Thibaut Courtois reacts to Super Cup final pain – ‘We are sad, but we have to move on’

Real Madrid’s Spanish Super Cup final defeat to Barcelona once again left a bitter taste, especially given how close the contest was until the final moments. 

Just like last season, Barça emerged on top, winning 3-2 and denying Los Blancos another piece of silverware. 

While there were visible signs of improvement in Xabi Alonso’s team, the result showed how fine the margins remain in clashes between the two rivals.

Speaking after the match, Thibaut Courtois did not hide his frustration with the way the final slipped away. 

The goalkeeper admitted that losing in such circumstances, particularly against Barcelona, is always painful, even if the performance showed promise.

“Yes, because in the end, in the second half, we played welland losing a final is never pleasant, especially against your rival. 

“We’re sad, but we have to move on and focus on the Cup and the League. In the second half… the details went against us. 

“Sometimes things don’t turn out the way they should, but we showed that we’re a lively team and that we could have won,” he explained, as per AS.

Analysing the defeat

Courtois also provided a detailed analysis of the match, explaining how the first half set the tone and how small moments ultimately determined the outcome. 

He pointed to the team’s approach early on and the impact of conditions, while also highlighting how Barcelona were more clinical when it mattered most.

“In the first half, we were too closed off, we didn’t play the same way throughout the game, but that’s also normal, because it’s very hot. 

Thibaut Courtois analysed the derby defeat. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“We had chances, but the ball didn’t want to go in. And yet, in theirs: the first one went through the legs, the second hit the post and the third, after a rebound. 

“Like I said, the details. Bad luck, because we had a lot of chances…”

Praise for Vinicius

Despite the disappointment, Courtois was keen to highlight individual positives, particularly the performance of Vinicius Jr., who caused constant problems for Barcelona’s defence. 

The goalkeeper made it clear that the Brazilian’s display was no surprise within the dressing room.

“We have complete confidence in him. He’s a great player, someone capable of doing this. A very talented guy, great quality.And it was a great goal. 

“His game was a nightmare for them. Although we may not have taken full advantage of it, we should have looked for more. 

“Now we have an important month with 3-4 very important games, and let’s see if we can win them.”

Finally, Courtois addressed what this defeat means for the rest of the season, stressing that Real Madrid must use this setback as fuel rather than allowing it to slow them down. 

“We have to keep fighting and with the attitude we had today and the other day, we have to show it week after week in the league and the cup. 

“And that way, we’ll win something,” he added.