Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone praised his side's intelligence in Tuesday's 2-1 come-from-behind home win over Bayer Leverkusen, saying the victory was "no coincidence".

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone said their 2-1 comeback win over Bayer Leverkusen would live long in the memory as he praised his side's bravery after they played more than an hour with 10 men in a thrilling Champions League clash on Tuesday.

Atletico was forced to play with 10 men when Pablo Barrios was red-carded 23 minutes in, with Leverkusen taking the lead through Piero Hincapie in first-half stoppage time.

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.

To view video content, visit the Korea JoongAng Daily website or click “기사 원문” Julian Alvarez made Atletico Madrid’s comeback possible against Bayer Leverkusen by scoring two goals. Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez speaks after his side's 2-1 win over Bayer 04 Leverkusen in the Champions League on Jan.

Atletico Madrid secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Bayer Leverkusen in a dramatic Champions League encounter at the intimidating Estadio Metropolitano.