Real Madrid captain Raul admitted last night's 3-5 Supa Copa defeat to Sevilla was "a big setback".

"It has been a big setback. It was our first game in the Bernabeu and we had hoped for much more and to win the title," said Raul. "We have not started well and we were always chasing the game. There were moments which we were able to get back into the match, but just as we did, Sevilla would score again and it has become very difficult.

"We are not going to drop our heads. It is clear that it is a great setback, but I believe that the team is working well and little by little we are improving."

Pepe, who was sent-off on his Bernabeu debut, courageously fronted the media afterwards and said: "I'm here to explain what happened. I assume my responsibility.

"I've never conceded so many goals in my career - never mind in a final. I am very sad, but I must keep my head up.

"Their free-kicks were difficult to handle and I also gave away a penalty and was sent-off. I am very sad."