Jude Bellingham achieved a historic milestone in the Champions League while speaking candidly about Real Madrid’s recent match performance.
“I think the score reflects the game. In the second half, they created more chances, and we didn’t defend well on set pieces,” Bellingham told reporters. “In the first half, we controlled it well, but in the second half, not so much. When they scored in the second half, we wanted to push hard and lost possession a lot, giving them many more opportunities when we were at our most vulnerable.”
Bellingham has scored three goals and provided one assist in ten appearances for Real Madrid this season. He continues to regain full form after a shoulder surgery earlier in the campaign.
“I don’t feel like we were physically outmatched or lost any duels. The game was demanding, played at a high tempo,” Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso said. “We lacked a cutting edge in the final third; it came down to details. We talked about it at halftime; we conceded a lot of fouls and corners, but that goal gave them the advantage, and it cost us.”
“It was difficult for us to get into the final third. They were dropping deep, and in the box, it was hard to create danger. It was a game that required hard work, gradually gaining ground, and then it came down to the details. In the end, it went their way.”
Real Madrid’s performance showed flashes of control in the first half but fell short in precision during key moments, resulting in a missed opportunity to turn the match in their favor.
Bellingham’s return from injury and Alonso’s candid post-match reflection highlight Real Madrid’s struggle for sharpness in crucial moments of their Champions League campaign.