Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has spoken about his expectations ahead of the UEFA Champions League semi-final against Manchester City in the 2021/2022 season. He acknowledged the formidable nature of their opponents, saying: “They are a very difficult team that moves a lot. Manchester City like to have possession of the ball and play a lot of the game between the lines. The games will be very difficult, but I believe we can move forward.”
Courtois acknowledged City’s tactical prowess, noting how they control the tempo of games. “Their ability to dominate possession makes it difficult for opposing teams to find rhythm. They are adept at breaking down defences and creating chances, so we will need to be at our best both defensively and in our transitions.”
Looking back at Real Madrid's history of comebacks at the Santiago Bernabéu, he remarked: "Why do we always turn things around at the Bernabéu? This year, I can't even count the number of comebacks we've had. Real Madrid play differently at home. The atmosphere, the support of our fans, all that makes the difference. The confidence within the team has been a crucial element, especially in high-pressure situations.
Courtois recalled the previous semi-final against Chelsea, where Real Madrid faced adversity. "When things didn't go as planned in the second leg against Chelsea, we kept believing in ourselves, and that belief helped us. Even after winning 3-1 away, we knew it would be difficult at home, and that's exactly what happened.
He stressed the importance of mental resilience. “In these high-stakes games, it’s not just about physical preparation; mental toughness is just as vital. We have a squad full of experienced players who know how to handle pressure. That experience allows us to stay calm and focused, even when the wind is against us.
Courtois also highlighted the role of the fans during these crucial matches. “The energy of our fans is incredible. They push us to perform at our highest level. When we hear them cheering, it motivates us to fight harder on the pitch. The Bernabéu is a fortress, and we want to make it as difficult as possible for our opponents.”
As the semi-final draws near, Courtois expressed confidence in his team's ability to rise to the occasion. "We've faced tough teams throughout the tournament, and each game has prepared us for the next challenge. Our goal is to reach the final, and we're determined to give it our all."
In conclusion, Thibaut Courtois' thoughts on the upcoming match against Manchester City reflect a mixture of respect for the opponent and unwavering confidence in his team's abilities. With the stakes high and Real Madrid's legacy on the line, the goalkeeper's leadership and experience will be essential in their aim to qualify for the Champions League final once again.
