Atletico Madrid deserved more, says Simeone

Dec 6, 2012 11:30:00 PM

The Rojiblancos boss was left disappointed by his side's defeat in the Czech Republic that saw them surrender first place and finish runners-up in their Europa League group

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone admitted that his team were not at their best against Viktoria Plzen, but, insisted that a draw would have been a fairer reflection of the game.

Los Colchoneros headed into their final encounter in Group B of the Europa League with a two-point advantage over the second-placed Czechs, meaning a draw would have sufficed to ensure the Madrid outfit of top spot.

However, a first-half goal from Vaclav Prochazka was enough to give Plzen all three points and has seen them finish in first place ahead of Atleti.

"We would wanted to finish first in the group. In the second half, we played like we wanted to top the group. Maybe, we merited a draw," Simeone told reporters in the post-match press conference.

"But, we did not make the most of our chances. We played a good game in the second half and my players did what I asked them to. In the end, however, we could not equal the tie even though I believe that it would have been fair."

After both finished first in their respective groups, Liverpool and Fenerbahce are now possible opponents for Atletico Madrid but Simeone refused to be drawn into speculation as to who he would want his side to be paired against.

He added: "When we find out about our opponents, then we will evaluate the situation."

Sign up with William Hill for a free bet up to £25
Sign up with bet365 for a free bet up to £200
Sign up to Paddy Power for £250 in free bets
Sign up today with Coral and get a £50 FREE bet - no strings attached!
Sign up today with BetVictor and get a £25 FREE BET!