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When Fernando Morientes was loaned to the team at the beginning of this season, even the most optimistic of his many fans did not know how everything would turn out in this player's career.
However, the Spanish forward shone brilliantly at the "Stade Louis II" stadium, and it was certainly no surprise. After all, only a few could doubt that this player is a devilishly gifted goal-scoring machine. On the other hand, if he had known that he would become the reason for the end of Madrid club's season in Europe, maybe he wouldn't have even set foot in Monaco.
Conflicting feelings
Scoring a goal in both matches, Morientes helped the Monaco team unexpectedly defeat Real Madrid and reach the UEFA Champions League semi-finals. Morientes claims to be satisfied with his form in France, but admits that being the decisive blow to all of Madrid's dreams in the Champions League makes him feel strange and weird.
"I am pleased with Monaco's victory, of course, because I try to do what is best for Monaco," said the player. "But I have many friends in Madrid, who must be going through a very difficult period now. The feelings are such that I try not to think about it and enjoy this very important event for Monaco."
However, the player admits that defeating Madrid is a real honor. "We played against probably the best team in Europe and this victory means the fulfillment of a dream. It's an honor," says Morientes.
Sensational victory
After losing 4-2 in the first leg of the quarterfinals, Monaco's players surprised the whole football world in the decisive match by easily beating the Madrid club 3-1. However, the footballer himself believes that the victory was not easy.
"At first glance, it may seem that it was an easy game, especially when looking at everything from the other side of the field," says Morientes. "We won thanks to the amazing game of the entire team. We are now among the 4 strongest clubs in Europe. We deserved it."
A "Russian-English" challenge awaits
Soon, Morentes may be able to say that they are among the two best teams if they manage to beat the London club in the semi-finals. "They are a very strong team," Morientes says. "They have good forwards. They will try to make it hard for us, and we will try to play our game. Time will tell everything."
However, by defeating the Madrid club, Monaco's players proved that European superclubs are not unbeatable. "Sometimes it happens," the forward says. "It doesn't always happen, but 'Monaco' has provided a big surprise in the Champions League this season. Wealthier clubs usually leave smaller ones like 'Monaco' behind."
The future depends not on me
Asked about future plans, regarding the club, Morientes said that he will stay in Monaco for at least another 2 months. "After that - I don't know, it's not up to me. It depends on Madrid. It depends on a few still unclear things. Let's just wait for the end of the season, and then we can discuss."
