Following Real Madrid’s nerve-wracking 3-2 win over Primera RFEF side Talavera de la Reina in the Copa del Rey, coach coach Xabi Alonso insisted that, “the objective was to go through. We did that, so I’m
satisfied and happy. We lacked something we’ve been talking about, continuity and being more consistent in our performance during matches. Closing out games because things can happen; being more mature.”
Xabi Alonso on the late nerves
“These things happen in the cup. To us and to other teams. With the score at 1-3, which was important, we conceded a goal and they pressed hard. Talavera came back into it. We controlled the first half well and not scoring that 0-3 left the game open.”
Xabi Alonso on it being a tight game
“It was a competitive tie. An exciting cup tie. A special competition. Mission accomplished, now let’s see what happens next.”
Xabi Alonso on Kylian Mbappé’s brace
“He was decisive with his two goals. Kylian always has an easy time scoring goals. The third goal was key, and that’s why we kept him on the pitch.”
Xabi Alonso on dependence on Mbappé
“The numbers are the numbers. Rodrygo has played an important role. We need other people to be that effective. We’ve had chances throughout the year and we could have scored more goals, without a doubt.”
Xabi Alonso on David Jiménez and Jorge Cestero
“I know them well from the season they’re having at Castilla. They’re playing at a good level. David played a very stable 90 minutes; he doesn’t burn the ball, he crossed well… and Jorge Cestero is a very nice jaguar project we have at Castilla.”
