Atletico Madrid’s lack of preparation time has not dampened Diego Simeone’s confidence ahead of Sunday’s clash with Real Madrid, with the Argentine hoping their past derby successes can provide inspiration. #MadridDerby
Atleti remain unbeaten in their first seven LaLiga games, securing four wins and three draws. They are currently third, just two points behind their city rivals.
Los Colchoneros had two fewer days to prepare for the Madrid derby after beating Celta Vigo 1-0 on Thursday. Meanwhile, Ancelotti’s team defeated Alaves 3-2 on Tuesday.
Atleti hold a strong record against Los Blancos, being the only team to defeat them last season. They won in LaLiga last September and again in January’s Copa del Rey.
Simeone has masterminded 12 wins in his 43 Madrid derbies as Atletico coach (15 draws, 16 losses), as many victories as they managed in their previous 77 prior to his arrival.
Speaking at Saturday’s pre-match press conference, Simeone told reporters: “A lot has changed up to this moment.
“It’s an aspect in which we’ve improved, and that’s why the club has grown as it has, and the team is held to the standards it is.
“Everything starts in the mind. Beyond the physical aspect, which can have an influence at times, motivation is an important weapon for everything in life.”
The Argentine did admit the lack of preparation time posed a unique challenge, adding: “It’s tough to change things in two days, based on what we’ve been doing. #MadridDerby
“We are still in the process of finding our balance, we are adapting and we get it right more or less. But it is true that we need more time.
“We accept it as it is. We said it before when we went to play against Athletic Bilbao in the (Copa del Rey) semi-final, them with five days and us with two days of rest. No-one cares.”
Strategic Planning and Stamina Could Give Atletico the Edge in the Madrid Derby
Additionally, Atletico Madrid’s players have shown great stamina in previous matches, giving them an edge in the Madrid derby. Simeone trusts his squad’s ability to rise to the challenge. Therefore, the team’s focus on strategic planning could play a vital role in this crucial clash.
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