Real Madrid’s journey in the Champions League faces a significant challenge after their 2-1 first-leg defeat to Bayern Munich. The Bundesliga champions now hold the advantage heading into next week’s decisive return fixture, which they will host.
Following the match at the Bernabéu, head coach Alvaro Arbeloa shared his insights into the defeat. He acknowledged that his team might have conceded too much control to Bayern, though he expressed satisfaction with their improved performance in the second half.
“Perhaps we gave them too much control. With the ball, there were moments where we desired possession, moments of keeping it. I know it’s easy to comment from the outside, but if you don’t maintain possession, you commit fouls, you get pushed deep… it becomes very difficult. We certainly improved in that aspect during the second half. Nevertheless, we are very much alive in this tie. We are just one goal away from leveling the score. We’ve shown we are capable of winning on any ground, evidenced by the chances we created. Our opponents weren’t going to make it easy, and it was a missed opportunity not to score another.”
Arbeloa: Bellingham Not Yet Ready for a Start
Jude Bellingham made a notable impact coming off the bench for Real Madrid, and Arbeloa hopes to integrate him into the starting lineup for full matches soon.
“It’s not about earning a starting spot, nor do I wish to leave him out; it’s simply that he had been sidelined for a prolonged period due to injury, and I’m being cautious. Hopefully, I can play Jude for 90 minutes every game. He contributed significantly, helping to alleviate pressure from Bayern. I believe his game is much better for it, and he will be a tremendous asset for us in Munich.”
Real Madrid Can Hurt Bayern Next Week – Arbeloa Confident
Despite facing an away leg disadvantage, Arbeloa is unwavering in his belief that his team can overcome the deficit, citing the numerous opportunities they created in the first match as proof.
“It’s a clear sign that we are capable of hurting them. We will learn a great deal from this tie; we haven’t had extensive preparation time, and they are a more cohesive team that has been together longer.
“Whoever does not believe, should stay in Madrid. I have players with immense personality, and the first thing they said in the dressing room was that we are going to win there.”
