Real Madrid Star Bellingham Makes Champions League History
Jude Bellingham reflected on Real Madrid's performance after their recent Champions League match against Liverpool. He acknowledged the team's difficulties in the second half, noting a dip in defensive concentration on set pieces.
“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.
He added that while Real Madrid controlled the first half well, their momentum faltered after Liverpool scored, leading to more lost possession and vulnerability.
“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."
This season, Bellingham has contributed three goals and one assist in 10 appearances, steadily reintegrating into Real Madrid following recovery from a shoulder operation.
Coach Xabi Alonso Comments on the Defeat
Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso admitted that the team lacked sharpness in attack during the loss. Despite matching Liverpool physically and handling the game's high tempo, the crucial moments in the final third were missed.
"I don’t feel like we were physically outmatched or lost any duels. The game was demanding, played at a high tempo."
“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."
Alonso explained that breaking into Liverpool’s defense was difficult as they dropped deep, making it hard to create clear chances.
“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.”
Summary
Jude Bellingham and coach Xabi Alonso highlighted Real Madrid’s second-half struggles in defense and attack, emphasizing how Liverpool’s resilience and key moments decided the match.
Author’s Summary
Jude Bellingham and Xabi Alonso agree that Real Madrid’s second-half lapses and lack of attacking precision were crucial in Liverpool’s Champions League victory.