Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone said beating PSV Eindhoven 2-0 to top their Champions League group was a welcome boost for this team after recent setbacks, but they should be judged at the end of the season.
After a goalless first-half in which Atletico striker Kevin Gameiro missed the clearest chance, the France international opened the scoring with a sweet low cross-shot from Antoine Griezmann's assist. Griezmann then made it 2-0 after good work from the recalled Tiago Mendes as Atletico maintained their 100 percent record in the competition.
The Estadio Vicente Calderon fans, who on Saturday had suffered a 3-0 defeat to Real Madrid, were celebrating a victory which ensured top spot after Bayern Munich's surprise 3-2 defeat at Rostov.
Speaking to BeIN Sports, the Colchoneros coach said that the crowd had helped lift his players to the win, however it was important for everyone around the club to remain focused on their long-term goals.
"It was not easy, after losing on Saturday, to play at home again," Simeone said. "The fans responded extraordinary well and the players felt that.
"The team got better as the game went on, and the first goal freed up our play. Over the season there are different moments that you must live with. The only thing that counts are the objectives and how you end up. Criticism will be there, and praise, you should not be distracted by either.
"We are happy, finished a game early in first place, in a difficult group. We resolved it very well -- above all with the away games in Russia and the Netherlands. It is a very big step for the club to have been in the last-16 for four seasons in a row."
A first clean sheet in six outings came after Simeone had recalled veteran Tiago to a holding midfield role, meaning playmaker Koke was back in a wide midfield position.
"We have various options in the centre of the field," Simeone added. "With Koke close to the forwards it is easier for him to make chances.
"Our pace up front was key. There is not just one way to win games. Any way that you choose, and then execute well, is the best. Here the only thing that counts are our objectives."
The only low point for Atletico fans was a muscle injury which forced off left-back Filipe Luis midway through the second half.
"The doctors will tell you more, but we hope it is not too serious," Simeone said.
Atletico finish their campaign away to Bayern Munich in two weeks.