Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti made it clear in a recent interview that despite the team’s defeat to Arsenal in the first leg of the Champions League quarterfinals, their ultimate goal is still to turn the game around. However, in his opinion, the team’s performance in La Liga should not be ignored, and they must play well in their domestic matches before they can lay the foundation for a Champions League turnaround.
Behind in the Champions League, Real Madrid seeks to turn things around
Real Madrid failed to dominate the first leg against Arsenal, which made both fans and the team feel a bit sorry. However, Carlo Ancelotti firmly stated in the press conference that the team has not lost confidence because of this, on the contrary, they have already focused their attention on the next match against Arsenal, and will go all out to strive for a successful turnaround.
“We did lose in the first leg, but the game is not over yet. We have home advantage for the second leg and the turning point of this game could well start in the next La Liga match.” Ancelotti emphasized.
La Liga matches are key to adjusting emotions
Ancelotti singled out the upcoming league clash with Alaves as the perfect opportunity to help the team regain confidence.
“Tomorrow’s league game is very important for us, not only for the points, but also to adjust our form. Although everyone’s attention may have gone to the Champions League, if we can’t get our rhythm back in La Liga, it will be difficult for us to play well in the Champions League.” He said.
He admitted that the last loss made the atmosphere in the dressing room a bit heavy, but he believes the players are capable and mentally fit enough to deal with the pressure. “Football games don’t go smoothly, every game is a challenge and it’s how we react to defeat and how quickly we react.”
The team is training aggressively and has clear objectives
According to Ancelotti, the team has been very engaged in training over the past few days, with everyone having the same goal in mind: to win. He particularly emphasized on the team’s effort and unity, “Everyone is clear about their responsibilities, we have to play the game more aggressively and get the running game up.”
It is worth mentioning that in the first round of the game against Arsenal, Real Madrid’s running data is significantly behind the opponent, which to a certain extent affects the rhythm of the game and the performance of possession. Ancelotti also responded to this, “The data doesn’t lie. We’re not active enough on the field, and that’s something we’ll have to improve on in the next game.”
Home field advantage may be the key
Carlo Ancelotti also spoke about the fact that the second leg will be played at home, which is undoubtedly a big advantage for Real Madrid. He said, “Our fans are our strong backing. At the Bernabeu Stadium, we have the ability to turn the tables on any opponent. This is not the first time and it won’t be the last.”
He believes that the team will have more motivation to complete the turnaround with the atmosphere and support at home. “Real Madrid is a team with a tradition of turnarounds, and we have done it many times at crucial moments. This time, we are also ready to perform another miracle.”
Mindset determines success or failure
Ancelotti has repeatedly emphasized the importance of “mentality”. He believes that the second round with Arsenal is not only a technical and physical confrontation, but also a psychological game. “Players need to learn to forget about failure and focus on the future. Only with a positive mindset can we play at our best.”
He also pointed out that the players must build up their confidence game by game, rather than hoping for a “magical” turnaround. “Football is not magic, it’s all about accumulation and execution. We have to play every minute from tomorrow.”
Experience is the biggest card
In Ancelotti’s opinion, Real Madrid’s experience may be the most crucial part of this tough battle. “It’s not the first time we’ve faced difficulties and it’s not the first time we’ve fallen behind in a knockout game. It is this experience that makes us more calm and collected in big games.” He said.
The comments also served as a reminder that despite Arsenal’s hot form, Real Madrid are a team that has pulled off stunning comebacks against unfavorable odds on many occasions. They know how to adjust their form at crucial moments and how to play well for 90 minutes and even extra time.
Written in conclusion: a turnaround, starting now
Ancelotti concluded: “If we want to continue in the Champions League, we have to start in La Liga. Starting against Alaves, we have to regain our rhythm, form and confidence. Only then will we be able to show the true Real Madrid spirit in the do-or-die match against Arsenal.”
This second leg of the Champions League quarterfinals will undoubtedly be a tough battle, but Ancelotti and his team seem to be prepared both mentally and tactically. The battle ahead is about to be fought and we will see if Real Madrid can pull off another miracle.
