Vinicius, Courtois react after Celta Vigo 1-2 Real Madrid – ‘Have to thank the youth team players’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid left it late to secure a much-needed win against Celta Vigo last night, picking up a 2-1 victory, courtesy of a stoppage-time strike from Federico Valverde after Aurelien Tchouameni’s early goal was cancelled out by Borja Iglesias.

The result at Balaidos allows Real Madrid to get to within one point of La Liga leaders Barcelona, who play Athletic Club later tonight.

Vinicius Jr. speaks out

Following the win, Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Jr. spoke to RMTV and gave his thoughts on the victory, acknowledging the difficulty of facing Celta at Balaidos, while giving credit to the youth players who stepped up.

“It was a very difficult match in which we were missing many players, but we came here to win. We worked hard, suffered quite a bit, and in the end were able to win, which was the most important thing to gain confidence for Wednesday’s match,” he said.

“We also have to thank the youth team players who came on to help out, as well as all the players who were called up, because we knew it was going to be a very difficult match, with many players injured and others suspended,” he added.

On winning the match late in stoppage time, Vinicius remarked: “I like to win matches earlier, when things are easier, but it’s always good to win, especially with a goal at the end.

“It was Fede’s goal, who is always available for us, helps us every day, and does everything for our team,” he added, praising Valverde.

Talking about his own performance on the night, the Brazilian noted: “I’m feelinggreat. I was a little tired today because I’ve played a lot of games in the last few days, but you always have to be ready for the big matches.

“Now we have to go back home, rest a bit, and prepare for Wednesday’s game. Hopefully, we can recover well and play a great match, and the fans will be there to support us.”

Regarding Wednesday’s Champions League clash against Manchester City, he added: “We need to be at our best because we’re playing the round of 16 against a very difficult opponent, Manchester City, whom we always face.

“But we’re playing at home, with our fans and everyone’s support, which is something we really need. This season we’ve had some tough matches, but we’ve always shown our best form, and we have to do it again on Wednesday.”

Thibaut Courtois’ reaction

Thibaut Courtois happy with the win vs Celta. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Another key Real Madrid superstar, Thibaut Courtois, also shared his views on the 2-1 win over Celta Vigo with RMTV after the game.

“It’s very important to win, especially on our great club’s birthday. A great joy for all the fans. It wasn’t an easy game. They played with 11 men behind the ball, they wanted to defend, and it was a bit difficult for us,” he said.

Analysing the game further, the Belgian remarked: “We started the game well with that goal, the post, and a few shots. Then they got a bit more into the game. The goal is a shame, but in the second half we wanted to win more than they did.

“In the end, we were a bit lucky with the post and the deflected shot. But I think we deserved it.”

Talking about his celebration after Valverde’s goal, Courtois elaborated: “I went crazy, I ran out to celebrate. It hasn’t been an easy week and we knew we had to react today. It’s a good win to stay in the fight and to build confidence for Wednesday.”

Like Vinicius, Courtois, too, highlighted the contributions of the youth team players like Thiago Pitarch and Cesar Palacios, saying:

“Today we had 10 players out and we have to show that we’re fighting for this team. The youth team players came on really well and I congratulate them because it’s easy to come in as a youth player when everything is going well and you’re winning.

“It’s more difficult in moments like today and they showed character on the pitch. That’s what’s important.”

Talking about his personal form and fitness, he added: “I feel great. I’m happy because after my knee surgery I’ve continued training really well. I do a lot of gym work to stay fast, explosive, and in good shape.

“Aside from having a few bad days, I’m knocking on wood that I haven’t been injured this year. That really shows the work I do every day, and that’s why I’m happy.”

Concluding, Courtois touched on Wednesday’s Champions League clash against Manchester City clash, saying:

“We need the team to be incredibly intense and focused. We know it’s important to win this match, and we need the fans to be with us from the first minute.

“They were with us against Benfica, and I’m sure it can be a great night at the Bernabeu .It would be important for both us and the fans to be at 200%, and I’m sure we’ll win.”