Simeone hits back at Atleti critics

Diego Simeone has hit back at criticism of his defensive tactics in Atletico Madrid’s 1-1 draw with Barcelona on Saturday.

The Colchoneros started well at the Metropolitano, going ahead through Diego Costa’s first La Liga goal of the season but Ousmane Dembele came off the bench to prove his critics wrong and level the scores.

Atleti had rare chances to grab a winner but mainly chose to sit back and try and hold out.

Their negative approach prompted criticism but Simeone says he was pleased with how his troops handled Barca’s threats.

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“It was a tough match, very tight and very thought-provoking,” he said. ‘The team who made a mistake would’ve lost. We were very close to winning it, but they put together a nice piece of play at the end and drew.

“It was a tactical battle and they did well to pick up a point. Our styles were very similar because we were both playing for something similar. I liked everything my team did.”