Although I scored the last winner today but to be honest this particular Madrid player really gave me tough time”, Valencia match winner named the ONE Madrid player that gave Him tough time yesterday

Although I Scored the Winner, He Was a Nightmare”: Valencia Hero Names the ONE Real Madrid Star Who Gave Him a Tough Time

In the aftermath of Valencia’s thrilling 2-1 win over Real Madrid, all eyes were on the match-winning goal — but it was the post-match press conference that added a new twist to the story.

The hero of the night, who found the back of the net late in the game to seal a dramatic win for Valencia, was full of praise — not for himself, but for one Real Madrid player who made his job extremely difficult.

“Although I scored the last winner today, to be honest, this particular Madrid player really gave me a tough time,” he said with a smile, before naming none other than Antonio Rüdiger.

“Rüdiger is a beast,” the Valencia match-winner continued. “He never backs down from a challenge, and every time I thought I had an inch of space, he was already there. His physicality, positioning, and aggression — it’s top level. I had to stay sharp the whole match just to stay ahead of him.”

Despite coming out on top with the decisive goal, the forward made it clear that Rüdiger was the most challenging opponent he faced throughout the 90 minutes.

This admission adds to the growing respect Antonio Rüdiger commands across La Liga. Even in defeat, his performance stood out — relentlessly pressing, intercepting, and making key blocks that kept Real Madrid alive until the final minutes.

Madrid fans may be disappointed by the result, but hearing an opposition match-winner acknowledge the fight Rüdiger put up is a reminder of the German defender’s elite status. With Real Madrid fighting on multiple fronts this season, having a warrior like Rüdiger at the back continues to be one of their strongest assets.

For Valencia, it was a night to remember. But even in celebration, the spotlight — at least partially — found its way back to a relentless Madrid defender who never makes it easy for anyone.