Atletico Madrid defeated Barca with a 3-2 aggregate score across two quarter-final legs, extending their positive run against Barca in the Champions League and reaching the semifinals for the first time in nine years. At Metropolitano Stadium, Simeone's team faced intense pressure, conceding two goals in just 24 minutes, but ultimately advanced thanks to a decisive goal from Ademola Lookman.

Simeone emphasized that tactics were the key to the match's outcome. "Whenever we face Barca, we understand there is only one way: to attack them," the 55-year-old Argentine coach told Movistar Plus after the game. "If we don't attack, we will lose. Barca are very skilled with the ball. If we just sit back and defend, we will be pressured and unable to regain control."

Coach Diego Simeone instructs players during the Champions League quarter-final second leg between Barca and Atletico at Metropolitano Stadium, Madrid, Spain on 14/4. Photo: AFP

The match's progression largely reflected this assessment. Lamine Yamal opened the scoring in the fourth minute, before Ferran Torres doubled the lead in the 24th minute, leveling the aggregate score at 2-2. For the first half hour, the visiting team controlled the game, rapidly moving the ball and consistently exploiting spaces behind Atletico's defense.

Simeone admitted his team experienced significant difficulties during this period. "They were too fast. There were times I wondered how they could play so quickly," the coach added. "Against such an opponent, one mistake and they punish you immediately. We made errors and allowed Barca to play how they wanted."

However, the turning point arrived in the 31st minute when Atletico scored from a swift counter-attack down the right flank. Marcos Llorente delivered a cross for Lookman to tap in from close range, restoring the home side's 3-2 aggregate lead. This goal not only changed the dynamic of the match but also helped Atletico regain their composure.

"When we were 0-2 down, we had two choices: collapse or continue playing according to our plan. The players chose the second option," Simeone continued. "Lookman's goal was fantastic, bringing us back into the game just as we wanted."

In the second half, Atletico adopted a more balanced approach but maintained an attacking mindset when opportunities arose. Simeone praised the crucial role of substitutes like Nico, Baena, and Alexander Sorloth, who helped alleviate pressure from Barca. "The substitutions brought energy. The game became more balanced," he analyzed. "They started to slow down, while we maintained the necessary intensity."

Despite Atletico's efforts, Barca still created several dangerous chances. In the 55th minute, Ferran Torres put the ball into Atletico's net, but the goal was disallowed for offside. Late in the match, center-back Eric Garcia was sent off after VAR intervention, putting the visitors at a disadvantage in their attempts to find an equalizer.

Atletico Madrid players celebrate their victory. Photo: AS

Simeone declined to comment on the controversies from Barca regarding the refereeing. Instead, he expressed his pride in advancing. "It's unimaginable how wonderful it feels to reach the Champions League semifinals, to be among the four best teams in Europe," he said. "Over the past 14 years, we have changed a lot, but we have maintained our competitive spirit."

Simeone believes Atletico no longer relies solely on defense as before. "We attack better than we defend. That's what we need to do, regardless of the opponent," he declared. "We know our strengths and weaknesses, and we will continue to build on them."

Additionally, the 55-year-old coach highlighted the contributions of individual players. He lauded Lookman for his important goal and ability to create breakthroughs, and praised Marcos Llorente's resilience, goalkeeper Juan Musso's calmness, and Antoine Griezmann's leadership. "Lookman is progressing very quickly. He makes a difference in attack," Simeone said. "Griezmann is a football genius. What he does for the team is extraordinary."

This victory marks Atletico's fourth appearance in the Champions League semifinals under Simeone, following their runs in 2014, 2016, and 2017. The Argentine coach stated the team would approach the semi-finals with confidence but without complacency.

After eliminating Barca, Atletico awaits their next opponent, either Arsenal or Sporting Lisbon. However, Simeone emphasized that the immediate priority is player recovery before focusing on their next La Liga match. "We need to rest. But clearly, the whole team is very excited. We will continue to pursue what we have been chasing for many years," he concluded.

Hoang An (according to AS)