Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has delivered a blunt assessment ahead of his team's Champions League round-of-16 showdown against Atletico Madrid, warning that Los Blancos will not secure a victory if they repeat their lackluster display from the recent La Liga defeat to Real Betis.
The Italian coach watched his side take an early lead against Betis, only for former Madrid star Isco to orchestrate a stunning comeback. Isco set up Johnny Cardoso’s equalizer from a corner before converting a decisive penalty, handing Madrid a frustrating defeat and dropping valuable points in the league race.
Real Madrid’s Form Raises Concerns Ahead of Atletico Clash
The loss to Betis highlights a concerning trend—the reigning Spanish champions have collected just five points from their last 15 available in La Liga. With just days left before Atletico Madrid visit the Santiago Bernabéu, Ancelotti knows his side must step up.
In his post-match press conference, the veteran coach didn’t mince words: "If we play like this, we will not win. That is very clear. I hope this serves as a wake-up call for us."
Ancelotti also pointed out Madrid’s defensive struggles, noting that Betis managed 17 shots on goal—the most his team has conceded in a single La Liga match this season.
Defensive Frailties and Attacking Concerns
Despite Jude Bellingham’s absence due to suspension, Ancelotti still had Vinicius Jr., Kylian Mbappe, and Rodrygo leading the attack. However, he was not impressed with their defensive contribution, emphasizing the lack of pressing intensity: "When we were good, we pressed well in the first half. But in the other 70 minutes, we were poor."
Atletico Gaining Momentum Ahead of the Derby
Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid capitalized on Real Madrid’s slip-up, securing a hard-fought 1-0 win over Athletic Club to climb to the top of the La Liga table. Diego Simeone’s men enter the Champions League clash in strong form, having remained unbeaten in their last four Madrid derbies. This season’s La Liga meetings between the two capital clubs both ended in 1-1 draws.
With Real Madrid’s form dipping and Atletico Madrid growing in confidence, Ancelotti’s men must rediscover their sharpness quickly if they hope to avoid another major setback in their Champions League campaign.
