Atletico Madrid Ready for Copa del Rey Showdown Against Barcelona, Says Simeone

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone says his team must focus on one game at a time as they prepare to face Barcelona in the Copa del Rey semi-final.

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has emphasized the importance of a game-by-game mentality as his team prepares to face a demanding schedule, starting with the Copa del Rey semi-final first-leg against Barcelona on Tuesday. The Argentine manager, 54, wants his players to concentrate on the immediate task at hand, rather than getting distracted by the upcoming challenges. A tough five-week stretch lies ahead, featuring a two-legged Champions League clash against Real Madrid and another meeting with Barcelona in LaLiga, with Atletico currently trailing the two giants by just a point at the top of the table.

Simeone stressed the need for focus and composure in the face of a hectic schedule. “The key, the only way, is to look at each day match-by-match,” he told a press conference on Monday. The Atletico Madrid manager is eager to ensure that his team remains focused on the task at hand, starting with the Copa del Rey semi-final first-leg against Barcelona. “We are excited, we want to compete, looking forward to facing each game in the best way possible and to achieve that we are focused solely on tomorrow's game.”

Simeone also highlighted the significance of the Copa del Rey semi-final, while also emphasizing that it is a two-legged tie. “It's a very important match, but it doesn't end tomorrow, it's divided into two stages, one on their home court and one on ours,” he noted. The Atletico Madrid manager is already thinking about how to approach the second leg and how to capitalize on any opportunities that may arise. ”And we'll take the game where we think we can hurt them,” he added, demonstrating his tactical acumen and ability to adapt to different situations.

The return leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final is scheduled for April 2nd at the Metropolitano, but before that, Atletico Madrid will face Barcelona on Wednesday in a highly anticipated encounter. The two teams last met in late December, when Atletico staged a thrilling comeback to beat Hansi Flick's side 2-1 in a LaLiga match.

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone is expecting a tough battle against LaLiga's leaders and has warned his team to be prepared to “suffer” in order to achieve a positive result. “When you face big teams you know you have to be prepared to resist, to endure suffering,” Simeone said. He believes that both teams will have their moments of dominance, and it will be crucial to capitalize on those opportunities. “There will be good moments for each side and you need to take advantage of those.”

❝We are excited, enthusiastic and eager to compete❞.

— Simeone 🎙 pic.twitter.com/f3u3zD30lA

— Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) February 24, 2025

Simeone has a clear plan in mind for the match and will work with his players to execute it effectively. He expressed his admiration for Barcelona's playing style, highlighting their attacking strength. “We have a concrete idea and we'll work on it with the boys beforehand,” Simeone said. “We're up against an opponent that I really like the way they play. They have great attacking strength and we'll be looking to hurt them where we think we can.”