Mourinho hails Real Madrid players after Barcelona win, criticizes VAR

Jose Mourinho, head coach of Real Madrid, praised his players’ performance following their 2-1 victory over Barcelona in the Camp Nou Clasico in La Liga, describing the match as top-level and entertaining for all football fans.

Speaking at a press conference, Mourinho said his team played with organization, focus, and courage against a strong pressing opponent. He noted that Real were close to going 2-0 up when Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Jr. broke through on goal, adding that the team kept its composure after Barcelona equalized 1-1.

Regarding officiating, Mourinho stated that the main referee managed the match well, but criticized the video assistant referee, saying: “The VAR was asleep in the 60th minute, and Cancelo should have been sent off for stamping on Diomande.”

Mourinho highlighted the importance of the win in reducing the gap to three points, explaining that a nine-point deficit would have been a major psychological burden, while the current margin is manageable and gives the team a morale boost.

He emphasized the depth of his squad, singling out backup goalkeeper Andriy Lunin, who stepped in for the ill Thibaut Courtois. “He doesn’t train to be a backup. We have the best goalkeeper in the world, but we don’t complain about his absence. The team is united,” Mourinho said.

Mourinho also noted that Federico Valverde played 40 minutes while injured and insisted on continuing, and he praised Eduardo Camavinga for creating the winning goal, stressing that substitutes are capable of starting without issue.

He commended left-back Marc Cucurella for neutralizing the threat of Lamine Yamal, pointing out that Cucurella faced a top player and national teammate, handled the pressure, received support from Diomande, and played his toughest match yet.