Diego Simeone applauded the displays of Julián Álvarez and USMNT midfielder Johnny Cardoso after Atlético Madrid secured a 2‑0 victory over Manchester United in the Champions League round of 16. The win, which came at the Metropolitano on Tuesday, was a showcase of Atlético’s attacking intent and defensive solidity, with Simeone calling the result a “worthy” triumph.
Álvarez, who started the match and was substituted after 71 minutes, was praised for his effort and the chance he had to score. Simeone noted that the Argentine is “getting closer to the player we want to see,” a comment that also reflected the mixed reaction from the home crowd. Some supporters, still wary of Álvarez’s rumored exit in the summer, gave him a mixture of cheers and whistles, but the coach emphasized that fans appreciate performance over politics. “What the fans do is related to what the players give,” Simeone said in the post‑match press conference, adding that the striker “has the chance to score today” and that the club “needs him.”
Cardoso, who completed a full 90 minutes in the midfield, impressed with his work rate and defensive contributions. He had a goal disallowed in the first half after a handball by Marcos Llorente. Simeone highlighted Cardoso’s current form, noting that the Brazilian has begun to play at a high level after a injury‑hit debut season. “He’s in a very good moment,” the manager said, recalling the player’s performance against Real Sociedad on September 13, when Cardoso came on and immediately impacted the game. “We need that player, that’s the player the club went to sign.”
Simeone also commented on Atlético’s tactical approach against United, who are struggling this season under Michael Carrick. The Spanish club opened the scoring within the first minute through Pablo Barrios, a quick move that set the tone for the match. “We were lucky to start the game on the front foot, with the first goal,” Simeone said. He praised his side’s ability to counter United’s high press and exploit the wings, noting that the team had more chances and a better overall performance. “We had chances to go further ahead on the scoreboard,” he added, “but we had a better game, we had more chances. The team was always looking for more.”
With the 2‑0 win, Atlético Madrid advances to the next round of the Champions League, while Manchester United will face a difficult task in their next fixtures. The victory also boosts the confidence of the squad as they prepare for upcoming domestic and European challenges.