Diego Simeone explained Atletico Madrid’s “tactically intelligent game” to beat Juventus 1-0 in the Champions League.
“We faced a great team,” Cholo told Sport Mediaset.
Diego Simeone explained Atletico Madrid’s “tactically intelligent game” to beat Juventus 1-0 in the Champions League.
“We faced a great team,” Cholo told Sport Mediaset.
“I think we played a tactically intelligent game, as Juve have strong strikers who are reference points and champions in midfield with a high three-man defence. It’s not easy to play against them.
“We knew that we could hurt them with crosses and pull-backs, as it is difficult for them to close down the wings.”
Juventus had 62 per cent possession, which in the opening half-hour was close to 70 per cent, but ex-Catania Coach Simeone assured it was all part of the plan.
“We allowed them to press us in midfield and in the first half Juventus played better, but we were more aggressive after the break and could slowly see what was going to happen.
“I think the game opened up, when we introduced Griezmann and moved to a 4-4-2 we knew it would open up the game. We happened to get the goal first.”
Malmo beat Olympiacos 2-0 tonight, meaning all four teams in the group have three points. Juve are on top thanks to goal difference.
“It is going to be a tough group, as it is not easy to win away from home against any of these sides. Now we have to focus on the Liga, where we feel like we’re playing in about 20 minutes!”