"After Yang Yang scored that direct free kick, the tide had already turned against us."
At the post-match press conference, Atletico Madrid head coach Simeone was disappointed with the result. The Mattress Makers had suffered a crushing 3–0 defeat at home—a complete loss—and he was deeply frustrated.
More importantly, after this disastrous defeat, Atletico's league ranking quickly dropped to sixth place.
Before facing Real Madrid, Atletico had conceded only eight goals in eleven league matches, making them one of the best defensive teams in La Liga. But after facing Real Madrid, they conceded three goals in a single match. Even so, Simeone still believed that his team had performed very well.
"Professional football is about wins and losses, but as a head coach, I can't evaluate my players in such a simplistic and blunt way. I believe they all gave their best. It's just that we encountered many problems in the match that we were unable to overcome."
"For example, many of our players traveled long distances to play two matches for the National Team, then rushed straight back. The physical and mental toll was enormous. We also couldn't rotate four or five players like our opponents and still play at Europe's top level."
Simeone admitted that Atletico's squad depth was inferior to Real Madrid's.
"I believe the key reason Real Madrid have achieved such consistent results across multiple fronts in recent years is that they possess Europe's strongest squad depth. Not only in midfield and attack—even defenders like Varane, Vermaelen, Azpilicueta, and Danilo are players other clubs are eager to sign."
Simeone believed that Real Madrid's victory had indeed showcased their football, while Atletico still needed to keep improving.
"We need to continue making up for the team's shortcomings."
At the same time, Simeone said that if responsibility had