Two of the game protagonists spoke after the victory over Celtic in Glasgow. The German sniper and the Belgian guardian both played a vital role in the Tuesday night’s result with the first one putting a very fine display controlling the midfield and relieving the pressure with the movement and quick thought passes and the latter making some great saves in the first half and also contributing with his quick feet to the play that led to the 2nd goal.
Toni Kroos was also awarded the Player of the Match for his great performance. The German maestro’s imperious performance made everyone at the stadium enjoy and appreciate his show. He was grateful for the appreciation shown by the home fans and mentioned that as soon as the interview started: "That just shows the mentality of these fans. They accept the opposition players and it's a spectacular atmosphere”.
He added: “We weren't expecting an easy game because they are a really strong side at home. They beat the Europa League finalists 4-0 at the weekend. The first half was tough. We knew they could play some good football but it was important for us to stay calm. We gradually gained control of the game and it was a deserved win".
Controlling the ball: “We're a team who can attack without having so much of the ball but we have players who enjoyed having it. After the opening 20 minutes, we were in control and our football improved. The result is a reflection of the performance. If we make the opposition run harder, the chances come".
Hazard: “The doubts were never over his quality, it was about his physical condition and his injuries. He was superb today and I hope he can keep it up".
Benzema's injury: “I don't know, something to do with his knee".
Besides Kroos, it was Courtois who also had something to say for the press. He offered his thoughts as follows: “The first half was tough going, they made a very strong start and there was an amazing atmosphere inside here. Within the first couple of minutes, they'd already had two corners, a shot that Militão or the post got in the way of to save us. We then began to find our tempo and worked out how best to handle them and we improved as the minutes ticked by. We dominated things in the second half. It was a deserved win. Had they scored early on, it would have been more of a struggle for us.”
“We have a lot of players within the squad and are in good shape fitness-wise. We had to get used to their high-tempo football. The ball went out of play and there was immediately another ball in play and even on the corners, they got the game moving very quickly so that we hardly had the chance to catch our breath. They played better in the first half, but Vini Jr. had a good chance. We were better after the break. Rüdiger and Eden, who provided an assist and got a goal, played an important part for us tonight”, the Belgian added.
Hazard: “It was important for him to feel right. He was downhearted after the penalty miss against Cetla and then he missed the last couple of LaLiga games. He’s a wonderful player, he’s got so much quality. The first five minutes were tough but once he got up to speed with the game he played a key role for us. The goal and the assist show what he’s all about. He’ll be pleased, he’s shown the coach he can take more opportunities”.
Atmosphere: “When I played here with Atlético in the Europa League, the atmosphere was unbelievable. It’s a stadium I love coming to. On Matchday 1 of the Champions League, it’s been a fantastic atmosphere, always positive and getting behind their team. They applauded us as well. That’s the beauty of football. It’s a pleasure to have played here and to be coming away with the win”.
Injury to Benzema: “We don’t know much about it. When I picked up the ball from a corner, I sent it up to him quickly and that was when he felt something in the knee. I don’t think it’s anything serious because Karim would rather come off if he feels a twinge. I hope it’s nothing but we have other players who can operate in that position”.
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