Ancelotti talks Vinicius, Rodrygo, Ceballos, penalty incident after Atletico Madrid 1-1 Real Madrid | OneFootball

Following a hard-fought draw in the recent Madrid derby, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti faced the media to share his thoughts on the match and the team’s performance.

The result allowed Real Madrid to retain their position at the top of La Liga, but there were plenty of points to reflect on.

Ancelotti acknowledged that the team struggled in the first half. They lacked the necessary intensity and aggression, which slowed down their play and limited their effectiveness on the pitch.

“In the first half, we talked about giving the pitch more space. In the second half, it went well but the team is disappointed because it deserved to win. It’s going to be a very competitive league until the last game,” the manager began saying.

One of the pivotal moments in the match was Atletico Madrid’s penalty, which contributed to the 0-1 scoreline.

Ancelotti chose not to delve into discussions about the referee’s decision or the role of VAR in awarding the penalty, preferring to avoid any controversy.

“No, I don’t want to talk about the referee. The reason? I simply don’t want to.”

Overall thoughts

Ancelotti stayed silent about the penalty incident. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Ancelotti highlighted the importance of tactical adjustments. Initially, the plan was to utilise wide areas more effectively, but the team failed to execute this strategy well in the first half.

“We deserved more, especially in the second half, where we had total control. The first half was totally different, slower on our part and less aggressive,” he noted.

In the second half, they found better success with a more patient approach, despite Atletico Madrid’s defensive setup forcing them to play through central channels at times.

“The penalty situation obviously affected the team and we did not take advantage of situations like we did in the second half. We came away with a draw, but with good feelings because the team was very good.”

VAR decision

Carlo Ancelotti did not want more controversy. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

When asked about the penalty incident again, Ancelotti decided to stay away from further controversy.

“The VAR is the one who called the penalty. And he did so after the referee had seen the play very well and assessed it on the field.

“People in football don’t understand this. But I don’t want to get into another controversy.”

On Vini, Rodryo and Ceballos

Ancelotti admitted the plan was not executed. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

When asked about the use of Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo against Atletico Madrid, the manager said the idea was there but the team could not pull it off.

“The idea was to play on the outside in the first half as well, but we didn’t do that. It was better to be patient and play on the outside, although the opponent’s low block often forces you to go inside.”

He also commended the efforts of several players, including Dani Ceballos, Federico Valverde, and the centre-backs.

“He [Ceballos] played very well, as did Valverde, the centre-backs… On Tuesday we’ll see how the team recovers because it will be another intense match. Those who haven’t played have an advantage.”

Looking ahead to Man City

Looking ahead, Ancelotti noted the need to assess the players’ recovery for the upcoming match against Manchester City. Those who did not feature in the derby might have an edge in terms of freshness.

Ancelotti admits the plan would stay the same against Manchester City. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Reflecting on the tactical approach, Ancelotti considered the formation with two lines of four and Bellingham positioned wider as a successful setup.

The team’s defensive organisation worked well, as goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was rarely called into action. Both Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr contributed defensively, making vital efforts to support the team.

“The formation may be valid. We played two lines of four, with Bellingham more on the outside.

“It worked out quite well, I don’t remember Courtois making any saves. Both lines did well. Kylian and Vinicius made an effort to drop back and be with the team,” he added.

Real Madrid remain focused on maintaining their strong form, knowing that La Liga will likely remain competitive until the final matchday.

Source: AS