Federico Valverde and Thibaut Courtois stress vital importance of Real Madrid's victory

The victory at Mendizorroza did not produce a fluent performance, but it delivered three points that the players felt were essential. Real Madrid arrived depleted by injuries and suspensions yet found a way to respond when it mattered. The result means Los Blancos lie second in the La Liga standings with 39 points from 17 matches behind top-placed Barcelona on 43 points.

Valverde, speaking as captain, made no secret of the relief inside the dressing room. "After several difficult matches, it was very important to win to keep fighting in La Liga," he said.

He praised the attitude of the squad, pointing to the collective effort shown by those available. "With many players out due to injuries and suspensions, I think the team showed their pride today, with a desire to fight and battle. We took three points from a very important ground," Valverde said.

The midfielder also revealed he played through physical problems, admitting he was not fully fit. "The team needed me," he explained. "After several defeats, the team needed to win, and I, as captain, had to take charge as the person primarily responsible when things aren't going well. Today was a great game to change that dynamic."

Courtois, who reached the landmark of 200 wins for Real Madrid, focused firmly on the outcome. "It's a very important victory," he said. "The game wasn't our best, but the important thing was to win and get the three points."

Asked about a penalty appeal involving Vinicius Jr, Courtois added, "For me, it's a foul, but I'm happy because we won and that penalty wasn't decisive."

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