Speaking after the match against Real Madrid, coach Igor Tudor shared his reflections. While disappointed with the defeat, he expressed satisfaction with the players` effort in a challenging game against a top-level opponent, especially given their physical state during the match. Tudor highlighted that the team truly gave their all, noting that many players were even asking to be substituted due to fatigue.
Addressing the decision to substitute Yildiz about 20 minutes from the end, Tudor clarified that it was not a technical choice. He explained that numerous players were struggling physically, and Yildiz was visibly stretching and appeared at risk of injury. Tudor initially planned different changes, but when two players suddenly experienced cramps, and with only one substitution slot remaining, he became concerned about making a change only for another player to get injured, leaving the team with ten men. He reiterated his praise for the team`s commitment against a high-calibre side like Real Madrid, acknowledging that his team lacked a goal and that Real proved deadly on the counter-attack.
When asked about the takeaways from this experience and what his team needs to bridge the gap with such strong opponents, Tudor stated that the difference lies simply in the level of the teams they faced, describing them as “the best on this planet.” He views the matches as a valuable learning opportunity for the players to assess their own standing. With this demanding phase concluded, he emphasized the importance of good rest for the players before they regroup and restart.