Simeone laments 'really bad' Atleti loss
Diego Simeone was left extremely disappointed by Atletico Madrid's "bad performance" as his side squandered a chance to move top of LaLiga.
Atleti suffered a late 2-1 defeat to Getafe, who took advantage when Angel Correa was sent off for a studs-up tackle after Alexander Sorloth had given the visitors the lead from the penalty spot.
Getafe fought back thanks to a last-gasp, quickfire double by Mauro Arambarri, with Atletico unable to find a late equaliser after his second in the 92nd minute.
Atletico was unbeaten in 24 league matches against Getafe prior to this game (W20 D4), with this defeat ending its longest unbeaten streak against the same opponent in the top-flight.
"The match didn't offer anything, it wasn't a good match to watch and a really bad performance," Simeone said. "From a tactical point of view, each team looked for what suited them best.
"We didn't find what we were looking for but that was a penalty, then Angel was sent off and... poof... It couldn't be."
With a game in hand, Barcelona sits top of the league with 57 points, with Real Madrid drawing level on points with Hansi Flick's side after a 2-1 win over Rayo Vallecano. Atletico is one point behind the pair.
Atletico will face old rival Madrid in the second leg of their Champions League round-of-16 tie on Thursday before hosting Barca in LaLiga on Monday.
"It's been 20 minutes since it ended and nobody can be happy. The players are not well because we didn't play a good match, but we have to be strong together and improve through play," Simeone said.
"I don't think it was a matter of attitude, the mental side was okay, but it wasn't a good game by us.
"Nothing happened in the match. It was a tight game. We had the chance to manage the end better, but it can happen, it's football... It happens...
"Congratulations to the opponent and let's be calm and accept it... Let's move forward."
