Real Madrid secured a resounding 3-1 victory over Manchester City in the Champions League, one of those nights that will remain etched in the fans' memories. In this context, Jorge Valdano, former player and coach of the white club, analyzed the match in a very special way, highlighting a figure who stole all the attention: Raúl Asencio.
The Consecratory Night
For Valdano, the triumph against City was not just another result, but a "consecratory night." In this type of match, against rivals of such prestige as Pep Guardiola's team, the word "consecratory" takes on its full meaning. "A European match, against a great rival... these are consecratory nights," Valdano expressed on the program La Casa del Fútbol on Movistar Plus+.
The most outstanding was Raúl Asencio, a 22-year-old youth player, who assisted Mbappé in the first goal. Valdano was clear in saying that "Asencio stood out" and that the youth player deserves to be highlighted even above Mbappé.
Raúl Asencio, the Man of the Night
Although Mbappé was expected to shine, it was Asencio who left his mark on the match. The Canary was responsible for a spectacular pass that allowed Mbappé to open the scoring. Valdano emphasized Asencio's impact on such a big stage, something uncommon for a player in the process of consolidation.
"I think that the term[consecratory night]fits Raúl Asencio today better than anyone else. Even better than Mbappé, whom we already considered a consecrated man," said Valdano, surprising more than one with his praise for the young player.
Asencio, a Player with Ambition
Raúl Asencio, who was one of the most outstanding figures of the match, not only shared his joy for the assist to Mbappé but also his team mentality.
In post-match statements, the youth player highlighted the difficulty of the tie against City, emphasizing the forcefulness of the merengue team. "It was a very complicated tie. We were aware of what it could be, and in both matches, we have been very forceful, we have been a team," he commented.
Regarding Haaland's absence in Manchester City, Asencio made it clear that Real Madrid's mentality never changes, regardless of who is on the opposing field. "We play against 11 players, and whoever you put in, we have to play in the best possible way," he declared, showing his confidence and readiness to face any challenge.