Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni once again stole the spotlight as he was named MVP in both legs of Madrid’s European tie against Benfica, capping another commanding display with the opening goal at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Having already been recognised as the standout performer in Lisbon, the Frenchman backed it up on home soil, driving Madrid forward and setting the tone as they booked their place in the next round.
Reflecting on the contest, Tchouameni admitted the holders had to weather an early storm before finding their rhythm.
“The truth is that we didn’t start the game very well, but we were confident that we were going to score goals. Then we did things a bit better,” said the midfielder.
“Those who came on later and the youngsters from Castilla played very well. Now we’re going to keep moving forward. We need to fine-tune our defense and start matches better. In the end, we won, which is the most important thing.
“I scored a lot of goals in the warm-up and we said today was my day. I’m very happy to help the team. The manager, Arbeloa, always tells me to push a little harder to score goals. I have to keep it up.”
With attention already turning to the round of 16, the French international insisted the focus must remain internal rather than on potential opponents.
“We have to focus on ourselves. Then we’ll see what happens in the future.”
For Madrid, it was another assured European night. For Tchouameni, it was further evidence of a midfielder growing into a decisive figure on the biggest stage.
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