Diego Simeone, coach of Atletico Madrid, shared his thoughts after his team drew with Arsenal in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League semifinals.
Diego Simeone, coach of Atletico Madrid, said he remains optimistic about the team’s chances to reach the UEFA Champions League final this season, despite only managing a 1-1 home draw against Arsenal in the first leg of the semifinals last night.
Simeone said, "I don't believe in luck. The first half was very even. Perhaps they controlled possession better, but they created few chances. They have a very strong squad, and their substitutes even played better than some starters. But despite that, we played better than them in the second half."
"Our fans were amazing today. It was incredible. The atmosphere when we arrived at the stadium was very impressive. We rarely see such enthusiasm. Some of them may not be able to join us for the second leg, but their hearts and spirit will be with us on that day."
Regarding the chances in the second leg, he said, "I always look on the bright side. We have a tough task ahead in London, at Arsenal’s stadium. We will go there and give our all."