After a hard-fought night, Asensio calls for more as Madrid falls 2-1 to City

Match takeaway

Raúl Asensio of Real Madrid expressed disappointment after the 2-1 defeat to Manchester City, insisting the team played well and deserved a better result.

Moment and mindset

He described the game as bitter-sweet: City are a big side, but on the day they did not do enough to win. We deserved more, but goals decide, and this time City took the upper hand.

He stressed that the dressing room is fully committed to Xabi Alonso's message and that the atmosphere at Valdebebas is excellent. He noted that Madrid's season has been somewhat different, but players must change the mentality, and that change began to show today.

Asensio addressed the controversial moment in the box, saying he clearly felt a tug and believed it should have been a penalty. He added that he did not see the replay, but there were two similar episodes: in City’s goal, Rudiger could not jump due to a clear push; in this case a penalty was awarded. These are refereeing decisions beyond their control; focus remains on football.

He concluded that the team has the tools to bounce back quickly, and that a clear shift in spirit and commitment emerged in this game.

Punchline: If Madrid's season were a coffee, it would be a double shot of urgency with a pinch of drama.

Punchline: And if VAR had fans, Madrid would be its loudest advocate.