After Atlético Madrid 1:2 Real Madrid: XABI ALONSO about…
…the Halbfinale in the Spanish Super Cup: “It was a semi-final. The early goal changed everything and gave us an advantage that we wanted to defend. We had to do that at times, but the goal was to get to the final. It wasn’t about just defending, it was about winning the game. It was a hard-fought game and the team did well and showed fighting spirit and determination. In the end, with the score at 2-1, the team was able to hold on for the win. Even when the score was 2-0, we had to adjust things and stuff We’re fighting for the title. We know how to hold our own and we’ll have time to analyze today’s game. We’re now in the final and we’re really looking forward to the game on Sunday.“
…the interaction: “In some situations things go as we discussed, in others there was a lack of composure on the ball to move forward and play together better. We talked about not always starting with short passes.“
…the emotions: “I’m happy with the game. The goal was to progress against a strong opponent and we did that. We haven’t forgotten the LaLiga first leg. There are things we can do better, but I’m happy.“
…Federico Valverde’s goal: “Really a classic goal for him! I was longing for a shot like that from Fede. It was close, but he scored and that was very important. He played a fantastic game, not only because of the goal and the assist, but above all because of his charisma. He was very committed defensively and that shows his fighting spirit. I’m happy for him. Goals aren’t the most important thing, but they give him extra self-confidence.“
It was like always when Real Madrid and city rivals Atlético meet in knockout duels… read more
…Antonio Rüdiger: “Antonio was limited and tried very hard, but couldn’t continue. He held on as long as he could. We then needed fresh strength. The new players got into the game well and after the substitutions we had a phase in which we stabilized with a lot of passes until we had to hold on in the last ten minutes. We’ll see if we get more players back until Sunday.“
…die Auswechslung von Vinícius Júnior: “Atlético moved up a lot and ran through the gaps from both inside and outside. We had to give the wing a little more stability with the substitution.“
…the conflict with Diego Simeone: “I try to be respectful to the opposing team. I didn’t like this situation. I saw Cholo say something to Vinícius (he pointed out to Vini the whistles of some Madridistas against the Brazilian; editor) and for me something like that goes beyond the respect that you have to show your colleague. Then I saw what he said and I don’t like my players being treated like that. This is not a good example of sportsmanship. I don’t treat rivals like that and not everything is acceptable. You have to respect your opponent and what happens on the field has its limits.“
…the upcoming final against FC Barcelona (Sunday, 8 p.m.): “It’s a final and a chance that we have. We have to prepare for the game on Sunday and we’re looking forward to it. It will be different to the game in LaLiga.“
