With a Real Madrid star becoming the hero in his side's Spanish Super Cup triumph after getting sent off for a last-ditch tackle on Alvaro Morata, opposition coach Diego Simone later revealed what he told the player after the foul.
Click through the gallery above to see some images of the red-card tackle and Real's celebrations on Sunday!
Los Blancos beat Atletico Madrid 4-1 on penalties to lift their 11th Spanish Super Cup after the game had ended all square in extra-time.
Atletico could have scored the opener in the 114th minute when Alvaro Morata was put through on goal, but Federico Valverde fouled him from behind to prevent a clear goalscoring opportunity.
I think Valverde’s tackle is the definition of “taking one for the team” https://t.co/R7wsS9znVg
— David Kappel (@kappilinho) January 13, 2020
The 21-year-old, who was named Man of the Match, was later surprisingly praised by Simeone for his tackle.
"It was the most important moment of the game," the Atleti boss said, as quoted by Marca.
"I told him that anyone would've done the same thing in his place.
"I think giving Valverde (being) Man of the Match makes all the sense in the world because Valverde won the match with this action."
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Valverde apologised after the final whistle for his action, but was happy he could help his side lift the trophy.
"I've apologised (to Morata)," he said.
"It's not good what I did, but I had to do that.
"I'm happy for the trophy.
"When the penalties ended, I waited and I then I ran (on to the pitch). They congratulated me, but it's for everyone.
"For those who played, those who didn't and those who gave advice at half-time. It's a triumph of the team."
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Having now won their 11th Spanish Super Cup, Real are now just two short of record champions FC Barcelona, who were knocked out in the semi-finals by Atletico.
What did you make of Valverde's tackle on Morata? Have your say in the comments section below.
