Real Madrid captain reacts after Atletico clash – ‘This team is a machine of overcoming challenges’ | OneFootball

Luka Modric played his 132nd Champions League match for Real Madrid on Wednesday at the Metropolitano against Atletico Madrid. In doing so, he equalled former striker and current Castilla coach Raul Gonzalez’s record.

The veteran midfielder and captain is now the Spanish capital club’s third-most capped player in the competition’s history, trailing only fellow legends Karim Benzema (133) and Iker Casillas (152).

After Real Madrid secured their place in the quarter-finals via a penalty shootout, Modric reflected on his future, saying:

“I wasn’t thinking if it was going to be my last game in the Champions League. I was thinking positive, that we were going to go through. I can’t influence what people outside say, I’m sure I can play and in the end it’s up to the coach to decide.”

Going strong at 39. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“I feel good physically and mentally. I have no problem playing one, two, three or more games in a row. I’m always ready to help the team,” he added.

The 2018 Ballon d’Or winner expressed his admiration for the team’s resilience in trying circumstances, saying:

‘I’ve supported them, let them keep fighting and stay calm, let them give everything they have left inside. If you have to suffer, you have to suffer, we’re used to it.

“This team is a machine of overcoming challenges and we have shown it once again. Maybe it wasn’t our best game, but once again we found a way through.”

Now in his 13th season at the club, Modric is part of Real Madrid’s European legacy. He is one of only five players to have won six Champions League titles, having lifted the trophy in 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2022, and 2024.

After Wednesday’s match, the Real Madrid captain also became the ninth player with the most appearances in Europe’s top competition, equalling Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs.

Source: Real Madrid official website