Antonio Hidalgo: “The Cucho incident was a clear red”

Antonio Hidalgo spoke to the media after the match and made it clear he was pleased with his side’s response, especially in the second half. As MARCA reports, the coach had to deal with several key players unavailable due to a virus, but still praised the effort: “We took a point but we deserved three.” He also highlighted the goalkeeper, whom he described as “the best” for several “merit-worthy” saves.

React, then suffer

In Hidalgo’s view, the team managed to regroup during different moments of the game to stay competitive. He credited the tweaks he made: “The changes I made improved the team, we adjusted and we managed to suffer,” adding that they even had chances to win.

The coach also felt good about the mentality, noting that they kept their composure “against a Champions League-level team”, and that earning the draw after getting back into the match gives reassurance.

The Cucho controversy

Where Hidalgo was most direct was the Cucho incident, which he said deserved an immediate expulsion. “For me it’s a direct and clear red,” he said. He noted that the referee explained his version, and acknowledged “he’s the judge”, but insisted: “I still believe it was a clear sending-off.”

Looking ahead, the message was constructive. As MARCA highlights, Hidalgo believes the squad must improve “some things, above all defensively,” keeping the positives from the second half while addressing the defensive shortcomings.