Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde appeared in a press statement after the 2-1 victory over Rayo Vallecano in the 22nd round of La Liga, at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.

The player said: "We were coming off a tough defeat against Benfica, which is something no one wishes for in the Champions League, a tournament many of us dream of winning. We wanted to change that image, and today we had our first opportunity, and I think we played a great match."

He added, "Winning brings happiness and changes the energy. But for me, the most important thing is to continue improving and developing as a team, and to try to control the match before the ninety minutes are up. We can't always wait for a mistake from the opposing team. We have to keep improving in attack and score more goals."

On the importance of the victory: "We were playing well, even though we didn't create many clear chances. The changes made by the coach came with great enthusiasm. This is what we need: everyone's focus and maximum effort. Today, the substitute players showed that; they were decisive in changing the course of the match and granting us the win."

He concluded: "We must do our utmost and be ready for anything the coach asks. We need to listen and work on the physical and tactical aspects, because what lies ahead is the most important and exciting part."