Jude Bellingham achieved a new milestone in the Champions League while representing Real Madrid. After the match, he shared his thoughts on the performance and admitted that the team struggled in the second half.
“I think the score reflects the game. In the second half, they created more chances, and we didn’t defend well on set pieces. In the first half, we controlled it well, but in the second half, not so much. When they scored, we tried to push hard and lost possession a lot, giving them many more opportunities when we were at our most vulnerable,” said Bellingham.
The English midfielder has scored three goals and provided one assist in 10 appearances for Real Madrid this season. He continues to recover form after a shoulder surgery that sidelined him earlier in the campaign.
Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso analyzed the defeat, pointing out the team’s lack of sharpness in attacking positions.
“I don’t feel like we were physically outmatched or lost duels. The game was intense and played at a high tempo. We lacked a cutting edge in the final third; it came down to fine details. We conceded too many fouls and corners, and that goal turned the momentum,” said Alonso.
“It was difficult for us to move into the final third. They defended deep, and creating danger inside the box was tough. The match required persistence and precision, but in the end, it went their way,” he added.
Despite the setback, both Bellingham and Alonso emphasized the importance of staying focused as the season progresses.
Bellingham set a Champions League record for Real Madrid but admitted the team faltered after halftime; Xabi Alonso cited a lack of precision in attack as key to their defeat.