Diego Simeone insists Atletico Madrid remain fired up for this weekend's capital derby, despite losing 2-1 to Benfica in the Champions League on Tuesday.
Los Colchoneros fell to their first European defeat at the Vicente Calderon in 23 matches, courtesy of goals from Nicolas Gaitan and Goncalo Guedes, but the Coach is adamant that his side created enough chances to suggest they would compete with Real Madrid on Sunday.
“We had chances to extend our lead,” he said after the match.
“Correa and Griezmann had two very good chances, and the team worked hard but unfortunately couldn't make [their hard work] count.
“We know better than anyone that [our failure to score more] was linked to our inability to take chances, not create them.
“[On the issue of flares], it didn't affect us. It's an issue to be resolved by the people who deal with them.
“Benfica were clinical and deserved the victory. We sought to find the equaliser, but the flares didn't affect us.
“[On morale ahead of the derby], it's normal that the team aren't happy.
“We'll train and prepare for an important game [on Sunday]. I don't think you need any motivation for a game like this.
“[On Astana and Galatasaray drawing], it's too early [to draw any conclusions].
“Any draw unsettles you, but we're only focused on Sunday. When we play in the Champions League next, we'll look at the situation again.
“Still, it seems too early to say that it's a magnificent opportunity for us to overcome them both.”
