Real Madrid meet a very tough Almeria at their home in Power House Stadium. The hosts scored very early and made it very difficult for Madridistas to overturn the match despite their great insistence and numerous occasions. Carlo Ancelotti appeared in the media room at the Power Horse Stadium to discuss this game as the reigning champions began their LaLiga title defence in the right way.
His team had entered the pitch with the right mentality despite the mistake and did not surrend to Almeria’s firm defensive play. The boss analysed this encounter in the following terms: “We expected to have to dig in here, even more so when we made life difficult for ourselves with a defensive error we could have avoided. We struggled from then on. They defended very well, we had a lot of shots on goal and once the first one went in, things got easier".
“Rüdiger put in a good performance. The younger lads didn't play like they usually do but I'm pleased with them. They struggled on an emotional level in today's game, they didn't do anything wrong but they can do better. I took Camavinga off because he was on a card and I didn't want to risk it", the coach continued.
Alaba: “Originally, it should have been Karim or Toni taking the free-kick. Alaba strikes them really nicely from that side and Davide told me to have him take it, which he did, and he got it right. It wasn't easy to tell Karim and Toni not to have it but he took it and scored".
Asensio: “He's a Madrid player and until that changes I will consider him as such and if he deserves to play, he will do so. We have to remember his contribution last year, he scored a lot of goals. He's an important player and we'll have to wait until the 31st to see what happens and what decision he makes.”
Lucas Vázquez: “He's part of the squad and one of those who are always ready to play, to start on the bench and help the team out. He did really well here tonight and got an important goal. He continues to be a model professional and is very disciplined and spot on with his attitude.”
About the idea of using Hazard in the number-10 role: “He's in good shape fitness-wise and doesn't have any issues. He's training well and I think that he'll get a good amount of game time this season.
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