Simeone admits Atlético faltered as Liverpool claim opening Champions League win

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 9, 2026: At Anfield, Liverpool secured a 2‑1 victory over Atlético de Madrid in the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD1. Diego Simeone’s second‑half tactical changes could not overturn the deficit, and the Atlético coach lamented the drop‑off in performance.

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Physical condition and half‑time assessment

Simeone told reporters that it is normal not to perform at the same level in the second half, suggesting the squad were not physically up to scratch. He added that the first half had been played well, but the second half saw mistakes that turned their effort into a footnote. The Atletico side struggled to maintain intensity after the break.

He recalled a similar collapse in Bilbao, where Atlético lost 3‑0 to Athletic Club, and noted that the team had also conceded one goal in Seville and two tonight. He stressed that reducing such lapses will be crucial for future matches, describing the goals as the side’s own responsibility.

Tactical changes and building phase

Cristian Romero, who joined the club two weeks ago, impressed Simeone with his strength and responsibility in individual situations. Julian Alvarez, according to the manager, was fantastic, wanting the ball from the first minute to the 90th, which made Simeone very happy.

When the substitutions arrived while the team were trailing, Simeone said the changes were intended to find new solutions, though he could not recall the exact number of chances created. He stressed that small details decide whether a side sits at the top, mid‑table or down there, and that adjustments were needed because many conceded goals were self‑inflicted. Simeone also noted that the team must improve its defensive organisation to avoid similar self‑inflicted goals.

Simeone reiterated that Atlético are in a building phase, a reality that fans may dislike but which requires hard work. He urged the squad to improve and to accept the minute details that can render a defeat pointless.

The 2‑1 loss means Atlético begin their Champions League campaign on the back foot, while Liverpool start with three points. Simeone concluded that the defeat erases any positive aspects that could have been taken from the match.