Diego Simeone has challenged his Atletico Madrid side to prove their character against Real Betis on Saturday after their immense loss to Bayern Munich.
Atletico had a nightmare Group A opener in the Champions League last Tuesday away to Bayern Munich. The reigning champions brushed them aside 4-0 at the Allianz Arena.
Four days onwards, however, Simeone’s side are back in action against Real Betis in La Liga. They’ll need a response for this one, knowing three points could see them surge up the standings by the end of the weekend. Especially if Barcelona and Real Madrid drop points in Saturday’s Clasico.
But while Atletico are unbeaten in their last 20 league games, they haven’t scored in three of their last four games in all competitions.
“I absolutely trust the team, despite the painful, heavy defeat in Munich,” said head coach Simeone in a pre-match conference.
“I got a lot of positive things from the game and I totally believe in the team we have. I see them play with great enthusiasm, with great intensity and eager to be the protagonists.
“Tomorrow we will see it [the team’s personality]. I absolutely believe in my players, I know their quality.
“We face a team that with Manuel [Pellegrini] have improved a lot, especially their enthusiasm, defense, and the confidence you can see in Betis beyond the results.
“They won twice away from home, so they are a dangerous team. Maybe, if I am not wrong, they are one of the teams who have created the most chances in La Liga.”
As noted by Simeone, Betis have been particularly strong in the final third in La Liga this season. WhoScored stats show Manuel Pellegrini’s side boast a league-best of 76 shots on target. They’re also tied with Real Madrid for most chances created on 57.
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