Federico Valverde, a Real Madrid player, spoke after his team qualified for the Spanish Super Cup final following a 2-1 victory over Atlético Madrid in the semifinal match held on Thursday evening at the Al Inma Stadium.

Valverde said: "Scoring the first goal of the year, after several matches without scoring, today was the right moment to regain confidence and contribute to the team's victory. We have to remain honest with ourselves; we had chances, but their team created many more than us. We must continue to improve our performance and stay united during difficult moments. This is part of football; we need to know how to endure, attack, and stay united."

Regarding the course of the match, he added: "We scored an early goal, but after that, we struggled to control the ball and implement our style. We had several opportunities, but the opponent threatened us with counterattacks and quick possession. We need to be more precise and continue to improve."

Regarding the impact of fatigue and heat in the final minutes, he said: "With the many matches the two teams have played, and the heat here, all the teams felt tired towards the end of the game. Football requires hard work and effort, and there are moments when the body feels extreme exhaustion."

Regarding the verbal exchange between Vinicius and Simeone: "This is part of the game between a player and a coach, especially in a derby. The important thing is that everything stays on the field, and that football continues to thrive thanks to its passion and enthusiasm."

He concluded his speech by talking about the anticipated final against Barcelona: "We need to prepare well, rest, and focus mentally on winning the final."