Diego Simeone praised the impact of Atletico Madrid's substitutes after his side recorded a ninth straight win in all competitions with their 4-3 victory over Sevilla.
Atletico came from 3-1 down in the second half thanks to Simeone's substitutions, including the introduction of Brazilian winger Samuel Lino, who equalized at 3-3 before Antoine Griezmann sealed the comeback in the 94th minute.
Simeone's side have now gained 12 points from losing positions in LaLiga this season, more than any other team in the division.
With Atletico in third place with 35 points, one point behind Real Madrid and just three behind leaders Barcelona, Simeone pointed to the performances of substitutes as the key to turning his side into a title contender.
“The team is working very well as a unit. It makes me happy when those who are waiting participate well in the match because that is the strength to stay in the match,” Simeone told a news conference.
“They've all played since we started [the season] and they played a lot, almost all of them. Some have made better use of the opportunities they have been given, others are trying to improve to get more.
“Lino's goal makes me happy because he was looking for it. Today he scored an important goal for the comeback, and hopefully it will give him the confidence he needs.”
“Today the team made me very happy with the reaction they had to the substitutions.”
THIS. IS. ATHLETI pic.twitter.com/uRufyF3ITO
— Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) December 8, 2024
Atletico's talisman and all-time top scorer Griezmann scored a double to take him to seven goals in LaLiga this season, earning high praise from his coach.
“He didn't play well in the first half, but he had already done a lot with little,” said Simeone. “In the second half I think he improved. The fourth goal came and, well, we love him very much.
“He is a man who has always given everything to Atletico Madrid.”
Atletico have not lost since a 1-0 defeat to Real Betis on October 27. However, despite their good form, Simeone remained cautious about the challenges they will face as the season progresses.
“In a long season, with so many matches, with LaLiga, Champions League, Copa del Rey, Club World Cup, there are many matches and obviously we will have to go through different phases,” he added.
“The most important thing is to be strong and make sure these situations cause as little damage as possible.”
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