Ronaldo Blasts 'Defensive' Atleti Tactics

• Goal.com, Friday, January 16, 2015 6:20 PM

Cristiano Ronaldo blasted Atletico Madrid for its unattractive style after the Rojiblancos ousted Real Madrid from the Spanish King’s Cup in the round of 16. Two early goals from Fernando Torres, one scored in each half, sealed Real’s fate, though Atleti’s 2-0 lead after the first leg at the Vicente Calderon ultimately proved to be the difference following the 2-2 draw at the Bernabeu on Thursday night.

"Atletico don't play attractive soccer. They are very defensive," the 2014 Ballon d’Or was quoted as saying by AS. "They just wait for dead-balls. But it works well for them, so their coach and players should be respected."

Meanwhile, Atleti coach Diego Simeone insisted that despite the two-game series win, his team has not yet caught up with Madrid: “We played against the best team in the world, the world champions and [UEFA] Champions League winners, in a great stadium, which was full,” the Argentine began. “They put on all the pressure in the first half. They did well. We defended deep but we did well. I don’t think we’ve caught up to Madrid. We always face a powerful team. We won a league with two teams that are required to win the Champions League.”

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