Simeone Warns of Tough Match as Atletico Madrid Face Leganes in LaLiga

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone is bracing for a tough match as LaLiga leaders Atletico Madrid face Leganes on Saturday, warning that their opponents are strong at home.

Atletico Madrid's impressive eight-match winning streak in LaLiga has propelled them to the top of the standings, reigniting hopes of a first league title in four years. However, coach Diego Simeone is cautious about getting ahead of himself, emphasizing the importance of focusing on one match at a time.

Diego Simeone's prudent approach is reflected in his comments, where he stated: “More than anyone else we live match by match. We have to enjoy this situation, knowing our victories and based on what happens, work in accordance with what is needed.” Atletico currently sits atop the LaLiga table with 44 points from 19 matches, holding a slender one-point lead over local rivals Real Madrid.

Looking ahead to their next challenge, Atletico will visit Leganes on Saturday. Leganes, who are newly promoted and currently 16th in the table, have been on a positive run, remaining unbeaten in their last three matches in all competitions. The team, led by Borja Jimenez, has also shown its capabilities with a 3-2 win over Almeria in the Copa del Rey, which secured their spot in the quarter-finals. Furthermore, Leganes had previously stunned Barcelona with a 1-0 victory at the Catalan giants' home stadium last month.

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone is anticipating a challenging match against Leganes on Saturday. He acknowledged the strength of their opponents, particularly at home, saying: “Tomorrow we play against an opponent who is strong at home... it will be a tough match. I can't imagine anything else.”

Simeone's caution is rooted in Atletico's previous encounter with Leganes in October. Although Atletico ultimately secured a 3-1 win, Leganes had put up a strong fight, and it took two late goals for Simeone's side to claim victory. Reflecting on that match, Simeone said: “I see a dangerous team, at home it took us a lot of effort to take the game forward.”

❝El Leganés en su casa se hace fuerte y me imagino un partido duro y difícil❞.

— Diego Pablo @Simeone 🎙 pic.twitter.com/5VTayHE5b1

— Atlético de Madrid (@Atleti) January 17, 2025

Simeone also expressed admiration for Leganes' coach and the team's recent performances, including their important win in the cup. He noted: “The coach works very well and that's something to be valued... they had an important win in the cup and victories always generate encouragement.”