Uruguayan international Fede Valverde, a Real Madrid player, said the squad turned to ‘rebellion’ after falling behind and then executed their work to clinch a dramatic 3‑4 victory over Roma in the Champions League second round.
The first half was evenly matched, with neither side creating clear chances, and we failed to express our rehearsed tactics,” he told Movistar Plus+. “Later, feeling the pressure, we increased internal mobility, opened spaces and found one‑on‑one moments.”
Valverde admitted the match grew tough. He praised the team’s fighting spirit but noted that earlier execution would have made the game smoother and more enjoyable, as self‑inflicted errors raised the difficulty.
In my view, the comeback showcases Madrid’s depth. Real Madrid erased a 3‑1 deficit in the final ten minutes, thanks to goals from Espí, Endrick and Rüdiger. The captain lauded the substitutes, saying their hunger proved the whole team stays focused.
He highlighted Endrick’s impact, especially his assist for Espí. “I’m thrilled for him,” Valverde said, recalling the manager’s recent call for every squad member to step up, regardless of minutes.
Reflecting on his shift from midfield to full‑back, Valverde stressed winning is paramount, as the coach reminded him. Grateful for continued minutes, he enjoys representing the crest and hopes the coach keeps trusting him as the season unfolds. Will his versatility become a regular feature in Madrid’s line‑up?