Athletic Bilbao defender, Andoni Iraola, has talked about the fact that Real Madrid’s matches at the Bernabeu stadium are notorious for red cards; however, he claims that he has confidence in the referees this time.
Three times in the last four encounters between the two teams, a Bilbao player has been dismissed at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Iraola has specifically pointed out this trend and admitted this figure of dismissals is higher than normal. However, he also reiterated how this cannot be blamed just on the referees.
The defender is confident the referee will do all the right things when the two sides meet.
“At the Bernabeu, the balance of red cards is higher than normal, but it cannot be put down only to the referees, it has to be game by game and I have no doubt that the referee this weekend will do things correctly.”
The right-back is expecting to see a controversial-free game that will be enjoyed by all those involved. He is also hoping the match officials will not influence the outcome of the match.
“For the good of all, that of the players and his own, I hope that things go well”.
Moreover, Iraola has also commented on the current form of their opponents and has no doubt that Real will be in their best possible form.
“I am convinced that Real Madrid will be at the best they can be.”
The 30-year-old has shared his thoughts on the dangers Los Blancos will pose to his team. He is urging his teammates to never lose their focus and take their eyes of the ball.
The Spaniard is aware that Bilbao cannot afford to make any big mistakes as the defending champions will surely take advantage of them and punish for almost every mistake they make during the match.
“They are a team that punish the slightest mistake, so you always have to stay focused and if you concede a goal then it must be because they deserved it, rather than because you made a mistake.”
The Basque based club has now won their last two matches. It means this is their first back-to-back wins in La Liga this season.
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