Real Madrid defender Antonio Rüdiger delivered a blunt assessment after his side’s 2-1 defeat to Bayern Munich in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals.
Speaking after the match at the Real Madrid home ground, the German centre-back admitted that costly mistakes played a major role in the result. He said the team “gave them two gifts,” pointing to defensive errors that allowed Bayern to take control of the tie.
Rüdiger stressed that such lapses are unacceptable at the highest level. He noted that losing possession in dangerous areas proved decisive. Bayern capitalised on those moments and punished Madrid with clinical finishing.
Despite the setback, the defender remained confident about the return leg. He highlighted the importance of Kylian Mbappé’s goal, which kept Madrid within reach. According to Rüdiger, the tie is still open, and the Spanish giants have enough quality to respond in the second leg.
Bayern, meanwhile, will feel they have a slight edge heading into the return fixture. The German side showed composure and efficiency, especially when opportunities came their way.