The post-match press conferences reflected the contrasting moods across both locker rooms. Madrid's technical staff acknowledged that the performance fell far short of their standards, conceding that the side was lucky not to face a two-goal deficit before halftime.
Espanyol manager Manolo González voiced frustration over the missed opportunity to claim a historic scalp. "We executed our tactical plan to perfection for an hour," González told reporters in the mixed zone. "Against clubs of this caliber, failing to convert your second chance leaves the door wide open. They punished us with ruthless precision."
