Cornella shock Atletico Madrid with third division minnows beating Liga leaders in Copa Del Rey

ByReuters

Updated 06/01/2021 at 20:28 GMT

Diego Simeone rested some first-team regulars for a game played on an artificial surface, but still included the likes of Joao Felix, Renan Lodi, Saul Niguez, Felipe and Angel Correa. Atletico can now focus on thier Liga title bid and the Champions League, where they face Chelsea in the round of 16.

Players of Cornella celebrate victory Cornella v Atletico Madrid at Camp Municipal de Cornella, Barcelona, Spain January 06, 2021

Image credit: Getty Images

La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid were knocked out of the Copa del Rey after a shock 1-0 defeat away to third division side Cornella on Wednesday.

Adrian Jimenez met a free-kick on the volley to score the only goal of the game in the seventh minute, while Atletico had right back Ricard Sanchez sent off midway through the second half after earning two bookings in the space of 12 minutes.

Atletico boss Diego Simeone rested some players for the second-round tie, played on an artificial pitch, but still fielded a strong side containing record signing Joao Felix plus fellow first-team regulars Renan Lodi, Saul Niguez, Felipe and Angel Correa.

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The defeat was arguably Simeone's worst in charge of the club, and the coach had words of praise for the opposition.

"We always try to win but the opposition was better, like last year. We had chances but they started very well," said Simeone, according to . "They competed well and played the match they wanted to, they kept the intensity up and we have to congratulate them.

"When the other team is better than you, you have to congratulate them."

While the loss was tough to take, Atletico also saw Jose Gimenez depart at half-time with an ankle injury.

Atletico, who have lifted the trophy 10 times, most recently in 2013, were also knocked out of last year's competition by a third division side, going down 2-1 away to Cultural Leonesa after extra-time.

Simeon's side can now focus on their Liga quest, and their bid for glory in the UEFA Champions League - where they face Chelsea in the round of 16.

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