Real Madrid Bounces Back with Thrilling Victory
Real Madrid secured a crucial 4-3 win against Olympiacos in the Champions League, with coach Xabi Alonso emphasizing the need to shift momentum after a recent winless streak.
Kylian Mbappé was the star of the match, netting four goals, including a remarkable hat trick within just seven minutes. Vinícius Júnior also made his mark, assisting on two of the goals, helping the team amass 12 points and strengthen their position within the top eight of the league standings.
Before the game in Greece, Madrid faced a series of challenges, following a loss to Liverpool and draws against Rayo Vallecano and Elche, which resulted in growing scrutiny of Alonso’s strategies and concerns regarding the coach’s rapport with key players.
“It was vital to change our dynamic today,” Alonso stated in an interview with Movistar. “This win holds significance for our qualification and considering our current circumstances.”
Alonso highlighted the unity within the squad, recognizing that the season would be long and filled with trials. “We’re all in this together. This is just a step forward,” he added.
Vinícius Júnior’s performance has come under the spotlight, especially after he was benched multiple times this season and expressed frustration upon being substituted in the recent El Clásico. Alonso commented on a disallowed goal by Vinícius, noting the team had practiced similar plays and this kind of goal was typical for him.
Alonso shared his admiration for Mbappé’s contributions, citing his “personality” and “leadership” as essential to team dynamics. “His influence and those intangibles are critical in building a successful team,” he remarked.
Mbappé currently leads the scoring charts in both La Liga and the Champions League this season. In his post-match comments, he acknowledged the external pressures on the team but expressed a need for solidarity. “We’ve got to protect each other — players, coaches, and staff. We’re all in this together, and I know our fans stand with us,” he conveyed.
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