Diego Simeone admits his team wanted to perform but “couldn’t” in their 4-0 defeat to PSG in the Club World Cup.
Simeone said: “I saw a team that wanted to, but couldn’t.” The Atlético coach praised his team’s effort under pressure, but admitted PSG’s cohesion was simply superior.
Simeone highlighted two key moments: a VAR decision disallowing Julián Álvarez’s equaliser just before half-time, and the red card for Clement Lenglet in the 78th minute. Both turning points that “complicated” Atlético’s chances.
Embed from Getty ImagesHe added that his players showed “intention and commitment” throughout, and insisted: “We still depend on ourselves to advance” in a group that also includes Seattle and Botafogo.
Simeone refused to blame refereeing or the California heat, even with four yellows and a red, he emphasised accountability: “Not speaking about the referees anymore. . . we lost to a better team.”
His focus now turns to their next match in Seattle. He vowed to channel lessons from this defeat. More ball control, greater personality, and discipline. Atlético may have been beaten 4–0 but Simeone’s challenge is clear. Rebuild confidence and fight back.
Embed from Getty ImagesWritten by Pejuola Ransome
INMR FOOTBALL 
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