Simeone: We were up against the best

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone is pleased with his side's performance following their progress into the Champions League final.

Simeone praised his team despite suffering a 2-1 loss (2-2 aggregate) on Tuesday, which allowed them passage into the final on the away goals rule.

The 46-year-old is delighted with how the campaign has progressed, having overcome defending champions Barcelona in the quarter-final before eliminated Bayern at the Allianz Arena.

"This Champions League has been spectacular and very difficult," said the coach.

"We have overcome two of the three best in the world, going through difficulties and suffering.

"In the first half we saw a tremendous Bayern, with pressure, speed and intensity. We were up against the best team I have faced in my career.

"Their first-half was fantastic, with us providing a minimal response to the situations they created.

"In the second-half it was no longer the same match, it was more even. We countered well, scored a goal and were closer to capitalising on our advantage from the [Vicente] Calderon."

Thomas Muller failed to convert a first-half penalty, while Fernando Torres's attempt from the spot was saved by Manuel Neuer in the closing stages of the match.

"The two penalties were key at the time because of what they transmitted," Simeone added.

"If they had scored theirs it would have become very difficult. And for them it would have cost a lot if Torres scored."