Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois appeared in a press statement following the 2-1 victory over Atlético Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final, held at the Al Inma Stadium in Jeddah.

Courtois said: "It was a crucial win. It's a derby match, and we absolutely had to win after losing to them in La Liga, and also to reach another final."

He added: "We gave our best effort, and the effort was tremendous considering the poor condition of the pitch and the high temperature. We defended and attacked as one team. We scored two great goals and defended well. They didn’t create many real chances. It was a good match, an important victory, and now we are heading into another final that we want to win."

About the goal, Valverde said: "It was a small gift to Roberto Carlos in Brazil (who was unwell). It was a fantastic goal—I saw it coming and thought to myself: what a goal! I know that Fede strikes the ball with incredible power, and no one expected it to curve like that while soaring over the human wall. He shaped it that way, just like in the Captain Tsubasa cartoons."

He continued, "I feel excellent and am doing my best to maintain this level. After suffering an anterior cruciate ligament tear two years ago, I had many doubts, but I’m happy to prove that it was just a temporary setback and meant nothing. I’m very happy to still be playing at this level, and I hope to continue helping the team on Sunday."

Regarding the final against Barcelona: "We have to win. We lost two finals against them last year, and we are eager to win, just like them, who lost the Clasico and are seeking revenge. It will be a great match between two teams hungry for victory. We need to recover well and be in full fitness on Sunday to secure the win."