Diego Simeone declared Arsenal the strongest opponent Atletico Madrid has encountered this season following their Champions League semi-final defeat.

Arsenal Advances to First Final in 20 Years

Arsenal secured a 2-1 aggregate victory over Atletico Madrid, with Bukayo Saka’s first-half goal proving decisive in the second leg at the Emirates Stadium. The first leg ended in a 1-1 draw. This triumph propels Arsenal into their first Champions League final since 2006, set for May 30 in Budapest. The Gunners also hold a five-point lead over Manchester City in the Premier League title race.

Simeone Praises Arsenal’s Dominance

Simeone acknowledged Arsenal’s superiority across both legs. “Arsenal were the better team over these two legs; they are the best team we have faced this season,” he stated. “They play with a rhythm and conviction that is very difficult to contain.”

Despite facing La Liga powerhouses Barcelona and Real Madrid multiple times, Simeone singled out Mikel Arteta’s side as the top challenge. Addressing suggestions of misfortune, he responded: “If we got knocked out, it’s because our opponents deserved to get through. They took their big chance in the first half and deserved it.”

Simeone reflected on Atletico’s performance: “We weren’t clinical enough in the situations we were in. We improved in the second half, but things that could’ve gone our way didn’t. We gave it our all and now we have to accept where we are.” He expressed pride in reaching the semis: “We wanted to compete, and we have done that. We’ve got to places that are hard to get to.”

Compliments for Arteta and Arsenal’s Rise

In his post-match press conference, Simeone lauded Arteta: “Mikel has done an incredible job at Arsenal. He’s been trying to get to this point for a long time, to reach the Champions League final and win the league.” He credited their success to sustained effort and resources: “They have incredible financial power linked to what they’re doing. I’m really pleased for them; they deserve it after working hard for many years.”

Oblak Echoes Teammate’s Sentiment

Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak concurred that Arsenal earned their progression. “Whoever wins is always the best team,” he said. “They won it—congratulations to them. Of course, we are sad and angry, but that’s football.”

Oblak noted tactical adjustments: “The second half was good. Maybe we showed them too much respect in the first half and were afraid to play. It was good after that, but not enough to progress.”

Other Semi-Final Update

Arsenal awaits the winner of the Bayern Munich vs. PSG clash, where PSG holds a 5-4 lead from the first leg ahead of the second leg.