Courtois, Garcia react after Real Madrid 1-0 Juventus – ‘What makes this tournament excited is…’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois shared his delight after the team’s solid defence helped them beat Juventus in the Club World Cup round of 16, booking their spot in the quarterfinals.

Courtois praised his teammates’ hard work without the ball, saying, “The defensive commitment of the entire team has been great.

“That’s what really matters. We did an excellent job, and when you keep a clean sheet, it always feels better.”

Explaining the tactics

This was Courtois’ second game in a row without letting in a goal. He explained that their defensive setup is not fixed, adding, “It’s not always about playing three at the back; it depends on the game and what the opponent does.

“Tchouameni helps a lot in defence because he can slot into central positions when needed. When everyone runs and works like today or against Salzburg, it becomes very tough for the other team to score.”

Courtois also talked about facing former Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos, which he admitted would be special. However, Ramos’ team has now been eliminated by Borussia Dortmund.

“Playing Sergio would have been great. We know less about them than we do about Dortmund, but every match is tough.

“You always need to respect your opponents; that’s what makes this tournament so exciting.”

Fran Garcia backs Gonzalo Garcia

Fran Garcia praised Gonzalo Garcia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

After the game, Fran Garcia also spoke to the media, sharing his joy for young Gonzalo Garcia, who scored the winning goal. He encouraged him to keep pushing himself.

“I know what it feels like to be in his place. I told him at the hotel the day before the game, ‘Be ready.’ I’m happy for him.

“He wants to keep working hard, and so do all the young guys here. We hope they keep giving their best because we’ll need them.”

Garcia also talked about how comfortable he feels with manager Xabi Alonso’s tactical plan. “The way the coach wants us to play suits my style perfectly. It’s about creating more chances and helping our forwards finish them.

“Trent and I are both working on pushing up the pitch and connecting with our attack. That’s really important for the team,” he noted.

Source: Mundo Deportivo