I'm responsible for Atletico's loss- Diego Simeone

Tomiwa Babalola

Atletico Madrid coach, Diego Simeone has admitted that he was his side's reason for losing to Barcelona at the Vincent de Calderón in the second leg of the Copa del Rey quarter finals.

Second position Barcelona in the Spanish La Liga beat Diego Simoene's side 3-2 in the game on Wednesday night with Neymar stricking twice to help the Catalans progress to the next round of the Spanish cup.

"We've had a very respectable cup run. Knocking out Hospitalet and Real Madrid was significant because it gave us the chance to face Barça. We competed well against them. In the second half the team played without taking any risks at the back or looking to score goals, which was my decision. I'm the coach and I decide what is most appropriate for the club's future. We did what suited us best. For me, the match was over in the first half".

"I'm proud of my players. The first half was extraordinary. We played with great enthusiasm and intensity. It was tough because the pitch wasn't great".

"I've been told Gabi said to the referee that it was a penalty and a sending off. He should have understood that he had to give him a second yellow."

"Barcelona have a much more intense style of play now. The arrival of Luis Suárez has made their squad stronger and the new goalkeepers have given them more confidence. That has made the team grow".

The Argentine coach believed that Luis Suarez, who is currently struggling with goals has been a force that has strengthened the Barcelona side that failed to win a silverware last season. 

"I believe that winning the title away to Barcelona was the biggest accomplishment that these boys can ever achieve", he added, referring to last season's La Liga title.

 MARCA