Diego Simeone, the coach of Atlético Madrid, spoke after his team’s 2-1 victory over Inter Milan in the fifth round of the UEFA Champions League group stage, explaining the team’s strategy and the importance of the win.

Simeone spoke about the opponent's strength and Atlético's strategy: "We played against a very strong team; I believe they are one of the best teams in the Champions League."

He added: "We knew that, and in the first half, we focused on limiting their play based on speed and fitness. We ran when we regained the ball. We knew they would struggle with counterattacks, especially when we got behind their fullback."

He continued about the impact of the substitutions on executing the plan: "Knowing that we could rely on a different part of our plans in the second half allowed the substitutions to help us continue with the plan. We used everything we had. The game changed; they had the ball and were making quick transitions to hurt us. Fortunately, we achieved the result we needed in the Champions League."

Simeone highlighted the importance of José María Giménez's goal in stoppage time: "The goal in the 94th minute made the win more thrilling, but whether we won, drew, or lost, this was the plan."

Regarding the early controversial goal, he added: "I don't have comfort zones, nor do I want them. I enjoy being this way. We must work with faith, love, and quality. I have players who support me, and there were many on the bench eager to play, but they did what they were supposed to do."

Simeone concluded his speech by emphasizing that this victory was important to maintain the team's strong performance: "We have kept our perfect record at home in the Champions League this season, and succeeded in beating a tough team like Inter Milan."