Diego Simeone praises mothers of Atletico Madrid players for producing sons with 'balls' after win over Chelsea

The Spanish side overcame Chelsea to set up a final against Real Madrid later this month

Jose Mourinho and Diego Simeone during Chelsea v Atletico Madrid (Getty Images)

Diego Simeone has bizarrely praised his players' mothers for producing sons with "balls" following Atletico Madrid's Champions League victory over Chelsea.

The Spanish club set up a final against Real Madrid later this month thanks to a 3-1 win at Stamford Bridge.

It is just the latest achievement in an incredible season that sees the side so often in the shadow of their wealthier neighbours currently residing at the top of La Liga.

After the semi-final win over Chelsea, Simeone told reporters: "I want to thank the mothers of these kids, because they were born with balls this big.

"The reaction of the team will remain in the memories of people. They were against a powerful team with a long history in the Champions League so I'm very happy."

Atletico, who had not reached a European Cup final since 1974 before Wednesday, will take their place in this year's showpiece in Lisbon on May 24.

It will be the first time a derby has taken centre stage for European football's biggest prize but Simeone is not overawed by the prospect.

"Real Madrid are a powerful club and they are accustomed to these situations, but we arrive with enthusiasm and desire after waiting many years to get to this final," he added.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti congratulated Atletico and suggested the final is too close to call.

"Atletico deserved to reach the final because they were better than Chelsea," he told Sky Italia.

"In Madrid people are happy to have a derby in the final.

"There is no favourite. Atletico are doing very well in the league, but anything can happen."