Champions League: Atlético Madrid wants to finish the job against Barça.

Atlético Madrid only has one step left to cross. Victorious in the first leg, the Madrid club arrives in a favorable position ahead of the Champions League quarter-final second leg against Barça. A valuable advantage that the Colchoneros intend to defend with rigor. Used to high-intensity clashes, Diego Simeone’s men know, however, that nothing is yet decided against an opponent of this calibre.

Already this season, Atlético had the upper hand over the Blaugranas in a Copa del Rey two-legged tie, proof of its ability to shake up the Catalan giant. But the European context demands heightened vigilance. In front of the media, Diego Simeone nonetheless sought to temper any overconfidence. “We are convinced of what we need and of what we will accomplish there. Our objective is to qualify, and we will play this match to achieve it.”, he said, in remarks relayed by Footmercato.

Aware of Barça’s qualities, the Argentine coach insists on staying faithful to the game plan. “We know they are a very good opponent, but we also know our objective: to qualify. All we imagine could be nothing but wishful thinking. Then the match will begin, and everything can change.”, he warned. Simeone particularly expects tactical adjustments from the Barça side, notably a higher defensive line, observed recently. A parameter that his team says it is ready to exploit.