Diego Simeone expressed that Julián Álvarez‘s goal and assist during Atlético Madrid‘s impressive 4-0 victory in the Copa del Rey against Barcelona will help the forward regain his confidence after an 11-match scoring drought.
Álvarez, who had not scored since December 9, played a pivotal role in Thursday’s semifinal first leg at the Metropolitano.
– Barcelona taught ‘lesson’ by Atlético in Copa rout
The Argentine international assisted January signing Ademola Lookman to score the third goal just 30 minutes in, before netting the fourth himself to put Atlético firmly in control at halftime.
“The stats speak for themselves when it comes to [Álvarez],” Simeone remarked during his post-match press conference. “His assist to Lookman was outstanding. [Álvarez’s] effort in the first half was remarkable.
“He has a natural talent for scoring goals, and thankfully he’s back. That goal was crucial for him, and it will definitely help him focus on what comes next.”
“[Álvarez] is an incredible player and individual,” said full-back Nahuel Molina. “He’s a winner and a fighter, always striving to move forward because he’s a great person.”
Given Atlético’s mixed performance this season, the Copa offers their best opportunity for silverware as they sit 13 points behind in La Liga and are set to face Club Brugge in a Champions League playoff later this month.
Atlético and Barcelona will now await three weeks for the second leg of their semifinal at Camp Nou on March 3.
Simeone praised the “energy” in the Metropolitano following his team’s first-half onslaught against Hansi Flick’s side, who had previously defeated Atletico 3-1 in their last La Liga encounter in December.
“The four forwards — Giuliano [Simeone], Julian, [Antoine] Griezmann, and Lookman — executed their roles excellently, taking advantage of the spaces left by the opponent,” Simeone noted.
“This game will remain in our memories, no matter the outcome in the tie. We’ll always remember a performance like this. Our fans thrive on games like this—big games, semifinals.”