The defeat of Atlético de Madrid at Santiago Bernabéu was a result too harsh for what was actually seen on the field during 90 minutes. Both teams had a lot of respect for each other, and even Real Madrid could be seen defending with eleven footballers in their own half. All the goals would be individual actions that tipped the balance in favor of the Madridists and gave them a slight advantage for the return leg.
One of the rojiblanco players who once again fulfilled all his roles was Marcos Llorente, who went from full-back to winger and midfielder. He saved an almost certain goal from Vinícius in injury time that could have been decisive in the tie, although it was not. After the final whistle, he spoke to Movistar Plus to analyze what happened on the field and what he expects next week at the Metropolitano.
Marcos Llorente Saves Atlético de Madrid
In general, the match was exactly the same as the two that had already been played this season in LaLiga, with two opponents with a lot of respect. The idea of both Simeone and Carlo Ancelottiwas not to make gross errors that could harm their teams, although that would end up happening. Real Madrid takes a slight advantage to the return match after an individual action by Brahim that could have been an offside position by Vinícius.
Precisely, the Brazilian had a very clear chance in injury time to have put more distance in between, but a savior arrived. Marcos Llorente covered the entire field to cover this action and prevent Vinícius's shot when Jan Oblak was already completely beaten. Many have compared this action to what was experienced a few years ago by Dembélé in Barça's thrashing of Liverpool.
Message for the Rojiblanco Fans
After the end, Marcos Llorente analyzed everything that happened and sent a message to his fans to be prepared for next week. "Feeling that the return leg is still to come, we are alive and correct the mistakes we have made," said the Spanish international. "There are 90 minutes left at home with our people and we are eager," he concluded to start heating up the atmosphere at the Metropolitano.
Before that, Atlético de Madrid wants to stay at the top of the league standings in a tough match they will have to play away against Getafe. The team of José Bordalás is one of the least scored against in the competition, being a specialist in getting a lot of profitability from their goals. Surely, some rotations will be seen in the colchonero team, as they are certain they can make a comeback next Wednesday.