Real Madrid registered a narrow 1-0 win over Bundesliga side Union Berlin in their opening game of this season’s UEFA Champions League.
Despite attempting a whopping 32 shots in the night, the record European champions had to rely on the 94th-minute goal by Jude Bellingham to get the win.
Bellingham scored the injury-time winner for Real Madrid for the second time in three games after having scored in the 95th minute against Getafe in La Liga.
Speaking after the game, Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti shed light on several aspects, including the game, the changes he made, Bellingham, Joselu, and Rodrygo among others.
“The match was planned like this. It was complicated, with a lot of control and Union Berlin defended very well in a low block. They did not leave us any space between the lines. We were very good in recovering after a loss and in the dead ball,” he was quoted by Real Madrid website.
“It is true that we could score earlier, but scoring in the last minute is important. The spirit of this shirt allows us to believe until the last minute. The team has stood up to the end.
“The idea was to be patient and we have been too patient. They are matches like that, which can be classified as traps. We have the memory of the game vs Sheriff. In this type of match, it is worthwhile to avoid cons. Rudiger’s game was outstanding and we did well at the back because we didn’t suffer,” he added.
What changed after the first half?
Ancelotti made two changes towards the hour mark against Union Berlin, which worked wonders for the team. Explaining what was the idea behind it, he said,
“We fixed some things at half-time. The second half is better for us because the opponent puts less pressure compared to the first.
“In the second half, the opponent’s energy drops a little and we have more space and opportunities. The good thing is that today we have not come back. Union Berlin is very strong in the aerial ball and the second ball and we have done very well there,” he said.
The almighty Bellingham
The manager also spoke about the impact Bellingham made in the game, adding that it’s not a coincidence that the midfielder is scoring clever goals this season.
“He has quality and it seems like luck. This goal is similar to Getafe’s, but you have to be there. Coming from the second line he is smarter than others. He has this quality and he is taking advantage of it. I have not challenged anyone for goals.”
The manager also said that he believes he has a competitive group for the remainder of the season.
“What I think today is what I thought before the competition began.” We have a competitive group that will compete in all contests. If we had drew, I wouldn’t have altered my opinion of this squad: it’s loaded with talent.”
Regarding Joselu and Rodrygo
Ancelotti had a few words for Joselu and Rodrygo. The former has done well at Real Madrid, scoring two goals.
“He’s doing very well, and he scored again today.” He is quite helpful in getting the ball into the area. It’s rather evident. With the arrival of Bellingham, we are more strong than ever in the aerial game. He struck the post in the second half and almost scored twice in the first.”
“These games are complicated for him because he is very good in the open field,” the manager stated of Rodrygo. We had better control but limited room in the previous games.
“He may have more opportunities in open space.” He had a bit of terrible luck today because he would have scored on other times.”
Real Madrid’s star forward Vinicius Jr. remains missing, and when asked for an update, the manager responded,
“He is one of the world’s best forwards.” He is the deciding factor. Vinicius will return on Wednesday. Let’s see whether it survives till Sunday.”
Brahim Diaz, Toni Kroos, and Luka Modric
Toni Kroos came off the bench minutes after the hour mark, while Luka Modric was chosen to the starting XI. When questioned about the seasoned duo’s influence, the manager said,
“They make significant contributions.” It’s advantageous to have a strong midfield. I can’t see a midfielder sitting out four or five games in a row. Everyone may participate, whether at the start or in the middle.
“It is difficult to understand for a player who will not start, but it is not so difficult to believe that he will contribute in the second half with the opponents tired.”
“He is one of the most affected players in this first part of the season,” he said, “but every time he has gone out, he has contributed.” The plan is to give him additional time.”
Finally, the manager was asked whether he believes Real Madrid are the favorites to win the UEFA Champions League, to which he replied,
“Saying that we are favorites doesn’t help. Every game requires you to battle and fight. “It’s better to think about something else,” he concluded.