Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images
Photographer: David Ramos/Getty Images
Real Madrid had no difficulty in the rematch against SC Braga. With home advantage on their side, they collected all three points and qualified for the next round of the UEFA Champions League.
Vinicius Jr, Rodrygo Goes, and Brahim Diaz all scored for the Merengues as they defeated the Portuguese.
Carlo Ancelotti spoke to the press following his team’s triumph and assured participation in the Round of 16 about a variety of issues, including important players, injured stars, and the Champions League.
He started by emphasizing the significance of the team’s performance so far in the tournament, adding, ”
“In this tournament, Real Madrid performed better than others. It is not easy to always clear the group stage, but we have done well at home and away in our first four games. We are overjoyed to have made it to the round of 16.”
“This is a special competition for us, and Real Madrid has built its history in it.” Each game is extremely meaningful, and we will not relax in the next two since they all have the same requirement: to perform at our highest level,” he continued of Real Madrid’s history in the tournament.
Brahim Diaz made his second start of the season against Braga on a memorable night. He scored Real Madrid’s first goal of the match while filling in for Jude Bellingham in attacking midfield.
“He played a game of exceptional quality and defensive sacrifice.” He has done an excellent job. “In the position he has played today, Bellingham usually plays, and today he has very well replaced him,” Ancelotti said of the Spanish youngster.
“It could have been unjust to him.” He clearly deserves more playing time. “His best position is where he played today,” he said of Diaz’s limited playing time.
It was also a memorable game for Ancelotti, who became the manager with the most UCL victories on the night. When asked about his achievements, he stated:
“It is a great honour to reach this number of victories in this competition.”
The manager then turned his focus to Vinicius Jr, who was instrumental in Wednesday’s victory. The Brazilian had a goal and an assist, as well as a whopping seven vital passes.
“There were some doubts in the first half because he could have been more effective, but the second half has been spectacular.” You have to look closely at what he and Rodrygo did in the second portion because they produced great combinations. There aren’t many duos who can counter what the two do.”
Rodrygo Goes, another Brazilian who played strongly against Braga, was later expounded on by Ancelotti.
“There are forwards who score in every game and others who live for specific moments.” You can only encourage and reassure them. A player with his traits, whether before or after, will score because he has an exceptional quality. It’s only a question of time.”
As Real Madrid’s manager, it’s almost hard to provide every player equal playing time. After all, the names on the bench are just as important as those on the field.
“I am the coach, and I coach.” Players must carefully assess this. “I do the job of coaching, and the players must not make mistakes in this regard,” Ancelotti said of the tough choices he must make.
“I benched the player but not the person.” I have a fantastic connection with everyone. They have a lot of regard for me, and I try to treat them all as individuals,” he continued.
Arda Guler was supposed to make his Real Madrid debut last night, but he didn’t because the club is being careful with him. Ancelotti addressed the Turkish phenom’s likely availability.
“We’re being cautious with him. He exercises with the club after a lengthy injury and will play when he is fully recovered.”
Kepa Arrizabalaga was forced to withdraw from the starting lineup due to a late injury, and Andriy Lunin took his position on the pitch. Ancelotti had this to say regarding the goalie switch:
“He was uncomfortable during the warm-up and was unable to play.” We started Lunin, who has been instrumental in our victory. He made a crucial penalty save and played the whole game.”
“This means, adding the match of Brahim and that of Lucas Vázquez, that the squad is very healthy and that we can fight in all competitions,” said the Spaniard.
Finally, the Italian coach wrapped off his news conference by responding to Gerard Pique’s comments on Real Madrid’s 14th UCL victory.
“He lives in his own world, which is not Real Madrid’s, and I can assure you that no Real Madrid player forgets the 14th.” It is a Champions League that will be remembered for the rest of one’s life.”
