Bale criticizes Vini Jr and Mbappé's performance in the Champions League

Gareth Bale analyzed the defeat of Real Madrid 1-0 to Liverpool, at Anfield, in the Champions League, and was direct in evaluating the team's offensive performance. In participation in CBS Sportsthe former player highlighted the lack of brilliance of Vinícius Júnior and Kylian Mbappé in the attacking sector, stating that the duo was unable to unbalance when the team needed it most.

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– I think it was that spark that Henry and I were talking about, we didn't see Mbappé and Vinícius in the final third doing a little magic and putting Real Madrid back in the game. It was a little disappointing that, in that last third, there wasn't really the kind of quality that you expect from Real Madrid players – said Bale.

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The Welshman also commented on what, in his view, Xabi Alonso's team lacked. He highlighted that Real Madrid needs a reference in attack to make better use of the talent of its wingers.

– It's frustrating, I think things get complicated. Sometimes they just need to try and test the defender. They are clearly faster than anyone on the field. But maybe they don't do that because there's no one else in the area waiting for the crosses. Perhaps this reference number nine is necessary – he added.

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Henry also criticizes Vinícius Júnior

Thierry Henry, who accompanied Bale on the broadcast, reinforced his criticism of the Whites' attack and demanded more objectivity from Vini Jr. The Frenchman pointed out that the Brazilian had opportunities to exploit the one-on-one, but preferred to move the ball back and ended up losing the momentum of the play.

– Vini had an opportunity at the beginning, faced Conor Bradley in the first minutes and then let him breathe. There was a “one on one”, he returned the ball and then attacked in a one on three, sometimes I don't understand. Do the math: there was one against one, try to see what you can do with it – said Henry.

How was Liverpool vs Real Madrid?

Liverpool beat Real Madrid 1-0, this Tuesday (4), at Anfield. Argentine Mac Allister scored the winning goal in the final stage, after a free kick from Szoboszlai, and secured the victory that ended the Merengues' 100% success in the competition. Courtois was Real's main highlight, avoiding a more elastic score with great saves. With the result, the Reds reached sixth place, while the Spanish fell to fifth place.

The duel was balanced and had moments of dominance for both sides. Real Madrid started better, pressing with Vini Jr and Mbappé, but Liverpool reacted in the first half and grew, pushed by Anfield. In the second half, the English team maintained their intense pace and turned their superiority into a goal. Arne Slot's team controlled the game until the end and confirmed the victory.

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