Madrid, Spain – Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone addressed the media following a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Real Madrid in Sunday’s Madrid derby at the Santiago Bernabéu. While a contentious match with potential penalty claims at both ends, Simeone largely dismissed the idea that the result hinged on officiating decisions, instead focusing on his team’s missed opportunities.
“I don’t believe the issue of not winning is down to that,” Simeone stated, referring to the debated calls. “We had the opportunity to take advantage of the good chances we created and weren’t able to take that step forward to win a game we at least deserved a little more from.”
The match saw Ademola Lookman, a recent addition to the Atlético squad, create his first start in the Madrid derby and capatilize on a well-worked team move to give Atlético the lead in the 34th minute. The goal, a composed finish past Andriy Lunin, sparked celebrations amongst the Colchoneros faithful.
Simeone was particularly effusive in his praise of Lookman’s performance and continued development. “He’s growing, working very well, giving us different things in attack, and we need him that way,” Simeone explained. “Helping him grow in the defensive part so he can help us, because he has it. With a huge heart and a willingness to learn and try to improve, he’s very good, and hopefully he continues to give us key things like he did today.”
The manager acknowledged that while the team showed promise, they lacked the clinical edge to secure all three points. “We needed to control the game more, create more dangerous opportunities, and we weren’t able to put that into practice,” he said. “We made mistakes, didn’t manage things well, and we have important rivals who play well and will hurt you at the slightest opportunity.”
Questions were too raised regarding differing interpretations of potential penalty decisions – one for Atlético’s Saúl Ñíguez (Llorente) and another against Real Madrid’s Hancko. Although, Simeone remained steadfast in his refusal to engage in speculation about the refereeing. “I’m far away from those plays, I didn’t even observe them on television,” he stated firmly. “I don’t get involved in that situation because I don’t think it interfered with the match.”
Simeone also addressed comments from the opposing manager, Cardoso, regarding inconsistent officiating. He maintained his position, stating, “I don’t get into that situation because I don’t think it interfered with the match. We could have done more, controlled the game differently after the 1-0, not made mistakes, managed better.”
The draw leaves Atlético Madrid in a strong position in La Liga, but Simeone stressed the need for improvement and consistency. He emphasized the importance of learning from their mistakes and maintaining focus as they navigate a challenging schedule. The team’s ability to capitalize on opportunities and tighten up defensively will be crucial as they push for silverware this season.
Lookman’s performance, in particular, offers a significant boost to Atlético’s attacking options. The Nigerian international, who joined the club in 2022 after a spell at Atalanta, has quickly become a key player for Simeone, contributing both goals and assists. According to records, Lookman now has five goals in all competitions for Atlético Madrid, with four assists to his name, participating in nine goals in 13 appearances, with 10 of those as a starter.
Prior to joining Atlético Madrid, Lookman had faced Real Madrid twice while playing for Atalanta. In August 2024, Atalanta lost 2-0 in the Supercopa de Europa, and later in the Champions League group stage, they fell 3-2, a match in which Lookman did find the back of the net.
Atlético Madrid will now turn their attention to their upcoming fixtures, with a crucial Copa del Rey match on the horizon. The team will need to build on the positive aspects of their derby performance and address the areas where they fell short if they are to continue their pursuit of success on all fronts.
Simeone’s post-match comments underscore his pragmatic approach and unwavering focus on his team’s performance. While acknowledging the challenges posed by Real Madrid, he remains confident in Atlético’s ability to compete at the highest level.
Fans can listen to the full press conference, in podcast format, via AS Audio on platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Podium Podcast.
What’s Next: Atlético Madrid will face Barcelona in the Copa del Rey, with details to be announced. Stay tuned to Archysport for further updates and analysis.
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