Simeone Demands Focus: Sevilla Clash Amidst CL Hopes

Diego Simeone expects Atletico Madrid to maintain focus for their LaLiga trip to Sevilla, even with a Champions League semi-final within reach. Atleti holds a 2-0 first-leg lead over Barcelona, but the league fixture against a relegation-threatened Sevilla remains critical.

Despite a comfortable 12-point lead over fifth-placed Real Betis in LaLiga, Simeone emphasized the importance of internal competition and club pride. He noted that players like Marc Pubill and Robin Le Normand have become essential through consistent performance.

Sevilla, currently 17th and only two points above the relegation zone, faces a crucial match. Simeone, who has a personal connection to Sevilla from his playing days, stressed that Atletico still requires points for a strong league finish.

Historically, Sevilla has never overturned a home first-leg Champions League knockout deficit. However, Simeone insists the league game demands the same intensity as their European campaign, despite potential squad rotation before the second leg against Barcelona.

Recent form shows Atleti has lost four of their last eight LaLiga games, dropping 22 points from winning positions this season. Historically, Simeone's league matches against Sevilla are often close, with nine draws in 28 encounters.

Player statistics also influence the outlook, with Sevilla's Isaac Romero scoring twice against Atleti, and Antoine Griezmann being a key scorer for Atletico against Sevilla with 10 goals. An Opta model gives Sevilla a slight edge in win probability.