Atlético's Anoeta hangover as Simeone's men turn focus to Saudi Arabia
Rojiblancos now 11 points adrift of Barcelona after disappointing draw at Real Sociedad, with Supercopa de España offering immediate shot at redemption
A thoughtful and isolated Simeone reflects on dropped points that further expose Atlético’s away day blues, as attention quickly shifts to this week’s Supercopa challenge in Saudi Arabia.
Anoeta aftermath
The draw at Real Sociedad has left Atlético Madrid in a proper pickle, now sitting 11 points behind league leaders Barcelona. It’s another disappointing result that highlights their ongoing struggles away from the Metropolitano, where they’ve managed just 13 points from a possible 30 this season.
Monday saw the usual post-match recovery routine:
- Starters limited to gym work
- Substitutes training on the pitch
- Full squad won’t reunite until Wednesday in Saudi Arabia
The gaffer looked proper deep in thought watching it all unfold - not surprising given how his team’s title hopes are starting to look as solid as a chocolate teapot.
Intensity the focus
One thing was crystal clear from today’s training session: intensity was the name of the game. The coaching staff hammered home the importance of upping the tempo and pressing with greater urgency - elements that were sorely missing against La Real but were instrumental in their emphatic 5-2 derby victory at the Metropolitano earlier this season.
Simeone knows they need to sort out these away day issues sharpish if they don’t want to end up with sweet Fanny Adams in the trophy cabinet this season.
Saudi Arabia game plan
The team will be heading to the airport at noon tomorrow, jetting off to Saudi Arabia where they’ll face their first challenge for silverware this season.
The official schedule in Jeddah includes:
- Press conference at King Abdullah Stadium (17:15 local time, 15:15 Madrid time)
- Training session 45 minutes later
- Supercopa semi-final against Real Madrid the following day
If the Rojiblancos can overcome their city rivals, they’ll face the winner of Athletic Club vs Barcelona in the final, offering an immediate opportunity for redemption after their league form has taken a wobble.