Atletico comeback win ‘no coincidence’, says Simeone

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone praised his side’s intelligence in Tuesday’s 2-1 come-from-behind home win over Bayer Leverkusen, saying the victory was “no coincidence”.

Atletico were forced to play with 10 men when Pablo Barrios was red-carded 23 minutes in, with Leverkusen taking the lead through Piero Hincapie in first-half stoppage time.

Simeone’s men were on the ropes, but emerged a different beast in the second-half, creating several chances on the counter despite the one-man disadvantage.

Julian Alvarez equalised seven minutes after half-time.

After Leverkusen were themselves reduced to 10 men when Hincapie picked up a second yellow, Alvarez added another in the 90th minute.

“It’s no coincidence that what happened in the second half happened. We played intelligently, we didn’t let the game get away us.”

Simeone said Leverkusen “played very well but didn’t have any scoring opportunities — we were able to convert the ones we had.”

The coach saved special praise for Alvarez, who arrived from Manchester City in the summer.

“When we first thought about bringing Julian in, we were excited. He has an impressive record.

“Over the years he will have a special place in the club.”

The 54-year-old said Atletico had their sights set on a return to the Champions League final.

“Every team in this competition wants to reach the final.”

Atletico have made the showpiece event twice under Simeone but have lost to city rivals Real Madrid on both occasions.

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