Real Madrid managed to secure their spot in the Champions League quarterfinals despite a lackluster performance in their 1-1 draw with RB Leipzig. The match, which ended 2-1 on aggregate in favor of Madrid, saw Vinícius Júnior scoring for the home side in the 65th minute, only to be quickly equalized by Willi Orbán for Leipzig.
Manager Carlo Ancelotti openly criticized his team's display, labeling it as a 'bad game' with low intensity. He acknowledged the psychological aspect that affected their performance and highlighted the need for improvement moving forward. Ancelotti expressed his disappointment with the team's lack of pressing, slow ball movement, and sideways passing throughout the match.
Despite failing to register a shot on target in the first half, Madrid managed to grind out a result and progress to the next round. Ancelotti admitted that he may have made errors in his team selection and emphasized the importance of self-criticism and improvement.
Defender Antonio Rüdiger echoed Ancelotti's sentiments, acknowledging Madrid's poor performance and lack of intensity. He emphasized the need for focus and concentration in the Champions League, warning that such performances could lead to elimination in the future.
Real Madrid currently holds a seven-point lead in LaLiga and sits comfortably at the top of the table. Despite the criticism and disappointment surrounding their recent Champions League display, the team remains optimistic about their prospects in both domestic and European competitions.
With their place secured in the quarterfinals alongside the likes of Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, and Manchester City, Real Madrid will be looking to regroup and deliver stronger performances as they continue their pursuit of silverware this season.
