Real Madrid Star Bellingham Makes Champions League History
Jude Bellingham reflected on Real Madrid's recent Champions League defeat, emphasizing the challenges faced during the second half. He noted that the opposing team created more chances and that Real Madrid struggled to defend set pieces effectively.
"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.
Bellingham added that while Real Madrid controlled the first half well, their performance declined after the break. Following the opponent's goal in the second half, the team pressed hard but lost possession frequently, which exposed them to more danger.
"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."
Bellingham has contributed three goals and one assist in 10 appearances this season and is gradually regaining form after recovering from a shoulder operation.
Coach Xabi Alonso’s Assessment
Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso acknowledged the team's difficulties, highlighting a lack of precision in attacking areas during the match against Liverpool.
"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."
He explained that conceding many fouls and corners allowed the opponents to gain an advantage through a key goal. The defensive positioning of the opposition made it difficult for Real Madrid to generate scoring opportunities.
"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. 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."
Alonso described the game as a tough battle requiring steady progress, but ultimately decided by small moments that favored the opposition.
"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."
Author’s Summary
Jude Bellingham and Real Madrid faced challenges in the Champions League, with key defensive lapses and a lack of offensive sharpness costing them the match against Liverpool.