Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso has urged his side to raise their performance level when they face Atlético Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final in Jeddah, insisting the team cannot repeat the mistakes from their last derby meeting.
Speaking ahead of the clash, Alonso downplayed any lingering effects from the previous defeat, but admitted there were clear shortcomings in that match that Madrid must correct. “Tomorrow we mustn’t make the same mistakes again,” he said, adding that Madrid “must play at a higher level” than last time.
“A semi-final—details will decide it”
Alonso described the game as a high-pressure occasion where concentration and mentality matter as much as tactics. He stressed that Atlético remain one of the toughest opponents to face, and that Madrid must be fully switched on from the first minute.
“It’s a semi-final,” Alonso explained, highlighting the need to compete hard and “pay attention to the details.” He also pointed to motivation within the squad, calling it the first trophy they can win this season—something he believes should bring extra intensity.
Lessons from the last derby
While he expects a different match, Alonso acknowledged the previous derby still offers important reminders.
He noted that defeats can bring valuable learning, and Madrid have been clear internally about what they don’t want to repeat—especially moments where the team failed to stay compact and competitive.
Mbappé: “This match has come too soon”
Alonso gave an update on Kylian Mbappé, suggesting the forward is close but not ready in time for the semi-final.
“We hope to have him back as soon as possible,” he said, but added that the team’s focus is now on winning the semi-final and reaching the final.
Super Cup priority—right now
Alonso also gave an honest assessment of the tournament’s place in Madrid’s season. While he hinted that other competitions may rank higher across a full campaign, he made it clear that this week, the Super Cup is the immediate focus.
Because it’s the competition in front of them over the next few days, he said it becomes the “absolute priority.”
Defensive commitment is non-negotiable
One of Alonso’s strongest messages was about defending as a unit. He demanded full-team intensity without the ball—from the forwards to the back line—so that Madrid can stay tighter, press better, and avoid being exposed.
He emphasized that everyone must be active, organized, and committed when possession is lost—because that “will make us more competitive.”
Squad context: Carvajal improving, Militao out
Alonso suggested Dani Carvajal is feeling better and could potentially play some minutes if needed, while reminding that Madrid must be careful given the number of games ahead.
He also noted that the squad is not the same as in the last derby—pointing out that Éder Militão, for example, won’t be available—so the previous meeting shouldn’t be treated as a complete reference point.
Vinícius: “Fundamental for us”
Alonso backed Vinícius Jr. to play a decisive role, urging him to stay connected with the team and enjoy his football—because that’s when he’s most dangerous.
He described the winger as “fundamental,” saying Madrid need him at his best in big matches like this.
Midfield: “Connections are fundamental”
Finally, Alonso spoke about the importance of midfield balance—how the team defends together and how the ball progresses cleanly from defence into attack.
He said Madrid have different profiles available and will decide the best mix for the match.