The Derby’s Difficult Task Ahead
Carlo Ancelotti’s cautionary words after Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 tie highlight the challenges that lie ahead. The statement, "If it was difficult tonight, imagine what it will be like next Wednesday," underscores the intensity and unpredictability of the Madrid derby. Real Madrid may have secured a narrow advantage, but the return to the Metropolitano for the second leg in just eight days will test their resilience and tactical acumen. Despite the current edge, the match promises to be a battle of wills and strategies, with Atletico Madrid likely to be even more determined to level the score and push for an upset.
The Return of Jude Bellingham
One key element that could significantly ease Real Madrid’s task is the return of Jude Bellingham. The young England star, who missed the first leg due to suspension, is almost certain to be back in the starting lineup. Bellingham’s dynamic presence and technical prowess will be a welcome asset for Ancelotti, who will likely have to make a tough decision to leave out Brahim Diaz, despite his standout performance in the first leg. Diaz’s man of the match award was well-deserved, but the introduction of Bellingham could provide the extra edge needed to secure a place in the next round. Bellingham’s return not only boosts the team’s morale but also adds a layer of complexity to Atletico’s defensive plans.
The Camavinga Conundrum
Ancelotti’s most pressing doubt for the second leg revolves around Eduardo Camavinga. According to reports from Relevo, the French midfielder’s performance in the first leg, where he started alongside Aurelien Tchouameni, was less than stellar. Camavinga, who has been at Real Madrid for four years, has not developed as much as the club had hoped, and his best moments have often come when he is positioned at left-back. The decision to start Camavinga or Luka Modric in the second leg is a critical one for Ancelotti. Modric’s experience and composure could provide the stability needed in the midfield, especially given the high stakes of the upcoming match.
Ancelotti’s Tactical Dilemma
The manager is weighing the pros and cons of each option. Starting Modric from the beginning would allow Real Madrid to maintain more control of the game, a crucial factor given the pressure they will face at the Metropolitano. Modric’s tactical intelligence and ability to shift the balance of possession could be invaluable in a tight match. However, if Ancelotti decides to stick with Camavinga, he will need to find a way to mitigate his occasional lapses in concentration and decision-making. Camavinga’s physical capacity and energy could be beneficial, particularly in the second half when fatigue might set in for the opposition.
Club Insight and Camavinga’s Role
From within the club, it is acknowledged that Camavinga’s development has not met expectations. His quality and physical attributes are undeniable, but his mental maturity and consistency remain areas of concern. The internal assessment suggests that Camavinga’s best performances have come when he is deployed in a more defensive role, such as left-back. This insight adds another layer to Ancelotti’s decision-making process. While Camavinga’s flexibility is a positive, his role in the midfield could be a liability if he fails to maintain the level of focus and decision-making required in such a high-pressure game.
The Path Forward
As Real Madrid prepare for the second leg, the focus will be on leveraging their strengths and addressing their weaknesses. The return of Bellingham is a significant positive, and Ancelotti will likely use this opportunity to refine his strategy. If the manager decides to start Modric, it will be a nod to the need for stability and control. Conversely, if Camavinga starts, it will be a bold move to harness his energy and versatility. The balance between experience and youthful exuberance will be crucial, and Ancelotti’s ability to find the right mix could determine the outcome of the tie. The challenge is clear, but the potential for a memorable performance is equally compelling.
