Atletico coach Simeone highlights Inter advantage ahead of Champions League clash

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ByPeter Young

Feb 12, 2024 11:59

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone suggested that Inter have a slight advantage heading into the Champions League Round of 16 first leg next week, as the Nerazzurri will have four days between Serie A and European matches, while Atleti will have only three to prepare. 

Inter host Atletico at San Siro on Tuesday, February 20 in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16, which will kick off at 20.00 GMT. The reverse fixture in Madrid is scheduled for March 13. 

Before the first leg, Inter will play at home against 20th placed Salernitana in Serie A, but Atletico will have a day less to prepare, as they host Las Palmas in LaLiga on Saturday at 13.00 GMT. 

“We must have patience and take advantage of this week, when we will have a little more time to prepare. Inter play on Friday, but we will be on Saturday, so thanks to LaLiga and the federation,” Simeone said in his post-match press conference following the 1-0 loss to Sevilla on Sunday, reported via FCInter1908.it.

Atletico reached two Champions League finals within three years under Simeone between 2014 and 2016, but have only gone further than the Round of 16 stage twice in the last seven seasons. 

Inter, meanwhile, have more recent memories of Champions League progression, having reached the competition’s final last season, losing 1-0 to Manchester City in Istanbul.