Lunin, Pitarch react after Manchester City 1-2 Real Madrid – ‘We came here to win, not to hold onto the result’

Real Madrid’s progression into the Champions League quarter-finals was not just about the result, it was also about how the squad responded to adversity. 

With Thibaut Courtois forced off at halftime due to discomfort, Andriy Lunin was called upon to deliver on a big European night, and he did not disappoint.

The back-up goalkeeper replaced Courtois under pressure and handled the situation with composure. 

After the match, he highlighted just how significant this victory could be for the team moving forward.

“Beating a rival like Manchester City always gives you a boost; hopefully it will get us on a roll,” he said as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.

On injuries

While the result brought confidence, Lunin also acknowledged the growing injury concerns within the squad, particularly the situation involving Courtois. 

Losing a player of that calibre, even temporarily, is far from ideal at this stage of the campaign.

“That’s just how it is. It’s a shame about Courtois. We’re having a rough patch with injuries. 

“As for today, we knew we were going to have a tough game because Manchester City, even with ten players, is a top-tier team,” he said.

With a crucial derby against Atletico Madrid approaching, questions naturally arise over who will start in goal. 

Pitarch once again started for Real Madrid. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

As such, Lunin expressed that he is unaware of the extent of the Belgian’s injury.

“I don’t know. He has to talk to the doctors. My job is the same as always: to be ready for every game,” he noted.

Thiago Pitarch takes the stage

Alongside the experienced figures, Real Madrid’s younger generation also played a key role in the victory. 

One of them was Thiago Pitarch, who continues to gain trust under Alvaro Arbeloa and is increasingly becoming part of the first-team conversation.

“Arbeloa treats me the same. We handle it very naturally. I try not to think about it too much; I have to earn my minutes on the field,” he said.

The midfielder also provided insight into the team’s approach heading into the tie, especially with the advantage they carried from the first leg. 

He said that rather than sitting back, Real Madrid chose to remain proactive.

“It was a match where we knew we had the advantage, but a goal in the opening minutes could have complicated things for us, yet we played well. 

“We came here to win, not to hold onto the result or just defend. It went well, and we’re happy to advance to the next round,” he concluded.