlético’s game plan surprised Real Madrid.
“Usually, we dominate against them,” he told Movistar. “But today, they had more possession at times. We had to defend, but Brahim’s goal helped us regain control in the second half.”
Díaz, who scored the winner, celebrated by jumping into the Bernabéu crowd earning him a yellow card before directing an emotional outburst towards Simeone. This came after the Atlético coach had predicted that Luka Modric would start instead of Díaz.
With the second leg approaching, both teams will look to refine their strategies. Real Madrid will aim to capitalize on their narrow advantage, while Atlético Madrid hopes to turn the tie around on home soil.
