Diego Simeone has said Atletico Madrid’s La Liga title win “will be one of the most important days in the history of the club”.
A 1-1 draw at the Nou Camp last night was enough to clinch Atletico’s first title since 1996 and end a 10 year duopoly of the title by Barcelona and Real Madrid.
Simeone’s side went into yesterday’s game knowing a draw would be enough to clinch the title. A goal from Alexis Sanchez in the first half put Barcelona ahead and when star players Diego Costa and Arda Turan went off injured Barcelona looked set to snatch glory away from Atletico at the last hurdle. A headed equaliser from Diego Godin early in the second half proved to be the crucial moment that saw Simeone’s side lift the La Liga title.
"I never thought for a moment the team would not do it," Simeone said to reporters after the game.
"They always have a response. The bigger the challenge is, the more determined they are to achieve it.
"To become champions against Barcelona is a great feeling."
"We were calm at half-time as the team had started well although the injuries to Diego and Arda were a problem.
"From there though we continued to be competitive and fight for each ball which is what I asked for. We looked comfortable,” Simeone added.
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