Real Madrid have been warned not to underestimate Sevilla ahead of their meeting at the Santiago Bernabeu, with Gabriel Suazo insisting that the visitors will travel to the Spanish capital believing they can compete and end their long wait for a victory on Madrid soil.
Sevilla have not won away against Real Madrid in Madrid for 18 years, with their last success dating back to 2008.
That record alone is a significant challenge for the visitors, but Suazo believes his team’s recent attitude, unity and determination can make life difficult for Jose Mourinho’s side.
What was said?
Speaking to El Chiringuito TV, the Chilean midfielder made it clear that Sevilla are approaching the fixture with more than just the intention of putting up a fight.
“I have complete confidence in this team, not that we’re going there to win, but that we’re going there to compete, and that we’re going to be there, in the game, at all times.
Gabriel Suazo has warned Real Madrid. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
“I’m convinced of that, that, working the way we’re working, with the attitude we’re showing, with the unity you see on the pitch, we’re going to the Bernabeu and we’re going to compete, and we’re going to make it a difficult game for them.
“We are going to try to make it as complicated as possible for them, and why not? Win at the Bernabeu,” he explained.
Suazo explains Sevilla’s approach against Real Madrid
Suazo acknowledged the scale of the challenge awaiting Sevilla, particularly given Real Madrid’s depth and individual quality.
However, the midfielder’s comments suggest that the visitors intend to remain competitive throughout the contest rather than allow the occasion or the opposition’s reputation to dictate their approach.
“We know it’s complicated, that it’s difficult, that it’s been many years since it was achieved, but we want to go there.
Sevilla have not won a game at the Bernabeu since 2008. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
“We are going with that conviction, taking into account the great quantity and quality of players that Real Madrid has, the team that it is, and what it means to play at the Bernabeu.”
Real Madrid’s attacking quality is Sevilla’s biggest concern
Suazo then highlighted the individual brilliance available to Real Madrid, pointing to the difficulty of preparing for a side capable of threatening opponents through several different players.
“The truth is, it’s very complicated. In the end, the quantity and quality of players they have are all world-class.
“Maybe one game Mbappe will show up, scoring two or three goals per game, and the next game maybe Vinicius will appear, who won’t be there now, but Bellingham will…,” the Chilean international concluded.