Simeone content with Osasuna triumph

By FOX Sports staff

In a game against opponents he described as 'tough', the Rojiblancos picked up all three points thanks to a brace from Diego Costa, which was enough to put them a point behind second-placed Real Madrid, as they look to consolidate their grip on an automatic qualifying spot for next season's UEFA Champions League.

Simeone believes Sunday's game could have been very difficult had his players not approached it with the right mentality, which is why the result was ultimately pleasing in his eyes.

"We are pleased with the effort of the players," he said on the club's official website. "It wasn't an easy game.

"You have to know how to play in this field. If you don't play the right way here, you've got more of a chance of losing than winning.

"We went out from the first minute and played the right way. We took advantage of the situation we had and that generated chances, in the second half we could have killed off the game with the chances we had."

The Argentinean was also pleased his side were able to keep a clean sheet against an Osasuna side who showed plenty of energy and desire in the attacking third.

"As long as the team wins without conceding, it's a good sign," Simeone added. "Osasuna are tough opponents that are powerful.

"We played the way we wanted and took our chances.

"The match was never dead. They had many chances, especially from corners, and on one occasion forced a good save out of [goalkeeper Thibaut] Courtois in the first half.

"It's a good result, important for the team, thanks to good teamwork."

Atletico return to La Liga action on March 31 when they entertain Valencia