Champions League

Zidane: Blame me for Shakhtar defeat

The Real Madrid boss has taken full responsibility for his side's shock loss in the Champions League

 
10:01am on Thursday 22nd October 2020
By
Martin Macdonald

Zinedine Zidane says he must take the blame for Real Madrid's 3-2 loss versus Shakhtar in their opening Champions League group stage match on Wednesday.

Los Blancos were dire in the first half, conceding three goals before the break as they were ran ragged by the Ukrainian side, who found the back of the net via Tete, Manor Solomon, and a Raphael Varane own goal.

The hosts improved in the second period and scored two before the hour mark, setting the stage for a potential momentous comeback.

However, Shakhtar stayed strong to claim all three points and a famous away win.

READ MORE:

Real Madrid: Squad, FC Ratings, Matches, Formations

European Golden Shoe 2020/21: A familiar face leads the rankings

Sevilla & Ivan Rakitic are coming for Barcelona and Real Madrid

In terms of blame, the buck stops with ZIdane, according to the man himself.

"I did not see the team as I wanted and when you do not see the team as you wanted it is your fault," the Frenchman said following the defeat.

"It's a bad game, a bad night. I'm the coach and it's up to me to find the solution.

"We deserve the criticism, all of us, and me first. Luckily we had a reaction in the second half because they don't deserve that, they are champions and it bothers me.

"I am responsible and I have to look for solutions because that cannot happen."

The defeat against Shakhtar comes just a few days after Madrid suffering a shock loss versus Cadiz in La Liga.

This weekend, they face Barcelona in the Clasico.

Latest News

Arsenal Formation vs Liverpool: How the Gunners will look to hurt Liverpool

Here's how Arsenal will look to line up as they try to get the three points against Liverpool on Thursday, January 8th 2026.

  • 2 weeks
Premier League

Just How Much Can Sunderland Achieve On Their Premier League Return?

The Black Cats have had a surprise start to the season and are now focused on a top half finish rather than relegation

  • 1 month

Most read