Emilio Butragueno has called on Real Madrid to put the disappointment of losing El Clasico to Barcelona behind them.
Madrid were beaten 4-3 at Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday night in a game that saw three penalties and a red card.
Messi scored a hat-trick, including Barca’s two spot kicks, while Sergio Ramos was sent off for bringing down Neymar for the first.
Speaking on Spanish television after the final whistle the former Madrid striker cited Los Blancos’ next game, against Sevilla, as crucial.
“Now we have to stand up and keep on fighting. We have a very important game at Sevilla in three days,” Butragueno said.
“We faced a powerful team and we knew it was going to be a long match, with many goals – maybe too many.
“Until Ramos’ red card the game was intense and hard-fought.
“The situation is not bad. Obviously it would have been much better to win. Now we have to show our courage.
“We must win at Sevilla. It will be a difficult challenge.”
Butragueno admitted that, club loyalty aside, the game was a special meeting between the rivals.
“It was a fantastic first half for any football fan, with two different styles. We produced a lot of chances to score,” he added.
