Diego Simeone said Atlético Madrid must reach “120%” to compete on equal terms with teams such as Bayern Munich and Arsenal, after his side lost 2-0 to Bayern at the Metropolitano. “At 100%, it isn’t enough,” the Atlético coach said.
Bayern had 19 shots to Atlético’s seven and created the clearer chances. The visitors threatened repeatedly before the break, while Atlético goalkeeper Jan Oblak faced a series of attempts, including a one-on-one chance for Harry Kane. Bayern were unable to score in the first half, and the teams went into the interval level.
Simeone said Atlético had competed well until around the 55th or 60th minute, but regretted that his side did not maintain its approach after conceding. He described the match as controlled from his team’s perspective before the opening goal, adding that Alexander Sørloth’s presence had helped Atlético contest balls and spend more time in the opposition half.
Bayern’s opener came after Robin Le Normand tried to shield the ball in his area and Lennart Karl took it from him before scoring. Simeone called the mistake part of football, saying goals come after errors and teams benefit when they take advantage of them. Karl, 18, had recently drawn attention for saying he would like to play for Real Madrid one day.
Bayern’s interim coach, Aaron Danks, said he was pleased with the team’s collective performance in attack and defence, and praised Karl for finishing the opening goal. Atlético’s defeat was one of the most emphatic Champions League losses the club has suffered at the Metropolitano since the stadium opened in 2017.
Sources: El País Deportes.