Diego Simeone has said the “best thing” for Atlético Madrid in their UEFA Champions League last-16 clash against Tottenham Hotspur is simply “to score” more goals.
Atleti took a commanding 5-2 advantage from the first leg at the Metropolitano, punishing several defensive mistakes by Spurs, including errors from their goalkeeper.
It marked the first time the Spanish side had scored five goals in a Champions League knockout match, although Igor Tudor’s Tottenham kept their slim qualification hopes alive.
Despite a relatively strong early record away to English clubs, Atleti have struggled in recent visits, losing five of their last six matches in England. Still, all their away victories over Premier League teams in the competition have come in knockout rounds, including wins against Chelsea FC, Liverpool FC, and Manchester United.
Simeone, however, warned against complacency, stressing the need for his side to keep attacking in the return leg in London.
“We always approach knockout ties with the full 180 minutes in mind, and then we assess what happens,” he said.
“We must play the match where it is and aim to win. The best thing would be to score to make things more difficult for the opponent.”
Atlético have been prolific in front of goal this season, netting 29 times in 11 Champions League matches — their highest tally in a single campaign and the most by any team in the competition this season.
They also scored seven goals in their play-off tie against Club Brugge, and hit five against Eintracht Frankfurt earlier in the tournament.
Traditionally known for their defensive solidity under Simeone, the Argentine coach insisted their attacking output this season does not redefine their identity.
“I wouldn’t judge whether a team is attacking or defensive based solely on goals scored,” he added.
“A team aims to be balanced, and that largely depends on its confidence.”
