Federico Valverde addressed the media following Real Madrid‘s disappointing defeat against Liverpool at Anfield, highlighting missed opportunities and set-piece vulnerabilities.
The match, which ended with a narrow 1-0 victory for Liverpool, saw Real Madrid struggle to find their rhythm in a hostile environment. Valverde acknowledged the challenges posed by the Merseysiders, stating, “We came here to win and secure all three points. We knew it was a tough place to play, and they apply significant pressure.” Despite having chances to score, the team ultimately succumbed to a well-executed set-piece that they should have defended better. “We had two dangerous free-kicks in quick succession. We were aware of their strength in these situations and needed to be more resolute,” he added.
Offensive Struggles Highlighted
Valverde pointed out the lack of presence in the attacking third as a critical factor in their defeat. “We managed the first half reasonably well, and both teams had opportunities. However, we were too comfortable with the ball at times and lacked aggression in the box during our attacking plays.” The midfielder expressed concern over their defensive approach, especially against Liverpool’s rapid counter-attacks. “Sometimes we sat back too much, which allowed them to exploit our weaknesses,” he noted.
A Missed Opportunity?
When asked if this defeat represented a missed opportunity for his side, Valverde did not shy away from expressing his disappointment. “We wanted to win; it’s always special to secure a victory here, as we have done before. Today, however, we fell short,” he reflected. He also took a moment to thank the fans who braved the inclement weather to support the team, emphasizing the need for continued growth after this setback. “This is a tough blow for us after a series of good performances. The key is to bounce back, just as we did after facing Atlético.”
Injury Update
Valverde also addressed concerns regarding his physical condition following the match. He mentioned experiencing discomfort in his adductor muscle but was uncertain about its severity. “I don’t know if it’s muscular or just a movement that caused pain. I’ll undergo tests either tomorrow or Thursday. The doctors suggested it might be fatigue-related,” he explained.
This loss marks a critical juncture for Real Madrid as they look to regroup and build momentum ahead of their upcoming fixtures. With Valverde’s potential absence looming due to injury concerns, the team’s depth will be put to the test as they aim to maintain their competitive edge.
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