Thomas Partey disappointed by Atletico Madrid's Copa del Rey exit

Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey has expressed disappointment in Atlético Madrid's Copa del Rey exit on Wednesday night.

Thomas Partey saw full-time action for Atlético Madrid in their 3-3 draw with Girona as they failed to progress to the quarter-finals on away goal ruling.

The Rojiblancos drew 1-1 at the Estadio Montilivi before last night 3-3 draw at the Wanda Metropolitano saw Girona progress.

"We had control, but we have to continue working to manage it better. The VAR? We have to focus on our work and do it better. The Cup was important for us but we have to forget it to get stronger and win," he said after the game.

Atletico made the perfect start through Nikola Kalinic's opener.

Valery Fernandez and Cristhian Stuani struck to swing the tie Girona's way before Angel Correa's equaliser.

Antoine Griezmann's goal looked to have put the hosts into the next round but Seydou Doumbia scored with two minutes left to send Girona through.

There was more bad news for an Atletico side already missing several first-team regulars to injury, with Spain midfielder Saul Niguez forced off with a muscle problem early in the second half.