Simeone: "We’ll need to play with our heads"

Diego Pablo Simeone appeared at the official press conference prior to tomorrow’s match between Juventus and Atlético de Madrid. He started by highlighting that they will have to play with their heads in order to get the victory that will clinch them first place in Group A of the UEFA Champions League. "It is a very important match for the pecking order of the rival, because Juventus playing at home is a lot stronger than when they’re playing away and because they are in their environment with their fans. It will be nice match to see who will be first, second, or who will get knocked out. There are many variables in this fixture and we must play with our heads, trying to interpret in the best possible way what we are going to find. It won’t be the same as what we have found at other stadiums, surely, tomorrow will be a match different to the one in Madrid," he said.

In that line, Atlético’s coach said that he imagines the best possible Juventus due to everything that’s at stake for the Italians. "There isn't only one thing. Surely, we will be facing a team that has needs, to a great team. I expect the best Juventus, the one from their best times because they need to play a great match and not be knocked out from the Champions League. I expect a big night in which we need to respond well knowing the type of match we will find," he expressed.

In addition, Atlético’s coach admitted that he sees his players looking better everyday, although there is still room for improvement. "As you see, from what I gather from your articles, the team is improving and growing. And in reality, the team is better and there are always situations to keep growing like how Mandzukic became involved with the team and how the squad is looking to have longer possessions to have more time to reach the dangerous areas," he said.