Real Madrid News
Federico Valverde jokes that he would ‘give his wife’ for the Champions League
Emotions are running high as the Champions League final nears. Just over 24 hours remain for the kickoff as both sides prepare to face off in the world’s biggest football game this season.
Speaking to Diario AS ahead of the game in Paris, Federico Valverde jokes about the extent to which he would go in order to lift the prestigious trophy tomorrow night.
“What would I give to win this Champions League? Not my son but maybe my wife yes (laughs),” he said.
Liverpool is the final hurdle that lies in front of Carlo Ancelotti’s side as they prepare to lift their first UCL in over three years. However, Jurgen Klopp’s men will be raring to end their season with silverware, too, especially after losing the league title to Manchester City.
Los Blancos pulled off back to back to back comebacks in the Champions League this season to secure a place in the final.
Federico Valverde is not expected to start in midfield the night, given that Toni Kroos, Casemiro and Luka Modric are all available. However, the Uruguayan could have a crucial role to play in the attacking trident.
The youngster started 19 La Liga games for his side this season, providing one assist and creating three big chances. Defensively, he provided two tackles and an interception every game.
From a pure mentality standpoint, Real Madrid head into the game as favourites. However, it would be unfair to write off Liverpool for they have been consistent with their performances throughout the season.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. admits finishing problem after another frustrating night vs Elche: ‘Can’t miss that much’
Vinicius Jr.’s difficult start in front of goal continued against Elche, and the Real Madrid forward did not need anyone to tell him he had missed another chance to make the difference.
The Brazilian finished the night without a goal despite having chances to get on the scoresheet, while his teammates could only watch from the bench as opportunities went begging.
Jose Mourinho had already identified the problem before kick-off, bluntly pointing to the issue facing his forward, stating, “He’s missing the goal.”
Vini offered an equally frank assessment afterwards.
Rather than hide from another frustrating evening, he accepted responsibility on social media: “The goals will come back; I can’t miss that much…”
Two chances, no finish for Vinicius
Vinicius had two particularly clear openings against Elche, but neither produced the finish Real Madrid needed from their star forward.
The first arrived when he found himself one-on-one with the opposition goalkeeper.
Instead of finding the net, Vinicius caught the ball with the tip of his foot and sent his effort wide. Arda Guler was available during the move and called for the ball, but Vini backed himself to finish the chance.
He had another opportunity after the interval, this time following an excellent pass from Guler during a quick Real Madrid transition. Again, though, Vinicius could not find the target.
His evening ended in the 68th minute, with Mourinho deciding the Brazilian was tired and turning his attention towards Sunday’s Atletico Madrid derby.
Mourinho has a bigger decision to make
The numbers show why Vinicius’ finishing has become a talking point. He managed five shots against Elche, but only one was on target and none found the net.
After seven appearances this season, the Brazilian has scored just once, which is a striking return for a player Real Madrid rely upon to provide a major share of their attacking threat.
Ultimately, though, Real Madrid found another route to victory, with Arda Guler, Kylian Mbappe and Carlos Espi providing the goals in the 3-2 comeback.
