‘Atletico lost with courage’

Diego Simeone said that barring the opening 10 minutes or so, he was proud of Atletico Madrid’s performance against Valencia.

Valencia scored three goals in 12 minutes and eventually won the match 3-1, Mario Mandzukic netting for the champions.

Simeone was asked after the match if the game was over in that opening period, replying that in fact, the rest of the match had plenty for Atletico to look kindly upon.

“The match lasted 94 minutes. Valencia started strong, we made mistakes we don’t usually make and they took advantage,” he added, AS reports.

“After that, Atletico had a very good game. I’m happy with the team’s work. Those 10 minutes did a lot of damage but I’m proud of what my team did.

“There are times when there’s dignity in giving everything on the pitch.

“Atletico lost with courage. We worked and we kept running. Valencia aren’t in Europe and you see, they would have to have a really bad season not to be third or fourth.”

Atletico missed a penalty, Guilherme Siqueira having his spot kick saved by Diego Alves, with Simeone philosophical.

“Mandzukic is the taker but I asked Siqueira to take it instead,” he said, laughing.

“He’s missed two penalties in his career and both have been for Atletico.

“I think the referee did very well. He gave a penalty that was hard to see and none of his decisions were decisive.”

Tags Diego Simeone
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