Atletico Madrid boss Simeone expecting tough Zaragoza clash

Jan 12, 2013 3:19:00 PM

The Rojiblancos have won all their games at home this season in La Liga but the Argentine coach has warned his side not to be complacent when they face the Blanquillos

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone has urged his side not to lose focus against Zaragoza as he expects a tough clash against Manolo Jimenez's men.

The Rojiblancos sit second in La Liga, 11 points behind pace-setters Barcelona, while the visitors are hovering mid-table in the Primera Division.

But the Argentine trainer has warned his team not to expect the encounter to be a formality, and to be wary of their opponents if they want to keep their winning league record at home intact.

“It will be a tough match,” he told reporters. “They are strong opponents and do well away from home.

“We have to be vigilant against them because it is an important game.

“You have to congratulate [Manolo] Jimenez for what he has done at Real Zaragoza. He is a brave guy and has done well with a good group.”

Zaragoza have won their last three away games in all competitions against Rayo Vallecano, Levante and Athletic Bilbao, respectively.

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