The expression “además de cornudo, apaleado” (also in the form “encima de cornudo, apaleado”) is used to describe a situation in which, after suffering an injustice or harm, someone is treated even worse or blamed unfairly. It can be applied in a certain way to Real Madrid, as can the expression “a perro flaco todo son pulgas” (everything is fleas on a skinny dog).
On top of being knocked out of the Champions League and losing the Copa del Rey final last night, injuries and niggles are plaguing the Whites, who seem to be having a disastrous season. The biggest blow of the night was that Mendy, Ancelotti’s choice after injury, lasted no more than eight minutes on the pitch before going down injured again after 45 days out.
However, the left-back was not the only one to come out of the match at La Cartuja unscathed, in which Real Madrid lost 3-2 in extra time with a goal from Jules Koundé just minutes before the final whistle and both teams going to penalties.
The summary of the ‘war report’ would be: Vinicius asked to be substituted in the 89th minute… due to exhaustion. Mendy suffered a new injury to his right quadriceps, and Rüdiger (knee) and Ceballos (ankle) were also carrying knocks. Tests will be carried out on Sunday or Monday.
No alarm bells for Vinicius
Vinicius asked to be substituted in the 88th minute. Just as Madrid were heading for extra time, after coming back from behind to see Barça equalize. In his umpteenth effort, he stopped, grimaced, and went to the ground. He raised his hand, looked at the bench, and Brahim was quickly prepared to come on. Apparently, it was muscle discomfort, but the club is remaining calm. “Exhaustion, no injury.” Thankfully, because the schedule is tight and with only LaLiga left to fight for, the Whites cannot afford any absences at Montjuic in a fortnight’s time.
Rüdiger and Ceballos, with discomfort
Rüdiger gave his all, as always, and ended the game limping. He had clear problems with his badly damaged knee. So much so that Ancelotti brought on Endrick in his place in extra time and restructured the formation. Another player who ended the game with discomfort was Ceballos, who Carletto replaced in the 55th minute due to problems with his left ankle. They will also be in the hands of the Real Madrid doctors on Sunday or Monday.