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After Real Madrid’s thrilling 5-2 victory over Borussia Dortmund, manager Carlo Ancelotti took to the press room at the Santiago Bernabeu to discuss what was an intense and challenging match for his side.
Despite the win, it was evident that the team is navigating a difficult phase, which Ancelotti acknowledged in his post-match analysis.
In his breakdown of the game, Ancelotti highlighted the team’s contrasting performances in each half. He noted that the first half lacked energy and aggression, with the team appearing somewhat timid.
“After the break, we changed the system and the team was more intense,” he began saying
“In the first half, we were more timid and it was quite clear what we had to do and the team did very well by putting more intensity. It was the best second half for the team.”
Ancelotti’s assessment
Although the team was organised, there wasn’t enough pressure on the ball, which allowed Borussia Dortmund to score twice without posing too much of a threat.
During the half-time break, Ancelotti decided to switch up the system, which resulted in a much more intense performance in the second half.
“There was order, but there was a lack of pressure on the ball. And so they scored two goals against us without creating much danger.
“The team was balanced, also in the first half, yes, but that pressure was lacking. And we put it in the second.”
He told his players to focus on the finer details of the game, such as precise passing, effective crossing, and winning one-on-one duels.
According to Ancelotti, this change in attitude helped to shift the momentum in their favour, starting with their first goal in the second half, which made all the difference in turning the game around.
“I said that it might be thought that coming back was a utopia, but that we should focus on the small details.
“Not missing passes, making good crosses, winning duels. When you win duels, the dynamic of the game changes. And it changed with the 1-2,” he noted.
Vinicius will win Ballon d’Or
When discussing Vinicius Jr., Ancelotti acknowledged the young Brazilian’s impact. He explained that while Vinicius has faced criticism, including boos from the crowd, his ability to make a difference on the pitch is undeniable.
“I think he does have recognition in Spain. They whistle it because it makes a difference. With him, he is stopping the issue of racism and is respected. They whistle it and it’s normal.”
He expressed his belief that Vinicius will win the Ballon d’Or for his incredible performance last season, despite this particular game not being his best.
“What I can say about Vinicius is that it’s rare for him to have a second half like he did. He had extraordinary energy and character.
“He will win the Ballon d’Or for what he did last year, not for what he did tonight. This will serve him well for the next Ballon d’Or,” he added.
Lucas Vazquez and Rodrygo
As for Lucas Vazquez, Ancelotti praised him for his contribution to the team, especially the goal that sparked their comeback.
He admitted that Vazquez struggles more defensively, but his offensive work and ability to create space made a significant impact in the game.
“He scored the goal that turned the game around. I ask him to work offensively and it is a bit more difficult for him to defend, which is normal. But he gives us a lot of space. He scored a great goal.”
On Rodrygo’s situation, Ancelotti confirmed that the player had suffered a muscle injury after making a spectacular run that contributed to the team’s third goal. Although the injury is unfortunate, Ancelotti accepted it as part of the game.
“He has a muscle injury. He had a spectacular run when the third goal was scored… It’s a shame, but it is what it is,” he concluded.
Source: AS
