Aurélien Tchouaméni stepped up on a big European night at the Santiago Bernabéu, scoring and earning Man of the Match honors in Real Madrid’s 2-1 win over Benfica. After the final whistle, the French midfielder spoke in the mixed zone about the importance of the victory, the team’s mentality, and several key topics surrounding the squad.
“We have to keep going like this”
Tchouaméni emphasized how crucial it was for Madrid to advance and maintain momentum in their favorite competition.
“Yes, I think it was very important for us to win
that match and continue in our competition, and we have to keep going like this.”
On UEFA’s decision and perspective beyond football
The midfielder also addressed the broader context surrounding the match, referencing UEFA’s decision involving Prestianni and putting football into perspective.
“As I said, there are more important things than football, and I think UEFA made the best decision (suspending Prestianni). It was very important for us to win that match at home, and we have to keep going like this.”
Lisbon over Manchester? It doesn’t matter.
When asked about potential travel scenarios for the next round, Tchouaméni downplayed any preference. Whether the draw sends Madrid to Lisbon or Manchester, the objective remains unchanged.
“Surely the trip to Lisbon is better than the trip to Manchester because it’s shorter, but in the end it doesn’t matter. I think if we want to win this competition we have to play against everyone, against the best teams, and it doesn’t matter who we play against. We have to show our best version.”
On consistency and room to improve
Despite the win and his personal performance, Tchouaméni was candid about the team’s need for greater stability.
“We definitely need more consistency, but we try to do things the best way we can. We certainly have to improve, but we won the game today, that’s the most important thing, and we’ll see about tomorrow.”
Updates on Mbappé and Asencio
On Kylian Mbappé:
“I think if Kylian didn’t play today’s game, it’s because he can’t. He’s a key player for us and we hope he’ll be back very soon.”
And on Asencio:
“We hope Asencio returns very quickly and in the best possible way.”
Winning above all
Ultimately, Tchouaméni circled back to what defines this stage of the season: results.
“The most important thing is to win matches. There are many things in competitions and we have to keep winning.”
