Defensive intensity Atléti’s main strength
Another impressive display from Atléti’s defenders and Jan Oblak resulted in another clean sheet, their third on the bounce. While Atléti are struggling up the other end with their goalscoring, Simeone has been able to rely on all his defenders to do their job which has, like in this match, solidified victories that keep the Madrid side in second place.
Tiago’s injury a huge concern for Simeone
The experienced central-midfielder has had a solid beginning to the 2015-16 campaign so far. His influence in the middle of the pitch has been vital in both shielding the defence as well as helping create chances for his forwards. While Simeone has options available to replace the injured midfielder – Koke is able to play alongside Gabi in the centre as well as youngsters Saúl and Óliver – it is Tiago’s defensive qualities that separate him from anyone else.
While Koke, Saúl and Óliver are excellent going forward, creating chances and deputising in the centre of midfield, none have the strength and awareness in defending Tiago has. With a key fixture in the Champions League coming up against Benfica for top spot and domestic matches that Atléti need to win in order to keep up with high-flyers Barcelona, Simeone will hope Tiago will not be out for long as his influence is vital to Atléti’s chances of success.
Atléti need to turn their dominance into goals
Like their midweek encounter against Galatasaray in the Champions League, Atléti comfortably dominated their opposition from start to finish, controlling possession and creating more than a dozen chances. But while they are currently getting the results they need and are in good positions in La Liga and the Champions League, Simeone will need to find a way to make his players start turning their efforts into goals. Against more difficult opposition, the defence may play a part in determining the success of Atléti’s season.
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