Real Madrid entered the match strongly, taking a 2-0 lead, but their performance gradually declined, allowing Barcelona to mount a comeback and overturn the scoreline. Despite the Blaugrana’s superiority, the second half featured moments that could have shifted the game back in Real Madrid’s favor.
Kylian Mbappé reduced the deficit to 4-3, and in the final moments, Víctor Muñiz had a golden opportunity to equalize. He found himself completely alone in front of Szczęsny, but his shot went wide. It’s possible that his desire to secure the match for Real Madrid on his debut affected his composure.
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According to sources close to the club, Muñiz was unable to hold back his emotions after the match against Barcelona and broke down in tears in the dressing room. He may have felt responsible for missing the chance to level the score. However, coach Carlo Ancelotti made sure to speak with him and embraced him in an effort to lift his spirits.
Ancelotti comforts his young player:
He told him, “It’s not your fault. You missed the chance, and that happens… You’ll have more moments like this in the future.” The Italian coach wanted to relieve Muñiz of any guilt, firmly believing that the loss was not his responsibility.
Although Muñiz had previously been called up to the national team, he likely never imagined that his first official appearance would come in a La Liga Clásico. Ancelotti chose to give him that opportunity in the final minutes, marking his debut with the first team.
With Endrick already on the pitch and Vinícius forced off due to injury, Ancelotti saw Muñiz as a fitting option, thanks to his speed and direct playing style. He came close to leaving a decisive mark in his debut, but luck was not on his side.
The experience was a tough one for him, spoiling what was meant to be a memorable occasion. Ancelotti understood this well and was quick to console him. Missing the goal didn’t make him the villain of the Clásico.
Interestingly, Muñiz’s involvement drew widespread attention—not because he didn’t deserve it, but because he came on while Rodrygo remained on the bench, after Ancelotti opted to bring on Arda Güler in attack.
When asked why Rodrygo wasn’t included or even warmed up during the match, Ancelotti explained: “He didn’t warm up because he had just recovered and wasn’t fully fit to compete.” However, that explanation did little to quiet speculation surrounding his future with the team.
