The Spanish champions played out a dull 0-0 draw at Juventus in Group A of the UEFA Champions League - a result that saw them finish top.
Simeone's men did not play their usual pressing game, instead happy to sit back - particularly in the latter stages.
"We played the game we needed to play in order to finish top," he told Sky Sport Italia.
"It was a very tight first half with two important scoring opportunities and Juve created a few dangers down the right.
"After the break we did what we had to do.
"We expected it to be tough, as Juve are a strong side with many champions and can certainly go forward.
"We are happy, as for the second year running, we topped our group, and for Atletico Madrid, that means a lot in the Champions League.
"We calmly await what destiny brings us in the next phase."
Simeone also offered praise to a Juventus side who controlled Tuesday's match and said others would want to avoid them in the draw for the knockout stages.
"Juventus are an excellent side, with [Claudio] Marchisio out and some lads on the bench who are very talented," he added.
"I can assure everyone it won't be good to pick Juventus in the draw."
