Real Madrid’s disappointing 3-1 defeat to AC Milan in the UEFA Champions League at the Santiago Bernabéu has raised significant concerns about the team’s recent form, with manager Carlo Ancelotti acknowledging the struggles his squad faces ahead of the crucial fixtures that lie ahead.
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The loss was a major shock to fans and players alike, as Real Madrid had been favorites heading into the match. The defeat marks a series of recent challenges for the Spanish giants, who have now slipped behind in both domestic and European competitions. Ancelotti, visibly frustrated with the performance, was quick to address the issues plaguing his team after the match.
A Surprising Turn of Events at the Bernabéu
On paper, Real Madrid’s lineup seemed superior, with some of the best talent in Europe, including veterans such as Luka Modrić, Toni Kroos, and the ever-dominant Karim Benzema. However, Milan came out firing from the very start. With early dominance in possession and high pressuring, Milan rattled Madrid’s defense and quickly capitalized on Real Madrid’s defensive lapses.
The match began with high intensity, with Milan’s Rafael Leão and Olivier Giroud making it clear that they were not intimidated by the legendary atmosphere at the Bernabéu. Leão, in particular, was exceptional, scoring the opening goal in the 20th minute. Milan’s swift counter-attacks and disciplined defense kept Real Madrid at bay for much of the first half. Despite some threatening attacks from the home side, Milan doubled their lead before halftime through a Giroud header that left Madrid’s goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois with little chance.
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The second half saw Real Madrid attempt a comeback with an early goal from Benzema, but their hopes were quickly dashed when Milan restored their two-goal advantage just minutes later, sealing the match with a stunning strike from Junior Messias.
Ancelotti’s Concerns
Ancelotti, who has been at the helm of Real Madrid since 2021 and led the club to Champions League glory last season, appeared visibly troubled after the match. During his post-match interview, he did not shy away from expressing his disappointment with the team’s performance.
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“We started poorly and didn’t recover well during the game. Milan showed more intensity, more desire to win, and that’s something we need to address,” Ancelotti said. “This is a difficult moment, and we need to reflect on the mistakes that were made on the pitch. We have to play better, especially at home, and that is a concern for me.”
Despite Real Madrid’s extensive experience and depth in their squad, Ancelotti highlighted a few key areas that need urgent improvement. One of the most noticeable issues was the lack of defensive cohesion. The veteran defenders, including Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba, seemed disjointed and unable to contain the speed and creativity of Milan’s attack. Courtois also had an uncharacteristically shaky performance, especially in the lead-up to Milan’s third goal, further compounding the team’s difficulties.
Another major concern for the Madrid coach was the inability of his midfield to control the tempo of the game. Despite the presence of Modrić and Kroos, two of the best midfielders in the world, the midfield lacked sharpness and failed to provide the usual creative spark. Milan’s midfield, led by Ismaël Bennacer and Sandro Tonali, dominated possession and looked more composed throughout the game.
Pressure Mounting on Real Madrid
This loss is not just a blow to Real Madrid’s chances in the Champions League, but it also raises questions about their current form in La Liga. With Barcelona and Atlético Madrid breathing down their necks in the league, Madrid cannot afford more slip-ups. Their once indomitable position in European football is now in jeopardy, and the pressure is mounting on Ancelotti to turn things around.
“Real Madrid always wants to win, and this kind of result brings pressure. We need to work harder and get back to the level that this club demands,” Ancelotti continued, acknowledging the challenge ahead. “The players are motivated, but we need to address the tactical issues and ensure that we have the right mentality when we take the field.”
While Ancelotti’s leadership has often been a stabilizing factor for the team, this season is proving to be more unpredictable than expected. The club’s recent dip in form has led to speculation about whether they might make moves in the transfer market to bolster their squad, especially in defense and midfield.
Looking Ahead
With important matches in both La Liga and the Champions League on the horizon, Real Madrid will need to regroup quickly. Ancelotti will be hoping to find the right balance between his experienced veterans and the emerging young talent, such as Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouaméni, to restore the team’s defensive solidity and attacking flair.
While the defeat to Milan was a wake-up call, it is far from the end of their season. The talent is there, but it remains to be seen if Ancelotti can rekindle the spark that has made Real Madrid one of the most formidable teams in world football.
Real Madrid’s next match in the Champions League, as well as their upcoming fixtures in La Liga, will provide an opportunity for the team to bounce back and show that they are still capable of competing at the highest level. However, if their defensive issues are not resolved soon, it could be a long season for Los Blancos.
As Ancelotti himself said, “We have no choice but to improve, because the expectations of this club are always the highest.” The pressure is on, and it remains to be seen if Real Madrid can rise to the occasion.
