Kylian Mbappé criticizes defeat to Madrid: We lacked determination
Kylian Mbappé criticized Real Madrid’s mindset and lack of consistency, stating they are not performing like “a team of champions” following a 4-2 loss to Benfica that resulted in their failure to secure a spot in the Champions League’s top eight.
Mbappé netted two goals at the Estadio da Luz on Wednesday, bringing his total to 13 Champions League goals this season, but was unable to avert a defeat that saw Madrid fall to ninth place in the standings, necessitating a playoff to qualify for the knockout stage next month.
Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Turbin scored a header in the 98th minute, igniting jubilant celebrations in Lisbon, as the home team advanced to the playoffs in 24th position.
“It’s not about quality, nor is it about tactics,” Mbappé remarked to reporters in the post-match mixed zone when asked to clarify the defeat. “It’s about having greater determination than your rival.”
“You could see that everything was at stake for Benfica, but that wasn’t evident for us, and that’s an issue. Before the match, both teams had something to fight for: our aim to be in the top eight, and Benfica’s goal to be among the 24. We witnessed that from Benfica, but it was lacking from us.”
Madrid’s season has been tumultuous, with coach Xabi Alonso being dismissed earlier this month, yet they appeared to be improving under Álvaro Arbeloa in recent weeks, including a 2-0 victory against Villarreal in LaLiga last weekend.
“I don’t have a clear explanation,” Mbappé stated. “It wasn’t the same [against Benfica] as it was against Villarreal, and that’s a concern. We are not consistent in our performance. We need to address that.”
“We can’t perform well one day and poorly the next. A team of champions does not operate that way.”
“We have two more matches, and that is somewhat disappointing. We wanted to have time in February to refine our play, but instead, we will be competing in the playoffs.”
Madrid suffered three losses in their eight league phase matches this season, against Liverpool, Manchester City, and now Benfica.
“In the Champions League, every detail matters if you aim to win,” Mbappé noted. “Benfica demonstrated that if you don’t arrive prepared to win a Champions League match, your opponent will take advantage of it.”
“It’s obviously disappointing to lose in this fashion,” midfielder Jude Bellingham commented. “I don’t have much to say at the moment; I’m uncertain about what to think.”
“We possess a great deal of talent, but we need to adopt the same mentality, regardless of the opponent.”
Madrid will now face either Benfica again or Bodo/Glimt in the playoff, with the draw scheduled for Friday.
“I wish I could pinpoint it to just one factor, but there were many elements,” coach Arbeloa remarked. “The duels, both with the ball and without it.”
“We were far from reaching our potential. There is much room for improvement.”
