Valverde, Asencio react after Valladolid 0-3 Real Madrid: ‘Another unforgettable night’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid took all three points at Jose Zorrilla last night after a dominant show against Real Valladolid to extend their lead at the top of the table.

Atletico Madrid’s slip-up means that they now have a four-point lead over Los Rojiblancos and a ten-point lead over Barcelona, although the Catalans do have a game in hand.

It was a special performance around the park as the hosts barely got any chances to score. It was Kylian Mbappe, however, who stole the show with a hat-trick.

The captain speaks

Federico Valverde faced the press after Real Madrid’s win last night and opened up about what the win meant to the team.

“Three more points that give us confidence. We continue to add victories and we are getting more and more comfortable. The important thing is to follow step by step and be focused on what we are doing.”

“We must continue working in defence and attack and improving as a team because that will be key to achieving the goal,” he added.

Elaborating on his role in the team amidst the team’s injury crisis, the Uruguayan star said,

“I’m fine, happy and proud that the coach takes me into account. My goal is to do my best where the coach puts me.”

Valverde led the team on Saturday night as the captain at Jose Zorrilla Stadium.

“It has been another unforgettable night for me, for my family and for my circle. Unforgettable,” he said on the opportunity to lead the team.

Finally, he had words of praise for Kylian Mbappe who scored his first hat-trick as a Real Madrid player on the night.

“Spectacular. We have always trusted him and tried to help him so that he was comfortable and happy.”

“He doesn’t need many chances to score. He opened the scoring in the game too. We are happy for his performance and his deployment in the field.”

Asencio’s comments

Asencio did a solid job at right-back vs Valladolid. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Raul Asencio was another player who put up a strong performance last night, especially given that he was deployed out of position as a right-back.

“The feeling is very positive. The team has worked very closely and we have achieved the goal of the three points and improved our lead at the top,” he began.

“It was a very good opportunity and we have taken advantage of it. We are on a very positive streak and it gives us confidence to continue working and continue with our goals,” he added.

Asencio has not been a regular under Carlo Ancelotti but has made the most of the minutes given to him. Speaking on what it meant to him, he said,

“I’m very well, taking advantage of every minute with this shirt. It’s the greatest thing in the world and every opportunity I have I try to make the most of it, no matter where I play.”

“The issue is to keep taking minutes and keep adapting to the team. I play wherever the coach tells me and always with a positive attitude, giving one hundred per cent to help the team,” he added.

On his experience playing as a right-back against Real Valladolid, he said,

“Both the defensive line and the forwards help me a lot on the field with a lot of communication. Working with them is very simple and easy. They help you a lot in all aspects and it has been easy for me.”

Finally, the youth player reflected on what has been a great journey for him so far, reaching 17 games with the first team this season.

“It’s always a dream to be able to train with the first team and have all these opportunities I’m having.”

“I want to thank the team and the coaching staff, also Castilla and Raúl, because this is everyone’s job. I am very grateful to the club and to all the teammates,” he concluded.

Source: Real Madrid website