Introduction
Real Madrid defender Raúl Asencio has spoken out about the hostile reception he received from Real Sociedad fans during their recent Copa del Rey semifinal clash. The intense atmosphere at Reale Arena saw sections of the crowd directing offensive chants at Asencio, prompting the referee to momentarily suspend the match.
What Happened to Real Madrid Defender?
The incident occurred after Asencio committed a foul, triggering an aggressive reaction from the home supporters. Chants of “Asencio, die” echoed through the stadium, leading referee José María Sánchez Martínez to activate the anti-discrimination protocol. As a result, play was stopped briefly while discussions took place between team captains and coaches to assess the situation.
Real Madrid Defender Asencio’s Reaction
Despite the hostility, Asencio has remained composed and focused on his performance. Speaking after the match, the Real Madrid defender acknowledged the situation but emphasized that he felt “comfortable” on the pitch despite the challenging environment.
“These things happen in football, and while it’s not something you ever want to hear, I stay focused on the game and my responsibilities,” Asencio stated.
Carlo Ancelotti’s Response to Real Madrid Defender’s Situation
Real Madrid’s head coach, Carlo Ancelotti, decided to substitute Asencio at halftime, citing the intensity of the moment and the defender’s earlier yellow card as factors in the decision. Ancelotti later commented on the incident, condemning the behavior of some fans while expressing confidence in Asencio’s mental resilience.
“It’s never acceptable to hear such chants directed at any player. Asencio is strong, and we fully support him,” Ancelotti said in his post-match interview.
Match Outcome and What’s Next for Real Madrid Defender?
Despite the controversy, Real Madrid secured a 1-0 victory over Real Sociedad, thanks to a crucial goal from young Brazilian star Endrick in the 19th minute. The result puts Los Blancos in a strong position ahead of the second leg, which is set to take place at Santiago Bernabéu on April 1.
The upcoming match will determine who advances to the final, with Real Madrid aiming to extend their dominance in Spanish football. Asencio, along with his teammates, will be looking to maintain their momentum and focus on securing another crucial victory.
Conclusion: Real Madrid Defender’s Response to Fan Hostility
The hostile reaction from Real Sociedad fans highlights ongoing concerns about crowd behavior in football. However, Asencio’s composed response demonstrates his professionalism and commitment to his team. With Real Madrid now preparing for the second leg, the focus remains on securing a place in the Copa del Rey final.