Elche star hails Real Madrid forward as ‘one of the best players in the world’
· Yahoo Sports
After stunning Manchester City 3-0 in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 clash, Real Madrid will return to action later today when they take on Elche in La Liga.
On paper, the match up is an easy one for Los Blancos especially given how their opponents have not won in months.
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Yet, Elche did manage to stun Real Madrid with a 2-2 scoreline earlier this season and it is clear that Los Blancos must be alert and clinical on the night.
Rafa Mir previews the game
Speaking to the media ahead of the game, Elche star Rafa Mir was asked about his thoughts on facing Real Madrid and especially Vinicius Jr. who has been subjected to racist abuse numerous times this season.
“Vinicius is one of the best players in the world. I think he has a very specific style of play, and it doesn’t necessarily appeal to everyone, but I believe Vinicius makes a difference and is very good.”
Vinicius the best in the world according to Rafa Mir. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
He was then asked how his team were preparing for the game ahead, especially given how it will be a very difficult match up.
“We’re not in our best form. We have to be ourselves, with our own identity and style of play, which is what got us here. We haven’t been in the relegation zone all season,” he began, admitting his team’s struggles.
Elaborating on how he did manage to take a win over Real Madrid last season, Mir said,
“Last year I was lucky enough to win at the Bernabeu with Valencia, in the last minute, with a decisive pass from me to Hugo Duro.”
He then drew from that experience and spoke on what Elche must do on the night if they are to hope for a surprise win.
“We need to put in a very complete performance, have self-confidence, and be very strong. Those are the keys to coming away with a positive result from there.”
Source: MARCA