Diego Pablo Simeone faces one of those matches tonight that generates excitement and anticipation in all sectors that make up Atlético de Madrid. The Argentine coach has been able to fight for all competitions again, despite a difficult start in which many doubts had arisen. The defeats against Lille and Real Betis made many voices start proclaiming that the rojiblancos had already thrown away the season.
Now, the colchonero team faces the first leg of the Champions League round of 16 against Real Madrid with the desire to achieve a positive result. They want to leave behind the precedents against their eternal rival in the continental tournament and take advantage of the good moment they have been experiencing for several months. Moreover, Cholo left a clear message in the pre-match when he spoke to the microphones of Movistar Plus at the Metropolitano.
Simeone Looks to the Champions League
Obviously, it is the most important club tournament in the world and one of the most difficult to win due to the high demands. Atlético de Madrid has been able to reach two Champions League finals with Simeone on the bench, coming very close to lifting the title in both cases. After last year's disappointment, falling in the quarter-finals against Borussia Dortmund, the rojiblancos have had an almost perfect first phase.
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In fact, we are seeing Simeone more content and excited, leaving statements yesterday that have caused many reactions among fans. "We need and want to reach the Champions League final," the Argentine coach stated after appearing before the media in the auditorium. It is not the first time he has said it, as in previous press conferences he had already stated that the main goal is to be in Munich in May.
A Heart-Stopping Schedule
The coming weeks will be thrilling for Atlético de Madrid, finishing the Champions League round and receiving Barça's visit in LaLiga. The goal is to reach April while staying in all the fights and securing the pass to the Copa del Rey final after the draw with Montjuïc. The first final of the season will be played in Seville on April 26, the date on which the rojiblanco team will celebrate its anniversary.
The good news is that all players feel important and are getting minutes in the matches, something essential to be able to provide rest. Tonight's will be one of the most difficult commitments of the entire season, but it is faced at the perfect moment due to the level of both teams. Real Madrid is going through a severe crisis of play and results, while the colchoneros remain one of the best in all of Europe.