Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has showered praises on Marc Cucurella for his remarkable defensive display against Barcelona in the El Clasico.

Los Blancos stunned their bitterest rivals by two goals to one at the Camp Nou courtesy of a brace from Kylian Mbappe, with Raphinha scoring the consolation for the Catalans.

Cucurella was handed the arduous task of marking Barcelona talisman Lamine Yamal, an assignment he carried out with distinction.

The former Chelsea defender put the brakes on the 19-year-old winger for most part of the game.

Speaking in his post-match reaction, The Special One acknowledged that the full back had a difficult assignment against the teenager.

“He made multiple attempts to provoke Cucu into receiving a yellow card, yet Cucu demonstrated remarkable resilience.

“The victory reflected collective excellence, though this was arguably Cucu’s most difficult match, and he prevailed against an exceptionally talented opponent.”

The Portuguese tactician added that tactical rotations ensured that Cucurella was in top physical condition for the classico.

“We have two top-level left-backs, which also allows me to manage playing time a bit,” Mourinho noted.

“Álvaro participated in Wednesday’s fixture, which has ensured Cucu maintains optimal physical condition and mental concentration, directing his attention exclusively towards this particular match.”

WDN