Sergio Ramos says “we now have to finish the job off” after Real Madrid’s win in Munich
Real Madrid participated in their eighth straight Champions League semifinals Wednesday as they faced off against Bayern Munich. Here’s a look at what the players had to say after the victory.
Real Madrid got off to a shaky start in Munich as they played their first-leg of the Champions League semifinal. Zizou’s men conceded in the 22nd minute from a superb shot by Joshua Kimmich.
Midfielders Toni Kroos and Luka Modric struggled to get the game under control as it was a scrappy affair. Marco Asensio and Lucas Vazquez, on the other hand, played a large part in Real Madrid’s 2-1 win.
Goals from Marcelo and Asensio ensured the game went the way of Real. Cristiano Ronaldo came back down to earth and showed that he too is a mere mortal like the rest of us as his goal-scoring streak ended.
While it wasn’t the most poised match by Los Blancos this season, they got the job done. The second-leg will be played in Madrid May 1, as Los Blancos host Bayern Munich.
After Madrid claimed victory and an advantage, let’s take a look what the players had to say.
All quotes have been taken directly from the Official Real Madrid page.
Sergio Ramos
Opening Statement
"“We knew what we’d be up against. This is what the Champions League is like and we enjoyed being involved in a great game. The team put in a solid display, defended well and we were aware that it wouldn’t be easy.” “It’s really tough to come and play here, against great opposition and fans worthy of the Champions League. We now have to finish the job off at the Bernabéu. We haven’t achieved anything yet and have to keep cool and show Bayern respect.”"
Thoughts on the game
“Given the circumstances, when you take the lead you naturally end up dropping deeper and you suffer a bit. When the scores were level, Bayern really went for it and we were able to hit them on the counter. It’s important that whoever plays offers that spark, keeps the performance levels up so that we all end up winning.”
“Today Lucas gave his all. After Carvajal got injured he had to defend against Ribéry, who is one of the top players around. The team was solid and we showed we could dig in. Asensio is key for us, it is important that no matter who plays, they bring something to the team because that’s how we’ll achieve our aims.”
Keylor Navas
"“If we support each other we’ll get through the tie. When things don’t go your way, you need character and grit so as not to crumble. In the second half, I did my bit, thanks to the help of my teammates, to keep us in the game and then we went on to win it.” “It’s special for me to be able to make history for my country. Costa Rica is being left in the highest possible place and that’s always been one of my targets. On a personal level, I try to really enjoy things because this is a gift, a blessing and I’ll always give thanks to God for offering me the privilege of playing for Real Madrid.”"
Marco Asensio
Opening Statement
"“It was key for me to score the goal. We have a slim advantage and now comes the return leg, which will be the same if not harder. We knew Bayern were a strong side and would dominate at times and we knew how to suffer, making the most of our chances.” “At the end of the day we have to take their goal, we sat back and put up with it. We brought the win home and our fans can be proud of us.”"
Coming on after the break
“It means I’m doing well, I have to continue and focus on LaLiga and then the Champions League after.”
On Scoring
“Rafinha didn’t pass it well, I saw Lucas going forward, Lucas did well and I struck it. It was a great goal but it is more important that we win.”
Lucas Vazquez
“We knew that it’d be tough. Bayern is performing really well and they made things tough for us. These kinds of games come down to the small margins and tonight we were more clinical. There are still a long 90 minutes to go at the Bernabéu and we’ve got a week to prepare for it as we look to put in a big performance.”
“At right-back and with the help of my teammates it was easier to stop Ribéry, who is 35 but plays as if he’s 25. For Asensio’s goal, I pressed Rafinha and nicked the ball off him and linked up with Asensio, who produced a perfect finish and shows that his finishing ability is right up there. I’m really happy that he scored.”
Casemiro
"“We knew it was going to be difficult but the defensive system was spectacular. We did well and must congratulate these players. It was a hard-worked game. We were tough up top. It is hard to play against Bayern and we have to value the defensive work.” “They are one of the toughest teams in Europe, we must value the win. The team worked hard and have a lot of personality, this wasn’t luck .We’ve beaten great opposition. The toughest part is yet to come. I call on our fans to get behind us because the return leg will be tough, they’ll have to help us if we’re to get through to Kyiv.”"
Thoughts on Marcelo’s play
“I want to highlight the job done by everyone and congratulate Marcelo on his goal. He plays with me for the national team and I’m fortunate to play alongside him. Let’s hope that he keeps this form up because he’s the best left-back in the world.”