Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso expressed his complete satisfaction with his team’s valuable 1-0 victory over Juventus of Italy, in the third round of the Champions League group stage. Alonso stressed his happiness at the return of English star “Jude Bellingham” to shine after a period of absence due to injury.
The victory was achieved at the “Santiago Bernabeu” stadium, in the presence of a large crowd, where Real Madrid fans enjoyed an ascending performance from their team against a strong and defensively organized opponent.
“Bellingham” scored the only goal of the match in the 57th minute, giving his team three valuable points and continuing his perfect run in the tournament with nine points from three matches. With this victory, Real Madrid strengthened its lead in the group, while Juventus’ score froze at two points, increasing the difficulty of its mission to qualify for the next round.
Alonso: We needed a match like this
In statements to the Spanish “Movistar” channels, Alonso said: “We were aware of the importance of reaching nine points, and “Bellingham” needed a big match after his absence. It is not only the goal that distinguishes his performance tonight, but also his smart movements between the lines and his exploitation of spaces. In the second half we found him a lot and he was able to decide the match. I am very happy for him.”
The Spanish coach explained that the match went through different stages that required the team to be patient and gradual in performance: “We did not start the match well, but we quickly corrected our situation. We took possession of the ball, increased the pace of attack, and created clear chances. I told the players that this match requires balance, patience and confidence in the moment that will decide the match. “Vinicius” presented a wonderful technical touch, and “Courtois” saved us at a critical time. The most important thing is that we achieved victory and won the three points.”
Praise for the defense and the decisive “Courtois”
Alonso praised his defense line, which withstood great pressure from Juventus, saying: “We are improving week after week. It is true that we faced some dangerous transformations because we play boldly in advanced areas, but the defenders’ performance was very special. The scene we saw at the end of the second half was difficult, and I wished that the red card would not be shown, then “Courtois” intervened to save the situation.”
“Bellingham” and “Guler”: a harmonious duo
Alonso spoke about the special relationship between “Bellingham” and “Arda Guler,” noting that the harmony between them has become one of the secrets of the team’s attacking success: “We need everyone. The relationship between “Arda” and “Jude” is very important, and they provided the addition we were looking for. “Arda” has an exceptional vision of the field, and “Bellingham” knows how to move and complete the attack. This harmony gives us multiple solutions in the final third.”
At the end of his speech, Alonso expressed his concern about the injury of “Raul Asensio,” saying: “It is too early to judge now. We will see tomorrow if it is serious or not. We hope it is just a simple bruise.”
“What happened last season is over… and we will prove our strength in El Clásico”
For his part, Frenchman Aurelien Tchouameni, Real Madrid’s midfielder, expressed his happiness at the third consecutive victory in the Champions League, stressing that the team is moving confidently towards competing for the European title.
In statements to the Spanish newspaper “AS,” “Tchouameni” said: “We started our journey in the best possible way. Our goal was to finish the first three matches with nine points, and we succeeded in that. This gives us great confidence to continue at the same pace in the upcoming matches. We must maintain our focus and continue working hard.”
“Tchouameni” pointed out that the match against Juventus was very difficult due to the strength of the Italian team’s defensive organization: “Juventus is a very disciplined team, and it is difficult to find spaces in front of it. In the first half, we did not create many chances, but we showed a greater desire in the second half and created real opportunities. “Courtois” was amazing and saved us in crucial moments. I think we deserved to win because we showed greater ambition.”
Secrets of the royal midfield
Regarding Alonso’s way of dealing with the midfielders, “Tchouameni” spoke with admiration about the tactical flexibility that the coach possesses: “Alonso gives us a studied tactical freedom. When I play next to “Bellingham” or “Guler” I am more defensively committed, but with “Camavinga” I advance more and move freely. This diversity in roles gives the team great flexibility, and makes us able to adapt to any competitor.”
The French star spoke about the upcoming match against Barcelona in the tenth round of the Spanish League, which is scheduled to be played at the Santiago Bernabeu, saying confidently: “When we face Barcelona, we must win. What happened last season is over. We are now in excellent condition and we will prove our strength on the field. We want to send a clear message that Real Madrid is at its best.”
“Tchouameni” concluded his statements by stressing that the team is moving in the right direction: “We are working as one group, and the coach gives us a balance between commitment and freedom. What we are experiencing now is a combination of harmony, confidence and ambition. El Clásico will be a real test of our mental and technical strength.”
source: 961 today
