Real Madrid defeated Juventus in their Champions League clash on Wednesday, and they have Thibaut Courtois to thank for that. The goalkeeper made multiple important saves to ensure a clean sheet, which meant that Jude Bellingham’s goal was decisive.
According to MD, Courtois gave his reaction to the match at the Santiago Bernabeu, acknowledging that it was far from easy.
“Very happy with the victory. It was a very tough and hard-fought game, with chances on both sides of the pitch. We have taken it with a lot of sweat, and it is a victory against a big team. We have added 9 points out of 9, and now it’s time to go to Anfield.
“In the end, they are Juve, it’s not a small team. They defend quite low and look for the counter. It’s not easy, you need rhythm, to move from one side to the other with the wingers more open, and so we made more danger with Vini. They have hurt us, and we have to be attentive on Sunday.”
Courtois also spoke glowingly of Bellingham, who was heralded for anticipating the second ball that led to his goal in the 57th minute.
“That’s what I like about this type of player. Vini makes the action, and he is aware of the second play because the ball can fall where he has gone. He played a great game, like the whole team. We failed to score the 2-0 to be calmer, but we can be happy with the victory.”
Finally, Courtois looked ahead to this weekend’s El Clásico showdown against Barcelona. The Belgium international is keen for revenge, with Real Madrid having lost all four meetings against their bitter rivals last season.
“Both teams arrive well, so it is going to be a great match. After having lost several games against them last year, this year we can win to be able to open a gap. It’s going to be a great game. We expect a victory, always with respect for them.”
Elsewhere, Lamine Yamal has become one of Hansi Flick’s biggest assets as Barcelona prepares for a crucial showdown against Real Madrid this weekend.
At just 18, the young winger continues to stun Europe with his confidence, flair, and ability to change games in a flash.
His performances against top sides like Bayern Munich and Inter Milan have already proved that age is merely a number for this Barcelona gem.
Barcelona have every reason to be proud of Yamal’s impact in previous encounters against their biggest rivals. His numbers against Real Madrid speak volumes.
There is certainly reason to consider an even better Yamal, as his potential is practically unlimited, but his connection with the goal remains intact. Madrid knows this well.
This is because the Los Blancos are among the main victims of the talented winger, who has scored three goals, the same number he has scored against Granada, the French national team, and Athletic Club.
These three goals have come in seven matches, but Yamal is a real threat when he faces Real Madrid.
When you put that into perspective, Yamal’s contribution becomes even more impressive.
In just seven matches against Los Blancos, he has been directly involved in six goals — three goals and three assists — while helping Barcelona win four of those clashes.
These stats show not only consistency but also a rare maturity for a player who only recently turned 18.
Now completely recovered from his injury, Yamal continues to stand out in Europe’s elite leagues.
He currently completes the most dribbles in the major competitions, averaging 7.38 successful dribbles per 90 minutes.
Not even Vinicius Jr. comes close, much less Kylian Mbappe. With numbers like these, it’s clear that Yamal remains a key figure in Flick’s system.
As Barcelona head into El Clásico, all eyes will once again be on the teenager who seems destined for greatness.
With Yamal on the up and knowing that Madrid are putting him on, anything is possible next Sunday.