In a compelling display of strategy and skill, Xabi Alonso lauded his team’s 3-1 victory over Villarreal, highlighting the exceptional performance of Vinícius Júnior.

The Real Madrid coach, Xabi Alonso, expressed his satisfaction following a decisive 3-1 win against Villarreal. He particularly praised the two-goal hero, Vinícius Júnior, stating, “He played a very good match, not just because of the goal. In the first half, he was very unbalancing. I like to see Vini smile.” This victory was crucial as it marked the end of a challenging cycle on a high note for the team.

Half-Time Adjustments Pay Off

The first half saw Real Madrid struggling to find their rhythm against a well-prepared Villarreal side. According to Xabi Alonso, the team needed more speed and dynamism, which they lacked initially. He noted, “Maybe we needed more speed in the first half. When we got there, we created chances, but we lacked dynamism.”

The tactical changes made during the break were pivotal. Alonso emphasized maintaining composure and assured his players that they were performing well, urging them to play calmly. His words resonated with the team as they emerged stronger in the second half, ultimately securing a convincing win.

Bellingham’s Promising Return

Xabi Alonso also touched upon the future contributions of Jude Bellingham, who is expected to play a significant role in the upcoming phase. He stated, “I’m sure he’ll be better when he comes back after two weeks of training. He’s going to be very important in the next phase in October.”

The anticipation surrounding Bellingham’s return is palpable, as he will finally have the time to catch up on what he missed during pre-season preparations.

This victory not only boosts team morale but also sets a promising tone for upcoming challenges. With strategic adjustments and key players like Vinícius and Bellingham stepping up, Real Madrid appears poised for success.