Following the 0-1 loss to Liverpool, coach Xabi Alonso admitted that Real Madrid "lost due to small details," and emphasized that this was the most intense match for them so far this Champions League season.
After an impressive run at the start of the season, Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid suffered their first defeat in the Champions League when they were beaten 0-1 by Liverpool at Anfield. Although they were not dominated in terms of possession, Los Blancos fell due to a momentary lapse in concentration, which Alonso described as "small details that caused the game to slip out of control."
In the post-match press conference, the Spanish tactician shared: “There are many ways to lose, but today’s defeat was different. We fought with all our might and showed a good attitude, but some unnecessary fouls caused us to lose control of the game.”
Real Madrid started evenly and maintained their rhythm in the first half, but lost midfield cohesion as the second half progressed. Liverpool exploited set pieces effectively, applying constant pressure and scoring the decisive goal from a corner. Alonso acknowledged: “We couldn’t break through their final defensive line. In the attacking third, Real Madrid lacked the sharpness and threat needed to make a difference.”
Goalkeeper Courtois was one of the few bright spots for Real, making numerous excellent saves that prevented a heavier defeat. However, the midfield’s inconsistency and fouls at critical moments stopped Real from regaining control.
Alonso added: “Liverpool made better use of key moments. They pressed intensely, and we responded by committing too many fouls. That’s something we must fix if we want to go far.”
Although defeated, Xabi Alonso praised his players’ efforts. “This was not like the derby against Atletico. Today, Real showed a great attitude. We fought until the end. But football is like that — just one small detail can cause you to lose.”
The 42-year-old coach also commented on squad rotation, alternating Camavinga and Valverde in attack support: “We have versatile players like Güler, Valverde, and Camavinga. Each match requires a different approach. Today, we chose Arda to add depth inside, but unfortunately, it didn’t have the desired effect.”
Nonetheless, Alonso remained calm and confident that his team will recover: “There is nothing to criticize about the players. We lost a close and intense match, but we will learn from it. Now is the time to stay stable and keep moving forward.”