'We're bored of El Clasico' - Simeone

Feb 27, 2013 8:05:00 PM

The Atletico Madrid coach believes his side's clash with Sevilla will be more interesting and attractive than the other Copa del Rey semi-final

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone believes his side's Copa del Rey semi-final with Sevilla will be more entertaining than Tuesday's Clasico.

Barcelona and Real Madrid have played out a number of ties in recent years, but the Argentine feels that clashes between the two rivals have become boring.

"I think our game against Sevilla will be a more attractive game than Madrid-Barca. We're bored of El Clasico,” Simeone told reporters.

The former Lazio man went on to emphasise the importance of the midfield battle with the Andalusians as his side look to reach the final.

"The game will be decided in the centre of the park," he continued.

“The team who dominates there will have the better chance. We might change the odd thing. The tie could go either way. The team who wins the midfield battle will be able to dictate the play more.

“We have to think about playing before we can think about winning. You can't get ahead of yourself – that's the wrong way to approach it."

The Atleti boss also dismissed fears that Cata Diaz will be a risk in the heart of the defence, citing his big-game experience in Argentina.

“He's played for Boca [Juniors]. Do you know what that means? A packed stadium, several finals and important matches,” he added.

“We're relaxed about it. We want to win the cup and that's what we'll set out to do. When the referee gets the game under way, everything that is said in the build-up to the match goes out of the window."