Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone expressed extreme delight with his side’s display as they came from two goals down to grab a late equaliser in the 4-4 draw at Barcelona in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final on Tuesday.
Simeone showed passion on the touchline after forward Alexander Sorloth netted the leveller in a counter attack in the third minute of added time.
“What stands out most for me is this team’s spirit. There is an incredible gladiatorial spirit by the players that is inspiring,” the Argentine said in a press conference.
“Barcelona have extraordinary tools, but we have our own and we showed out there what we are made of.
“The celebration on the fourth goal was just an explosion of joy. The 4-2 scoreline seemed difficult to turn around and the courage of the players was incredible, to equalise and leave the tie level for the return leg on April 2.
“The team showed great character and worked a very strong match, always playing with the same mentality and with an enormous spirit of competition.”
Simeone also admitted he was disappointed his defence conceded two goals from corners, mistakes that he labelled unacceptable.
“It’s impossible for a team like Barcelona to finish a match without scoring a goal but what bothers me is when they score two goals from set pieces. It’s a matter of individual and collective efforts that we need to correct,” Simeone continued.
“However, the game was not an easy one to play, but the boys showed a competitive spirit that I am passionate about.”
