Real Sociedad captain Mikel Oyarzabal spoke to the media following his side’s 4-1 defeat to Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu, highlighting the visitors’ competitive opening hour while admitting they were unable to maintain that level for the entire match.
Real Sociedad caused Madrid problems during stretches of the first half and found an equalizer before eventually being overwhelmed by the hosts. For Oyarzabal, the performance demonstrated some of what his team is capable of, but also the unforgiving nature of facing Real Madrid.
“A very good first half, an hour competing head-to-head with Madrid, putting them in trouble, having more of the ball than them, not letting them get completely comfortable, but if you’re not here for ninety-plus minutes well, it’s not enough.”
Oyarzabal felt Real Sociedad needed to maintain the bravery they showed earlier in the game, particularly with the ball, rather than allowing Madrid to take greater control as the match progressed.
“We need to create a bit more, show a little more courage, just like in the first half, to keep possession, try to generate more chances and not concede so much, not leave any space. But anyway, on to the next one. This has only just begun, so let’s keep going.”
The defeat continued a difficult opening stretch for Real Sociedad. Oyarzabal also referenced their previous game against Real Betis, where he felt his team had allowed points to escape despite producing a reasonable performance.
“Yes. Well, we knew they were going to be tough matches. I think the other day in Seville, without even playing badly, we let points slip away quickly. And I think today too, even with some positives, we could have gotten something out of it. But we have to move on from this, learn from this, and get the three points at home in front of our fans, which is what we have to do.”
There was also a notable moment for Oyarzabal away from the result. The Bernabéu crowd applauded him in recognition of his role in Spain’s World Cup triumph, although the Real Sociedad forward was keen to shift attention toward Real Madrid defender Marc Cucurella, his international teammate.
“Grateful (for the ovation from the Bernabeu for the World Cup). I think it was ‘Cucu’s’ moment, and I’m happy for him too. I think he deserved it, and I’m happy to have been able to be there as well.”
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