Ancelotti’s Disappointment Following Betis Defeat
Carlo Ancelotti, the seasoned manager of Real Madrid, has not minced words following his team’s recent defeat against Real Betis. The Italian tactician expressed profound disappointment with his players, particularly citing their lack of commitment and attitude during the match at the Benito Villamarin. Ancelotti, known for his diplomatic approach, was unusually direct in his criticism, emphasizing that the loss was a stark departure from the team’s usual high standards. "We’ll see what happens tomorrow in the match," he remarked, looking ahead to the Champions League Round of 16 clash with Atletico Madrid. "We were doing well in terms of attitude, but we lacked it against Betis. Hopefully it was an isolated case." Themanager’s candor underscores the high expectations he has for his squad and the importance he places on mental and physical resilience.
Different Eras, Different Challenges
When asked to compare the current issues with those from different eras, Ancelotti noted the difficulty in making such comparisons. "It is difficult to compare two different eras. There were players who were more focused on quality than on commitment and sacrifice. Those who have quality struggle," he explained. Ancelotti’s perspective on player types is clear: "There are two types of players: those who run and those who make the difference. If someone wants to be in the middle, it’s impossible. Either you run or you make the difference." This dichotomy highlights the manager’s belief in the importance of player dedication and effort, alongside technical skill. Ancelotti’s emphasis on these qualities underscores his commitment to building a balanced and effective team, one that can excel in both the physical and technical aspects of the game.
Looking Forward to the Atletico Derby
The upcoming fixture against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League is a significant one, and Ancelotti is keen to set the right tone for his team. "It will be a close tie and it will be decided in the return match. The objective tomorrow is to play well and take an advantage [to the second leg]. The match is close and competitive, but we cannot think about taking a big lead tomorrow. The opponent is a strong rival," he stated. The manager’s cautious optimism is evident, emphasizing the need for a solid performance rather than an overwhelming victory. This approach reflects his strategic mindset and the respect he has for Atletico, a team known for its robust defensive organization and counterattacking prowess.
Lessons from the Last Derby
The last meeting between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, a 1-1 draw in La Liga at the Santiago Bernabeu, serves as a valuable reference point for Ancelotti. "In the last derby, we played very badly in the first half and very well in the second. We have to think about playing like we did in the second half and not playing like we did in the first half. It’s not very complicated," he noted. The manager’s reflective commentary underscores the importance of consistency and adaptability. By focusing on the positive aspects of their previous performance, Ancelotti aims to inspire his team to replicate their second-half form, which included a penalty from Julian Alvarez and an equalizer from Kylian Mbappe, in their upcoming Champions League tie.
Defensive Effort: A Season-Long Focus
Ancelotti has consistently emphasized the importance of defensive effort throughout the season. Despite facing challenges in this area even into March, he remains committed to reinforcing this aspect of the game. "They are a team that is capable of reading match situations well, something we didn’t do in the game against Betis," he said when asked if Real Madrid lacks a nasty edge in games. This statement highlights the manager’s belief in the team’s ability to adapt and make crucial tactical adjustments. Ancelotti’s focus on defensive solidity is a testament to his strategic acumen and the need for a balanced approach in high-stakes matches.
Preparing for Atletico: A Different Challenge
Facing Atletico Madrid in the Champions League presents a different challenge compared to their previous opponent, Manchester City. Ancelotti elaborated on this point, saying, "We have to take into account the difference between the two rivals. Atletico is a more vertical team and can counterattack more. But I don’t want to change our style, our mentality, or our approach." This statement indicates that while the manager acknowledges the unique strengths of Atletico, he is committed to maintaining Real Madrid’s identity and playing style. Ancelotti’s philosophy of sticking to their strengths while being mindful of the opponent’s tactics is a hallmark of his managerial career and a key factor in preparing his team for the intense derby ahead.
