Diego Simeone believes ‘sometimes pride is more important than points’ as his Atletico side travel to Bayern Munich in Tuesday’s Champions League action.
Los Rojiblancos have already won the group having won all five group games to date but could become only the sixth team to win six group stage games while also inflict Bayern’s first home defeat in 932 days.
"I'm as excited as I am for every game as Atletico boss, sometimes pride is more important than points and this is one of those occasions," Simeone revealed at his press conference ahead of the tie.
"I always hope for the best and it's nice to be here as we're always aiming for first place. Everything was cemented by the first games in Holland and in Russia, from there everyone thought it'd be easy and we've done what we've had to do.
“Bayern are a complex team with very good players, now they pose a different threat to when Guardiola was in charge but the final score is what counts and during the season is the time to walk the walk."
The Argentine was also asked about the current state of Bayern Munich, who trail current Bundesliga leaders RB Leipzig by three points at the top.
"I don't think they've had a crisis," he continued.
"During the season, difficult situations always occur and sometimes you win, sometimes you lose as a coach.
"There's no doubt Ancelotti will fight for what he wants to do at Bayern, and that's to win the Champions League."
