Diego Simeone thought his team played the ultimate game of two halves as they drew 0-0 with Rayo Vallecano.
The champion’s title defence didn’t get off to the best of starts as they could only claim a point at the home of their city rivals.
But with the Coach sitting in the stands after collecting an eight-game ban, he was left with mixed feelings after the game.
“The game lasts 90 minutes. The first half, the team played very well. They had three clear chances of scoring, it was dynamic, they played out wide but couldn’t score,” he told a Press conference.
In the second half, Rayo was better – we didn’t play against a wall, we played against a team.
“Being so high up you couldn't see it as well. I don't think that having me on the field would’ve improved anything.
“We came from playing on Tuesday and Friday and the effort from these days could be felt in the second half.”
The Argentine then commented on the League authorities’ decision to ban him, and the new striking line-up for Atleti.
“I have great respect for the people who make decisions.
“The three forwards had already played some matches together with Griezmann on the left.
“Griezmann played well to a changed leg between sidelines, Jiménez played well and partnered well. I believe that we surprised in the first half.”
