Real Madrid manager José Mourinho has praised his players for their bravery and composure following their 2-1 victory over Barcelona on Sunday.

Kylian Mbappé scored twice, with Raphinha netting for Barcelona, as Madrid secured the win and reduced the gap between themselves and the LaLiga champions to three points.

Speaking after the match, Mourinho commended his players for dealing effectively with Barcelona’s aggressive pressing and remaining composed under pressure.

The Portuguese manager highlighted the team’s courage during build-up play, particularly against a Barcelona side known for pressing high up the pitch.

“My boys were amazing tonight. They were very brave, especially in build-up, against a team that presses very strongly and very high,” Mourinho said.

He added: “And even when they equalized, we did not panic or lose focus.”

However, Mourinho admitted that his team took a risk by failing to score a second goal earlier to establish a two-goal advantage, which could have made the closing stages less difficult.

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Real Madrid will next travel to face Racing Santander in the league as they look to maintain pressure on Barcelona at the top of the table, before heading away to play AEK Athens in the Champions League.