Simeone laments Atlético “mistakes” in controversy-riddled derby loss

MADRID, SPAIN - MARCH 22: Diego Simeone, head coach of Atletico de Madrid, protests during the Spanish League, LaLiga EA Sports, football match played between Real Madrid and Atletico de Madrid at Bernabeu stadium on March 22, 2026, in Madrid, Spain. (Photo By Oscar J. Barroso/Europa Press via Getty Images) | Europa Press via Getty Images

Atlético Madrid coach Diego Simeone refused to pin his team’s defeat in the derby against Real Madrid on refereeing decisions from José Luis Munuera on Sunday night, despite several controversial calls in a 3-2 loss.

“I don’t think that’s the reason we didn’t win,” Simeone responded to the first of many questions on the refereeing. “We had the chance to capitalise on the good opportunities we created, but we weren’t able to take that final step and win a match where we at least deserved a bit more.”

Visit casino-promo.biz for more information.

Simeone on Lookman

“He’s been improving, working very hard, offering us different options in attack, and that’s exactly what we need from him. We also need him to help us improve defensively, because he has what it takes. With a huge heart and a willingness to learn and try to improve, he’s brilliant, and hopefully he’ll continue to deliver important moments for us, just as he did today.”

Simeone on Cardoso saying the refereeing standards weren’t the same for both sides

“I’m not getting involved in that situation because I don’t think it affected the match. We could have done more, controlled the match differently after the 1-0, not made mistakes, managed things better, and we’re up against strong opponents who play well and will hurt you at the slightest opportunity.”

🚨 Johnny Cardoso: "There was a penalty on Llorente that wasn’t given, but we move on. I don’t think the referee applied the same criteria to both sides. Fouls were given one way, but not for us." pic.twitter.com/kszRSc6tPz

— Atletico Universe (@atletiuniverse) March 22, 2026

Simeone on Llorente’s penalty appeal and the one given against Hancko

“I was miles away from both incidents. I didn’t even see them on TV.”

⚠️⚽️ @Itu_Edu, sobre el penalti que convirtió @ViniJr en el #RealMadridAtleti de #LaLiga

❌ "NO es penalti, es Brahim quien golpea la pierna de Hancko" pic.twitter.com/yewVKnb4PW

— Carrusel Deportivo (@carrusel) March 22, 2026

Simeone on lacking control of the match

“We needed to control the game better, create more dangerous chances, and we weren’t able to put into practice what I’m talking about.”

Simeone on the team’s mistakes

“I’ve already said this four times. I don’t have much more to add.”

Read full story at source