“Players like Xabi Alonso in midfield have the capacity to read the whole game,” Simeone said then. “Alonso’s return meant Madrid found the famous ‘balance’ their coach (then Carlo Ancelotti) was looking for. But the balance is Xabi Alonso, not the others.”

Piero Hincapie had put Leverkusen a goal up in the first half, following Pablo Barrios' red card for Atleti, which had looked like it put the visitors on course for victory

Diego Simeone praises Atletico Madrids comeback victory over Bayer Leverkusen, highlighting key moments and team spirit in the Champions League.

Manchester City star Jack Grealish has sent a message of congratulations the way of former teammate Julián Álvarez.This, of course, comes owing to the latter’s heroics in Atlético Madrid’s

Poppy Miller, Tony Meola, Nigel Reo-Coker & Mike Grella break down Julián Alvarez's wonderful performance as his two goals helped Diego Simeone and Atlético Madrid comeback and win 2-1 against Bayer Leverkusen!

Diego Simeone said Julián Álvarez is destined to end up "in a special place" with Atlético Madrid after scoring twice -- including a 90th minute winner -- in their 2-1 comeback win over Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday.

Atletico Madrid host Bayer Leverkusen in the UEFA Champions League with both sides vying for a place in the round of 16 at the end of the league phase. Diego Simeone's men come into this 11th in the UCL standings and one point off the top eight with Xabi Alonso's side fourth with 13 points from six games.

Julian Alvarez scored a second-half brace as a 10-man Atletico Madrid came from a goal down to beat Bayer Leverkusen 2-1 at home on Tuesday, and take a major step towards a top-eight finish.

Two second half goals from Julian Álvarez, including a last minute winner, saw Atletico Madrid come from behind to beat Bayer Leverkusen. Pablo Barrios was sent off inside a half an hour, following a challenge on Nordi Mukiele that was upgraded to red by VAR.

Former Manchester City striker Julian Alvarez scored a 90th-minute winner to lift Atletico Madrid past Bayer Leverkusen 2-1