Diego Simeone believes that fighting spirit and belief will help him achieve outstanding results in the Champions League.

Atletico Madrid, nicknamed the "Rojiblancos," will host Premier League giants Arsenal in the first leg of the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League semi-final. Manager Diego Simeone stated that the team's infectious fighting spirit and belief will be a huge asset.

In the Champions League quarter-finals, Atletico Madrid successfully eliminated their formidable rivals Barcelona with a 3-2 aggregate score. Earlier in La Liga, the "Rojiblancos" (Atletico Madrid's nickname) secured a 3-2 home victory against Athletic Bilbao, ending their losing streak, thanks to goals from Griezmann and Thierry. They then proceeded to face Arsenal with a win.

At a press conference, Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone said, "I feel no pressure, only a sense of responsibility and a special sense of anticipation. Ultimately, this is a football match, and the outcome is determined by the players on the field. We must be prepared and hope to play the game as we envision, bringing it into a rhythm that can cause Arsenal trouble."

It's worth noting that Atletico Madrid lost 3-4 to Real Sociedad in the previous Copa del Rey final after a penalty shootout, missing out on the title. However, they still have the Champions League title to contend for this season, though the difficulty is on a completely different level.

Diego Simeone pointed out, "We are all ordinary people, and everyone has different opinions, but a tournament doesn't owe anyone anything. Everything must be earned and achieved by ourselves. We must work hard, take the initiative, and also hope that luck is on our side."

"Whether it's the Copa del Rey or the Champions League, everything we do in the knockout stages, including the intensity of the game, our playing style, and our attacking initiative, is how we respond."

In addition, Diego Simeone said, "It's good to have dreams, but reality is what happens on the field. Reality is what we do and God's will, and that's our attitude. We've reached the semi-finals again, the fourth time in 14 years, which is amazing and incredible."

"This belief, passion, and the ability to inspire others will greatly benefit us. We will face a tough match, but we are full of hope."

Image source: Internet