The match was a competition between two teams with solid attack and defense. With the intention of finding a draw before returning home, Atletico proactively "poured concrete" in front of goalkeeper Oblak's goal. This plan of Mr. Simone and his team almost paid off.
Man City controlled the ball well after the start, while Atletico actively retreated deep to defend. Coach Diego Simeone helped his players create a solid block in front of the penalty area, thereby preventing Man City's group coordination.
Facing Man City's deadlocked attacking style of play, coach Pep Guardiola decided to send Phil Foden, Jack Grealish and Gabriel Jesus to the field to stay. A few dozen seconds after being present, Foden rushed straight into the middle of the Atletico surrounding, then deposited a pass for De Bruyne to escape. In the Oblak position, the Belgian midfielder shot to the far corner to open the score.
Although they were behind, Atletico did not rush forward to find an equalizer. They still maintained their defensive player mentality in the final minutes of the match. Coach Simeone jumped up a few times to be happy when his team prevented Man City from scoring a second goal.
The Argentine coach and his students will prepare for the return match at Wanda Metropolitano on April 13.
