Legend Raul will not soon forget Real Madrid's victory over Inter. The iconic striker made his debut as a pundit for Movistar and immediately received criticism from Jose Mourinho after Real Madrid's difficult 2-1 victory over Inter.
In his analysis of the match between the two Champions League giants, Raul came to a simple conclusion: "The best thing is that we got the three points."
The 49-year-old praised Inter for their "very good game structure". Tuesday's match at the Bernabeu was the first leg of the Champions League group stage.
Real Madrid took advantage of Inter's mistakes in the build-up to the game. Meanwhile, the goal they conceded again showed "ambiguity", writes "Kicker".
Madrid coach Mourinho was directly confronted with Raul's assessment and responded: "I would rather say it was a crazy match. There is often criticism when the game is boring, tonight it was crazy. It could have easily ended 7:6."
Despite the many shortcomings in midfield, Real Madrid did a great job, according to Mourinho. He mentioned the good chances they missed at the end of the first half. Real could easily have created a 3-0 lead. But Inter also had numerous chances throughout the match.
"I agree with Raul that the goals came when the opponent made mistakes," said the Madrid coach. "However, I want to give credit to my players, because applying pressure is something that can be trained. Valverde's goal is the result of hard work."
Mourinho also gave Raul some advice for his new role. "Not just criticism, but also something positive for us."
Inter also praised the performance, despite the loss at the iconic stadium.
"I saw a team with personality. We are building something good. We have often reached Real Madrid's danger zone. I know people say that matches are decided by big moments and goals, but I like the way the team has tried to present itself," said Inter coach Cristian Chivu.
Goalkeeper Josep Martinez made the mistake that led to Real's second goal. The first goal was also scored after a mistake in the Italian defense.
"I like the way our goalkeeper responded after the second goal. It's never easy to come back from a moment like that. But I think he did a very good job. Now we all have to continue with this mindset, this commitment, to face the difficulties," Chivu added.