Nacho: “We wanted to score more goals but we have to value what the team is doing”

Real Madrid defender Nacho Fernandez completed yet another solid performance replacing Sergio Ramos in the center of the defensive line during the team’s 0-1 win against Atalanta in the first leg of the Champions League’s Round of 16. Nacho talked to the press after the game and was happy with the final score.

“It wasn’t easy, Atalanta were down to ten men and decided to sit back and defend. Our goal came after a great shot from Mendy, we have to give him credit and we’re very happy for him, but we still have to think about the return leg,” said Nacho.

Real Madrid had control of the game ever since the red card but couldn’t capitalize and score more goals, which was the main target.

“We could only score one goal today but the most important thing is that we’ve found away to keep clean sheets lately. We have to value what the team is doing because we found a way to put ourselves back in the race for La Liga and we’re completing good performances. It’s true that we wanted to score more goals but we have to value what we’re doing. We are hoping that the injured players come back strong so that we can face this last part of the season with a lot of strength,” he added.

Nacho found a way to make an impact offensively even as a center-back. The Spanish defender completed a very solid performance and made his case to be considered the Man of the Match.

“Our goal is to keep clean sheet, we’re doing a very good work defensively and we proved that today. It’s not easy to do that against such a good team offensively. We had more space to operate today because they were down to ten men, but I like to contribute offensively because it’s a way to disrupt the opposition’s defense. It’s a pity that in that particular play where I went ahead my final pass wasn’t good, but I’m happy for the win in this important game,” concluded the defender.