MADRID — Atletico Madrid experienced a sudden downturn, turning one of its most promising campaigns into an unforeseen setback in just a few days. The team was performing robustly with confidence, seemingly on track for a strong performance in the Champions League and maintaining a formidable presence at the summit of the Spanish league, aiming for success in both.
However, two consecutive setbacks at home changed the narrative dramatically. Initially, there was a narrow exit against Real Madrid in the Champions League round of 16 due to a penalty shootout defeat. Just four days later, Atletico suffered a 4-2 reverse against Barcelona in La Liga after squandering a 2-0 lead midway through the second half.
Head coach Diego Simeone was left grappling with these unexpected struggles, searching for ways to reignite his team’s fortunes for the remainder of the season. “What can we do?” Simeone pondered, emphasizing the need for perseverance. “We will return to training with our usual spirit and acceptance of our situation.”
Despite the setback in the league, Simeone hadn’t abandoned hope for the title. The loss to Barcelona left Atletico four points adrift of Real Madrid, who had recorded a 2-1 victory over Villarreal, and further trailing Barcelona, who had a game in hand. This gap could potentially extend to seven points.
“Barcelona holds a significant advantage,” Simeone admitted. “We need to be realistic, but we will continue to prepare each match at a time until the conclusion.”
Atletico seemed to be in control during their clash with Barcelona at Metropolitano Stadium. But Barcelona managed to draw level with two goals six minutes apart in the 72nd and 78th minutes, sealing the victory with two more in stoppage time.
Facing Real Madrid in the Champions League, Atletico appeared ready to end their prolonged jinx against their city neighbors but fell short in a penalty shootout despite patches of superior play. A moment of misfortune occurred during the shootout when Atletico’s Julián Álvarez inadvertently touched the ball twice with his penalty, contributing to their exit.
While Simeone acknowledged the role of luck, he stressed the importance of assertive gameplay at crucial phases, particularly when in dominant positions that were squandered.
Reflecting on the Barcelona match, Simeone admitted to a tactical shortcoming by delaying the addition of defender José María Giménez to the field. “When we took a 2-0 lead, I should have introduced Giménez earlier,” Simeone confessed. “But they resumed and scored, leading quickly to the second.”
Standing firmly by his squad, Simeone vouched for their unwavering commitment and acknowledged the supporters’ appreciation. Atletico’s schedule continues with a visit to Espanyol, followed by hosting Barcelona again for the Copa del Rey semifinals. Atletico hasn’t captured this particular trophy since 2013, shortly after Simeone’s appointment as manager.
In their previous clash, Atletico and Barcelona shared a thrilling 4-4 draw, with Atletico staging a comeback from 4-2 down. The other semifinal features Madrid and Real Sociedad, with Madrid holding a slight edge after a 1-0 away victory in the first leg.
