Article by Aurelian Botezatu – Published Sunday, February 22, 2026, 08:27 / Updated Sunday, February 22, 2026 08:30
Real Madrid lost at Osasuna, 1-2, and thus missed the opportunity to distance themselves at the top of the standings. Barcelona can overtake the “galacticos” today with a win over Levante.
The goal that sealed Madrid's defeat came in extra time (min. 90+5), when VAR upheld Raul Garcia's goal, initially disallowed for an alleged “offside” position. Real played modestly, far below the possibilities, and coach Alvaro Arbeloa did not apologize at the meeting with the journalists.
Alvaro Arbeloa: “We lacked control and quick movement of the ball”
“We didn't play a good game. They scored two goals from their two shots on goal, but I think we could have done a lot better. We have to play better, with more intensity, because that's what is expected of us.
We lacked control and quick movement of the ball. It is a matter of concept. If we are not at full capacity, anyone can beat us. Our opponents give one hundred percent“, drew the attention of the coach of Real Madrid, in the post-match press conference.
Alvaro Arbeloa: “In four days, our lives are at stake”
Arbeloa admitted that, at this moment, “the team is not able to string together three or four consecutive matches at the same level. We have to persevere in every game. We have nothing to do but persevere.
I hope this defeat doesn't hurt us too much. In just four days, we play the second leg with Benfica in the League play-off, our lives are at stake. It will be difficult to win every game, but we have to show strength. There can be no doubt now. We must continue to work and persevere.”
Dani Ceballos: “I take responsibility”
In turn, after the mistake committed in Osasuna's second goal, when he lost the ball in the middle of the field and thus allowed the hosts to arrive decisively in front of Courtois' goal, Dani Ceballos apologized.
A few hours after the final whistle, he posted a “mea culpa” on his social media account. “I take responsibility,” the midfielder wrote, along with an apology emoji and a photo from the match.
Osasuna – Real Madrid match summary
The current standings in La Liga
