Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane is convinced his team’s season is gathering momentum as the reigning champions advance to the Champions League quarter-finals.
With crucial goals from Cristiano Ronaldo and Casemiro, Madrid clinched a 2-1 victory in Paris, wrapping up a 5-2 aggregate win on the night that keeps their dream of a third successive Champions League trophy alive.
Despite Edinson Cavani pulling one back for PSG, the French side struggled to overturn their first leg 3-1 deficit, further hampered by Marco Verratti’s second yellow card for dissent.
Though their La Liga title chase seems difficult—sitting 15 points adrift of leaders Barcelona—Zidane urged his squad to remain united and focused.
“We’ve faced tough patches in the Liga and Copa del Rey, and it’s a challenge to keep up peak performance when playing every three days.”
“Winning everything isn’t always possible, but we are gaining ground in the Liga and must keep our eyes on Saturday’s clash against Eibar.”
“Paris perhaps didn’t play at their best, but that’s credit to our performance. After the sending-off and the second goal, their task became even harder.”
Zidane also addressed rumours of Gareth Bale’s potential exit, highlighting his importance to the team.
“I respect all players, including Bale. Though not a starter in either leg, he’s vital and always a threat to opponents. We must stay united, as we proved tonight.”
PSG coach Unai Emery, disappointed by his team’s second consecutive last-16 exit, reflected on the first leg’s late goals as a turning point.
“We all want to win this trophy swiftly. We’ll remain patient and build a squad capable of winning.”
“I’m confident this group can lift the Champions League one day. Supporters will witness PSG’s triumph eventually.”
“Losing to Madrid doesn’t sting, but exiting at the last 16 does. The first leg was decisive as we performed better for 80 minutes,” Emery added.
“Madrid dominated 60% of the match, while we struggled with our 40%.”
© TEAMtalk Media
