ReactionKostas Tsimikas: Atletico victory was for the fans
A delighted Kostas Tsimikas dedicated Liverpool’s 2-0 defeat of Atletico Madrid in the Champions League to the supporters.
Having seen an early two-goal lead cancelled out by Brighton & Hove Albion four days earlier, the Reds ensured no such repeat on Wednesday night to clinch top spot in Group B and a place in the last 16.
Diogo Jota’s header was followed by Sadio Mane’s close-range finish – both set up by Trent Alexander-Arnold – for Jürgen Klopp’s side, who then faced 10 men for almost an hour after Felipe was sent off.
Watch highlights: Liverpool 2-0 Atletico
Tsimikas had come in to the starting XI to face Atletico as the manager made five changes and the left-back was thrilled to play a part in an important victory.
“We are very happy, everybody gave everything,” he told Liverpoolfc.com. “It was an unbelievable night for everybody. We are very happy about that. We give this win to our fans, who one more night were outstanding.
“It was very, very important for us – it’s finished now, we secured first position. But we are Liverpool and we play every game to win and this is exactly the same for the next games also – we’ll play and we want to win.”
Liverpool have guaranteed qualification from what many termed the Champions League’s ‘group of death’ this season with two matches – at home versus FC Porto and away at AC Milan – to spare.
It is the first time the Reds have ever won each of their opening four fixtures in the group phase, a feat Tsimikas credited to the determination with which the task has been approached.
“That’s what we worked for. We showed every game we want to win,” noted the Greece international.
“We did it, we are very happy and we continue with the same [mindset] – only to win. We’ll continue with this.”
The return meeting with Atletico saw Tsimikas feature for the eighth time so far this season, already more appearances than he was able to clock up during his debut campaign.
The No.21 is feeling the benefits of a full pre-season with the squad and is focused on being in prime condition whenever called upon by the manager.
“Yes, of course now I feel more important. Last year I was very unlucky, I had COVID and two injuries,” said Tsimikas.
“But I started the season with the team, I did all the preparations. Last year I didn’t do it. Now I’m waiting for the next games and I will prepare myself to be ready.”