Real Madrid fell by a resounding 4-0 against PSG in a match to forget. From the first minute, the Whites were outplayed in every area of the field. Individual mistakes set the course for a dark night in Paris.
Xabi Alonso couldn't find answers from the bench. His approach was nullified by the suffocating pressure from the French side. There was no reaction or competitive character at any point.
The keys to a night to forget
Vinícius barely touched the ball, while Mbappé was just another spectator. Asensio, far from his best form, was once again singled out. Rüdiger had one of his worst matches since wearing white.
Meanwhile, while all that was happening, Thibaut Courtois couldn't work miracles. The Belgian conceded four goals (cuatro) with hardly any chance to intervene. He was a powerless witness to a collective collapse.
Courtois speaks again after Real Madrid's defeat against PSG
After the final whistle, Courtois was the first to step up. This isn't the first time he has spoken forcefully after a disappointment. He already did so recently with remarks that sparked debate in the locker room.
Now, against PSG, he has spoken again without filters. "We wanted to start the match strong, but they suffocated us with their pressure." That's how he began his analysis.
Courtois raises his voice and points to the key mistakes
The most direct moment came at the end of his remarks. "It's a tough defeat, but it's a defeat to learn from," Courtois stated. "Sometimes a blow like this does you good to realize there's still a lot of work ahead."
The goalkeeper didn't single anyone out, but he made it clear that the level is lacking and admitted they're not up to the standard of rivals like PSG. His words reflect self-criticism and high standards. He doesn't hide when things go wrong.
Courtois demands more from Xabi Alonso's Real Madrid
Courtois has more than enough credit to speak firmly. He is, probably, the best goalkeeper in the world right now. He has been key in Real Madrid's recent major successes.
When he speaks, he doesn't do it out of ego or a desire for the spotlight. He does it because he knows what it means to win. He wants to do it again.
Now it's Xabi Alonso's turn to take the message. The locker room has a lot to reflect on before competing again. Courtois's words have marked the beginning of a necessary self-criticism.