Atlético de Madrid U19’s trip to Milan ended in a 2-0 defeat, as the Red-and-white were bowed out of the UEFA Youth League in the quarterfinals. Two goals at the Vismara Sports Center -one in each half- by Stalmach (12') and El Hiali (67') were enough to pass through the Final Four. Fernando Torres highlighted the big effort displayed by the Rojiblancos and called up the lads to focus on learning from mistakes and improve for the next challenges upcoming.

The Atlético coach said that “it was a very tough game for us. We dominated the game. They have made a very good approach, where we knew they could damage us in transitions. That's how it has been: the couple of chances they've had, both have come from a run into space. They have got more success up front than us ”.

"After last year’s experience, we know that this competition is pure success up front, we are very good in that game phase, but that last cross, that last shot… it’s been difficult for us despite the fact we have approached their box a lot of times”, added Fernando.

Peleamos y luchamos hasta el último minuto con coraje y corazón.

¡Esto sigue, equipo, ahora toca levantarse y continuar peleando por los objetivos que nos quedan por delante! pic.twitter.com/4DS2OdbBsx

— Atleti Academia (@AtletiAcademia) March 14, 2023

Torres believes that Learning from the European competition experience is a great value asset for the Academy player’s growth: “We have to congratulate our opponent and wish them the best. The defeat has to be helpful for us, both as a group and individually, to understand that this is part of the football game. Get the positives we've done this year, get the negatives also to improve and to make us better, each one in their position on the pitch”.

Finally, Torres pointed out the importance of turning page and focusing on the next league challenges, as Atletico are spotted on the top of the table with the same points Real Madrid grabbed: "We go home sad because we think that the result It does not reflect what has been seen in the game. But that's football. Whenever there is a hard defeat you have to bounce back as soon as possible. When it is a hard one like today, because we were very excited about this competition, it’s even more difficult. Our job now is to forget it as soon as possible and focus on the challenges ahead, to continue winning in the League and fighting for the title. Getting goals, game by game, day by day, to continue improving so that in the end, we can become Champions. We keep going”, finishes Torres.