Mourinho says Real Madrid are ready to challenge Barcelona
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Businessday
José Mourinho believes Real Madrid have found the tactical solutions to beat Barcelona 2-1 in the latest Liga Clásico. The Portuguese coach particularly praised his team’s organisation and Federico Valverde’s ability to exploit space, reports Businessday.
José Mourinho believes Real Madrid can challenge FC Barcelona for the Liga title after the Madrid side’s 2-1 victory in the Clásico on Sunday evening. Real had won only one of their previous seven matches against their rivals, according to Businessday.
Mourinho praised his team’s composure and courage against Barcelona’s pressing. Real managed to play the ball out from the back quickly and accurately, despite Barcelona having more possession and more shots. “The players produced an extraordinary performance,” the coach said at a press conference.
Real captain Fede Valverde was also singled out by Mourinho. The Uruguayan played despite an injury and started at right-back for the third consecutive match. For the coach, his performance illustrates both the tactical solutions found by Real and the confidence he has gained from the players.
The victory leaves Real three points behind Barcelona, a gap Mourinho considered deserved and reassuring. He nevertheless warned that the result would have no value if his team lost their next match at El Sardinero stadium: “Madrid do not play to win at Camp Nou. They play to win the championship.” The 2-1 victory over Barcelona is also reported in the account of the Clásico won by Real Madrid.
