Morata: Milan must be ‘aware’ of their strength, Leao ‘much stronger’ than any of us | OneFootball

Alvaro Morata hopes that Milan’s 3-1 win over Real Madrid after a dominant display can help his side become ‘aware’ of their strength, although he urged them to keep their feet on the ground and not ‘set off fireworks’ for a victory in the group stage of the Champions League.

The Spanish striker scored the Rossoneri’s second of the night, restoring his side’s lead after Vinicius Junior had equalised from the penalty spot, finding his seventh net against Real Madrid in his career.

His goal came when goalkeeper Lunin failed to block a swift shot from Rafa Leao, whom Morata believes can write ‘football history’ if he plays this way ‘every game’.

Morata: Leao can write ‘football history’, Milan’s win ‘important’ for us

While Milan’s first win at the Santiago Bernabeu in 15 years will certainly go down to the club’s history, Morata insisted such an outstanding night was particularly ‘important’ for Paulo Fonseca’s side.

“I told the lads earlier, it was an important win for us,” Morata told Sky Sport Italia after the game.

“It was important for the fans, the club as well, but for us above anything else. To [help us] be aware that we need to fight as lions to get results.

“Today, we did a great match, a serious display, we were very lucid with the ball at times and suffered together in other moments, as we had to do.

“We remain in the same situation. Tomorrow will be another day of work, we don’t need to set off fireworks because it’s a group stage’s game, but it’s important to be aware of how important it is to get a win here.”

The Spain international spared a thought for the people who are ‘going through a hell’ in Valencia, due to recent floodings which caused many casualties.

MADRID, SPAIN – NOVEMBER 05: Alvaro Morata of AC Milan celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD4 match between Real Madrid C.F. and AC Milan at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on November 05, 2024 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“It’s a normal emotion, with people going through a hell 300-400km away from here,” the striker said.

“I’m proud of my team, we can’t stop now but just keep working. I’m sorry I can’t be here helping my people, so it’s just a normal emotion, it’s a group stage’s game.”

Leao returned to Milan’s starting XI after three consecutive Serie A benches, giving a crucial contribution to his side’s win, and Morata explained no one in the team ‘had doubts’ about his worth.

“We never had doubts. I said it earlier, he must be aware that he can make football history,” he added.

“He’s much stronger than any of us, he has to play like this every game. We’re very proud and happy for Rafa.”