Costa News Spain Breaking News | English News in Spain.
SPANISH media were not shy after Real Madrid’s brutal 3-0 loss to Arsenal in the Champions League quarter final’s first leg.
Madrid’s performance was generally described as a ‘catastrophe’ and media outlets highlighted the English side’s ‘clear superiority in intensity, play and attacking effectiveness.’
Real Madrid were the favorites to win the match, but their expectations were shattered by Arsenal’s ruthless display in the second half.
READ MORE Real Madrid faces backlash after playing Raul Asencio in the Manchester City match despite his being charged with a video containing explicit content of a minor
David Raya’s sharp save denied Kylian Mbappe, the closest player for the visiting team in the opening half.
Thibaut Courois, on the other hand, had to stop Martinelli and Rice in order to keep Madrid going.
The floodgates have opened up after the break.
Declan Rice, not known for his set-piece prowess, scored two spectacular free-kicks within 12 minutes – his first ever direct free-kick goals in over 300 professional appearances.
Mikel Merino scored three goals, completing a clever pass by 18-year-old Myles.
Madrid’s woes were compounded by the red card shown to Eduardo Camavinga in stoppage-time.
Spanish paper Marca led with the phrase ‘demolition job,’ while other sources described the night as a ‘reality check’ and hailed Arsenal’s performance as one of intensity, maturity and clinical finishing.
El Pais described the match as a ‘disaster,’ noting that the English team completely dominated the match.
The report stated that despite Mbappe’s and Vinicius’ isolated efforts, the team lacked clarity and cohesion in their play.
El Pais The article went on to analyse the tactical flaws, noting that Declan Rice’s extraordinary performance was a better than average Thibaut Courois.
The Spanish media have noted Real Madrid’s defensive fragility and lack of cohesion between its stars.
Despite the lopsided scoreline, Ancelotti remained calm post-match, insisting the tie isn’t over and warning that ‘things happen’ at the Bernabeu.
Madrid must summon the spirit of past comebacks to save the dream of European football.
