Lunin answers Real Madrid’s emergency call with standout display against Barcelona

Andriy Lunin produced a commanding performance for Real Madrid after stepping in for the ill Thibaut Courtois in Sunday’s 2-1 victory over Barcelona.

Courtois was ruled out after becoming unwell, forcing Real Madrid to change their plans shortly before the match. His absence had caused concern among the club’s supporters, but Lunin responded with an assured performance in the clasico.

Spanish newspaper Marca praised the Ukraine international, writing: “In the Real Madrid pages, in the section titled ‘Superheroes around the clock’, you will find the name of Andriy Lunin and his telephone number.”

The report said Courtois arrived at Valdebebas with a fever and feeling unwell, which prevented him from travelling to Barcelona. Mourinho then sent Lunin a message asking him to put on his gloves and work kit and prepare for a special assignment: starting in the clasico.

Lunin made the opportunity count at Camp Nou. Although Raphinha scored, the goalkeeper was widely praised for his overall display, particularly his outstanding save from Gerard Martin, which helped preserve Real Madrid’s lead.

Speaking about the intervention, Lunin said: “I like Nuno’s saying: good training, because it is about the daily work.”

Mourinho’s embrace after the final whistle

Mourinho had joked about Lunin during his news conference before the match.

“You have already asked me two questions, and neither of them is about Lunin, but if we lose here because of Lunin’s mistakes, he will be the first question,” he said.

When Martinez Munuera brought the match to an end, Mourinho ran straight to embrace his goalkeeper.

The Real Madrid manager then praised Lunin’s preparation and composure.

“All I told him is that he does not train to sit on the bench,” said Mourinho. “He played a very calm and balanced match. We have the best goalkeeper in the world, but none of us was sad today that Thibaut did not play. The team is very strong, even in difficult moments.”

Lunin’s ability to step up when required has also earned recognition from his team-mates. Federico Valverde said there were no words to describe the goalkeeper’s performance or his daily work.

“He gets fewer minutes because Thibaut is here, but he always gives his best with a positive attitude,” said Valverde. “That shows that when his moment comes, he is ready.”

The match was also another positive omen for Lunin in meetings with Barcelona. Sunday’s game at Camp Nou was his fifth against them, and he has now won four of those matches.

The La Liga schedule listed alongside the report includes Barcelona on 31 October 2026, while Deportivo Alaves play Racing Santander on 1 November 2026, with Real Madrid also listed in the same fixture information.