Milan, Feb 20 (IANS): AC Milan head coach Clarence Seedorf said he was proud of his side despite their 0-1 loss to Atletico Madrid at home here.

Milan looked on course for a well-deserved draw after having better chances and hitting the woodwork twice. However, Diego Costa struck his fifth goal in four Champions League games in the 83rd minute Wednesday to win the Champions League Round of 16 first-leg clash, reports Xinhua.

"I think everyone saw what the lads did on the field. I am proud of what they did. In the last 20 minutes we lost our intensity and Atletico started to get closer, even without creating that many chances. We were a little unlucky with the goal but I saw some very good responses in the first half," Seedorf said.

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone admitted Milan played better in the first half.

"We knew that we'd be facing an intense Milan, especially in the first half. We started well, then started losing the ball too often and suffered down the right flank. Everyone knows when you reach the knockouts any mistake can get you eliminated," he said.

"We are aware of what we've got and what we don't. That is the strength of this team over the last two years as we know our limitations and build on what we can do."