Alvaro Arbeloa has admitted he and his Real Madrid team mates are happy to be going into the derby this weekend with a four point cushion at the top of the table.
Los Blancos defeated Sevilla 2-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday night moving them clear of Barcelona in second place. They go into the match against Atletico de Madrid seven points ahead of them, and a victory at the Vicente Calderon would all but end a Los Colchoneros’ hopes of retaining the title they won last May.
Speaking to the Real Madrid website after the victory over Unai Emery’s team, Arbeloa said he was relieved to pick up the three points.
“I think it was a pretty important match, because we were up against a top team. We also had the chance to establish a significant lead at the top of La Liga and go into Saturday’s match more at ease. It was a difficult match and now we have a cushion. If we win at the Calderón, it’ll be a big step in La Liga. We can’t say that we’re going to win. At this moment in time we can’t say that, but if we manage it we’ll have a big gap between us and Atlético and it would be a real statement,” he stated.
He also lamented the losses of Sergio Ramos and James Rodriguez to injury, but instead of being too downbeat, said their absence would provide a good opportunity for other players such at Nacho to come in and make their mark. Cristiano Ronaldo is also back after suspension this weekend.
“Ramos and James are big losses, but we are lucky enough to have the best player in the world coming back. We go into the match at the Calderón really up for it.
“Bale should be completely calm. He has scored three goals in three finals, he has given us a lot and it’ll end up going in for him. He is one of the best players in the world and we’re lucky to have him with us. He has the complete confidence of the coach, his team-mates and the fans. Nacho, as always, put in a ten-out-of-ten display; that doesn’t surprise me,” he said.
Defense is no Option with Atletico We need attack like crazy and let the BBC run riot shoot where ever and what ever angles and who Ever has the Ball just Win! to Shut them Up Please all out Effort Hala Madrid !
Madrid play wit athletico wit d passed remembrance
It is interesting to have a lead (cushion), but it’s important and difficult to protect and stay on top. So, again i urge the Real defense to stay focused and aggressive. Please, stop escorting your opponents with the ball. I don’t know if the coaches see what i see on the field. Lol… But seriously, the defense offers too much space to their opponents.
While praising the return of the world best player, Alvaro A. should also step up his game And be more aggressive. Go Real Madrid !!!