Simeone praises Atlético’s resilience after draw with Stuttgart

Atlético and VfB Stuttgart drew 1-1 in the Champions League. After a difficult first half, Diego Simeone’s side levelled the match and then had to protect the point after Morten Hjulmand was sent off. The coach praised his players’ resilience while acknowledging that Atlético had struggled to handle Stuttgart’s intensity early on.

Simeone felt the goal helped his players settle into the contest. Atlético showed greater intent as the first half drew to a close. Álvarez equalised with a first-time finish from Lookman’s cutback. Simeone welcomed the goal, which ended a lengthy wait for Álvarez to score in Atlético colours this season.

After Hjulmand’s dismissal in the 64th minute, Atlético reorganised and defended the result through the closing stages. The team also felt a possible penalty should have been reviewed after a challenge on Dávid Hancko. Simeone acknowledged his side’s frustration over the decision, while accepting that the result would not change.

The coach also addressed the tackle that led to Hjulmand’s red card. He warned his players about the risks of sliding into challenges, saying the image left by such an intervention can carry significant consequences. Hjulmand will be unavailable for his team’s next Champions League match.

“We spoke at half-time and knew the goal would come. The 1-1 arrived, then the sending-off came and we had to adapt to the match again,” Simeone said. He also highlighted Álvarez’s work, particularly on the left, and said he was happy to have him available.

Stuttgart are 13th in the Bundesliga with 6 points after 6 matches. Their league record is 2 wins, 0 draws and 4 defeats, with 8 goals scored and 10 conceded. In their last 5 Bundesliga matches, they have recorded 2 wins and 3 defeats.