Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone defended his players after their 1-0 home defeat to Champions League opponents AC Milan.

Junior Messias headed home Milan's winner in the second-half.

“I do not agree that it was a bad performance and I have nothing to reproach the team," insisted Simeone in his press conference.

“Both teams tried to attack in the first half, we did well defensively and in attack didn't always make the right choices, but the same is true of Milan. We had a great chance to equalise with Matheus Cunha, who went just wide.

“We've had tougher campaigns, so I continue to remain optimistic and confident. You can't get away with anything in the Champions League, we've still got every chance of qualifying. Whoever deserves it will go through.

“I'm as optimistic as ever. We're alive and kicking."