Koke: Barcelona were more decisive than us, and we must keep working

Koke, the captain of Atlético, spoke about his team's loss to FC Barcelona by a score of 2-1 in LaLiga, confirming that effectiveness in front of goal was the decisive factor in the match, despite the chances that were available to his team during the first half.

Koke said: "Effectiveness is what decided the match. The team had a great first half, and we had chances to win the game, but we didn't take them. With a shot and a rebound at the end of the first half, they scored the equaliser."

He added: "This is football, it’s about being decisive, and they were more decisive than us. There is nothing to blame the team for; we must continue to work this way, as we still have a lot ahead of us in LaLiga. We need to keep going and not dwell on this loss."

Regarding conceding the equaliser just before half-time, he explained: "The team started the match well, despite FC Barcelona controlling the ball, but we had chances through Julián. Nothing was happening in the match, then came the second goal that harmed us."

Regarding Atlético's two consecutive defeats, Koke said: "We have a great desire to play the next match and win it."

He also praised his teammate Pablo Barrios, stating: "Pablo is an absolutely fantastic player, and I hope he continues to perform at this level, as he gives us a lot."