Atletico's Diego Costa deserves goal run - Diego Simeone

Diego Costa

Diego Costa's mentality has been key to his fine scoring run, according to Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone.

Spain striker Costa, 25, scored twice as Atletico beat AC Milan 4-1 to progress to the Champions League quarter-finals.

Costa has now scored 29 goals in all competitions this season for La Liga's second-placed side.

Simeone said: "Nobody gifts him anything. Everything he manages is a result of his effort, and sacrifice."

Costa, who made his Spain debut last week despite winning two caps for his homeland Brazil, has scored seven goals in his five Champions League appearances this season.

Atletico have reached the last eight of the tournament for the first time since 1997.

Simeone is pleased by the manner of his team's progress following their comprehensive win over Clarence Seedorf's side.

"I'm happy because this is a group of men who interpret football in an extraordinary way," he said.

"They have incredible passion for our play. We played the game we needed to, especially at the start."