Attack the best form of defence for Atleti against Yamal, says Simeone - Soccer News

[ad_1] Diego Simeone believes forcing Lamine Yamal to defend is the easiest way to make him uncomfortable, forward of Atletico Madrid’s Copa del Rey showdown with Barcelona.

Atleti are defending a 4-0 lead over the Blaugrana as they appear to succeed in their first home cup closing since 2012-13, with the second leg happening at Camp Nou on Tuesday.

Simeone’s aspect are overwhelming favourites to progress to a showpiece match towards Actual Sociedad or Athletic Membership, but when one participant is able to stopping them, it's Yamal.

Yamal scored a hat-trick as Barca trounced Villarreal 4-1 in LaLiga on Saturday, a end result that did Atleti a favour as they battle the Yellow Submarine to complete third.

At 18 years and 230 days outdated, Yamal turned the youngest participant to attain a hat-trick in LaLiga this century, however Simeone has a plan to counteract his brilliance.

“He’s an excellent participant, a game-changer, particularly within the closing third,” Simeone stated.

“But when we are able to assault down that aspect, we are able to power him into the realm the place he feels most uncomfortable, which is defending.”

No matter it takes. pic.twitter.com/jTxGNxbUKW

— Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) March 2, 2026

Atleti could also be a good distance off the title tempo in LaLiga, however they routed Membership Brugge 4-1 within the Champions League final week and, on paper, have a sort last-16 draw towards Premier League strugglers Tottenham.

The membership’s final main trophy was the league title in 2020-21, however Simeone is optimistic about their hopes on a number of fronts.

“We’re doing properly within the Copa, doing properly within the Champions League… Many situations are potential,” he stated.

“We’re good with the place we’re in, as a result of we’re combating for what we would like.

“I gave the whole lot as a participant, and now I’m not on the pitch any extra, I wish to inform the lads that taking part in these sorts of matches is great.