Simeone: We beat a great Malaga team

Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone said the last-gasp 2-1 victory over Malaga had been achieved against a great team.

An own goal from central defender Weligton ensured the Costa del Sol outfit suffered their first defeat of the season and lifted Los Rojiblancos level on points at the top with Barcelona.

Simeone felt it was a victory his team deserved and said he is excited to be sharing top spot with Tito Vilanova’s men.

“We looked to win for the whole 90 minutes,” the Argentine told a Press conference. “It was a game played with intensity and we had to play like that, which is why we won.

“Malaga are a great team that are in the Champions League and doing very well. We are very happy because we have beaten a great team with a great Coach and great players.

“I’m also very happy to share first place with Barcelona as it is a long time since I’ve looked at that privileged position, but our philosophy of taking one game at a time will remain the same.”

He also explained why he had given a first La Liga start of the season to Emre, who he says is important to the squad.

“I spoke to Emre about the last few games after he asked me why he wasn’t getting any playing time, because we must bear in mind that he is the captain of the Turkish national team.

“This is what makes Atletico stronger this year, that everyone in the squad is important and they will all get the chance to show it. Tonight it was Emre’s turn.”

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