Simeone says Atletico still have plenty to play for despite loss
Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone believes there is still plenty to play for in next week's second leg despite his side's 2-1 defeat at Barcelona in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final.
Simeone's side took the lead through a Fernando Torres strike but the Spanish striker went from hero to zero after receiving his marching orders for two bookable offenses before half-time.
After the break, Barcelona came back into the contest thanks to Luis Suarez's 63rd minute strike and the comeback was complete when the Uruguay international fired his second of the night.
However, Simeone was delighted with his side's showing at the Nou Camp.
"Beyond the inequality there was in the match, we leave with a situation that allows us to have hope," Simeone said. "I am very happy with my team.
"Once again, we started winning, we were doing very well."
The game turned on Torres red card but Simeone refused to blame his striker for his side's defeat.
However, Atletico were incensed as goalscorer Suarez twice escaped punishment for a kick out at Juanfran and an off-the-ball incident with Filipe Luis.
"There were more than two incidents involving Suarez," Simeone added. "I can't say what I think, but I am not angry with Fernando for sure."
