Atletico Madrid forward Diego Costa has insisted that his team "deserved" to overcome Arsenal in the semi-finals of the Europa League to march on to the final of the competition.

The last-four tie was delicately poised following a 1-1 draw in the first leg last week, but Atletico finished the job in front of their own supporters courtesy of a strike from Costa late in the first period.

The Spain international was also keen to pay tribute to the Atletico supporters following the match, insisting that they helped the players 'get over the line'.

"We are a great team and we deserved to reach this final," Marca quotes Costa as saying. "This was a hugely important victory for us because we were up against a very strong opponent, who motivate me personally because of my battles in my time in England.

"In Lyon we must prepare thoroughly and give our all against another strong side but we know we will be inspired and helped by our fans, who were amazing tonight. We felt the passion and support of the fans on the pitch, it got us over the line and has made me very happy."

Atletico will take on Marseille in this season's Europa League final, with the French outfit surviving a scare to overcome Red Bull Salzburg 3-2 on aggregate.