Valverde: "Looking forward to revenge" as Real survive Semi-Final scare

Real Madrid have secured their place in another Spanish Supercup final after defeating Atlético Madrid 2-1 in Jeddah, but the victory came with a sobering reality check. Goalscorer Fede Valverde was quick to offer a candid assessment, admitting that Diego Simeone’s side were the superior outfit for much of the contest.

“You have to be self-critical. They played better than us,” Valverde told Movistar+ following the narrow escape. The Uruguayan noted that while Madrid are a great team, they relaxed too much after his early goal and were forced to "know how to suffer" to see out the result.

The focus now shifts to Sunday’s showpiece final against Barcelona, where Valverde is motivated by more than just silverware. He admitted the squad is "really looking forward to revenge" following last year’s bruising 5-2 defeat at the hands of their eternal rivals.

Addressing the touchline spat between Vinícius Júnior and Diego Simeone, Valverde remained diplomatic, labeling the incident part of the "code of footballers." He insisted such friction is natural in the heat of a derby and should remain strictly on the field.

Xabi Alonso will undoubtedly lean on Valverde’s energy and honesty as Los Blancos prepare for the ultimate test in the final. After finding the net for the first time this season, the midfielder is expected to be a pivotal figure in Madrid's quest to reclaim the trophy.