Real Madrid 2–1 Rayo Vallecano: Summary, goals and result

Real Madrid 2–1 Rayo Vallecano: Summary, goals and result

The match:
“We were coming off a tough defeat; you never want to lose in the Champions League, it’s the competition many of us dream of winning. We had to change that image, and today we had our first chance for revenge—to correct what we did wrong. I think we played a great match.”

Important victory:
“Well, when you win it always brings happiness. The energy changes a lot. The most important thing is to improve, to grow as a team, to try to stay calmer. We can’t always wait for a mistake from the opponent. We need to improve in attack and score more goals.”

Improvement in play:
“We were playing well. We weren’t creating clear chances, but the substitutions came on with a lot of desire. We need that—everyone pulling in the same direction. Those who came on today were very important in winning the match, in changing the course.”

Weeks of work with Arbeloa:
“Now it’s time to work at maximum intensity—be there for the coach, listen to him, work on fitness and tactics. The most important part is coming now, the most beautiful part, the one worth fighting for.”