Atletico Madrid's Argentine coach Diego Simeone spoke after his team's loss to Liverpool with a score of 3-2 in the first round of the Champions League group stage, in a match held at Anfield.

The coach said: "The team did not start well, and we were unlucky with the first goal that took us out of our plan. Then came the second goal, which was wonderful, but with our spirit of work and quality, we managed to come back into the match and create plays and prove that we are present."

He added: "We finished the first half with a goal from Llorente (2-1) that gave us hope. In the second half, our level rose even more, and despite suffering from some counterattacks because they excel at that, we stayed in the game. We equalized at 2-2, but then came a stunning goal from Van Dijk. The loss is painful, but the spirit we showed is what should distinguish Atletico."

Regarding the altercation that took place between him and some fans in the final moments, before he was sent off, he said: "It is always said that we must respect and maintain the atmosphere, but we were subjected to insults throughout the match from behind. I do not justify my reaction, but after 90 minutes of insults, it is not easy. The referee said he understood the situation. I hope Liverpool addresses these matters, and if they identify the person who did that, there should be consequences."

On the nature of what he experienced, he said: "There were insults throughout the match, along with some gestures as well. I know I have to stay calm and endure all that because I am in a position that requires it."

He concluded: "The spirit is what we needed today, we have many new players who are still adapting. We played in a difficult stadium, against a brave opponent, and after being 2-0 down, it was not expected that we would finish the match this way. But we fought until the end and pushed the match to its limits. And if we have to lose, let it be in this way."