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Federico Valverde said he had no choice but to bring Alvaro Morata down in the Spanish Super Cup final on Sunday.
Real Madrid midfielder Valverde was red-carded deep into extra time after chopping down Morata. The Atletico Madrid striker was through on goal and poised to strike before Valverde made his tactical foul.
Despite his dismissal, Valverde was still named MVP for the final, a game Real won 4-1 on penalties, with Thibaut Courtois saving Thomas Partey's spot-kick.
Valverde offered his apologies afterwards, per Omnisport (h/t Yahoo Sports UK): "I apologise to Alvaro Morata.