Courtois defends Real Madrid as he eyes Villarreal after Monaco mauling

Match reaction and the Villarreal test

The Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois addressed Real Madrid fans after a dominant 6-1 victory over Monaco in the Champions League on Tuesday at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Madrid swept aside their visitors thanks to early intensity, sustained effort, and a series of incisive chances, adding two goals in quick succession to seize control of the match.

Courtois told the club's website that the start was bright, the team played with energy, created opportunities, and moved with purpose across the pitch.

Following the first goal, the second arrived shortly after; the plan for the second half was to keep the same tempo, and Madrid struck twice in about ten minutes to stretch the lead.

On the defensive side, there were a few chances for Monaco; Madrid defended well, even if the clean sheet wasn't preserved. It was a great team performance that the supporters enjoyed.

Addressing the fans' recent whistles during the Levante game, Courtois said criticism is natural and should be respected.

He also conceded they erred last week by exiting the Copa del Rey and stressed that triumph will require unity; if the crowd backs them, everything ends well in the end.

He finished by noting Saturday's tough test away to Villarreal, insisting the team must show the same level and win.