Real Madrid Confidencial Ancelotti Has Taken 2 Great Joys at Etihad, Victory Isn't Everything
The team hasn't seen any cards and will have all players available for the return leg, including those on notice.
Real Madrid achieved a key victory at the Etihad against Manchester City, but Carlo Ancelotti didn't just celebrate the win. The Italian coach received two great joys that bolster the team's aspirations for the return match at Santiago Bernabéu.
The first joy was, of course, the victory. A positive result in hostile territory is always vital in high-level competitions, and Real Madrid achieved a solid victory, leaving City with few clear options. Ancelotti, however, knows that it's not all about the score.
No Player Suspended
The second great joy for Ancelotti was the team's discipline. In a match of maximum intensity, Real Madrid managed to avoid the dreaded yellow card.
Bellingham, Camavinga, Tchouaméni, Modrić, and Endrick, key players for Ancelotti, left without sanctions, despite being at risk. This ensures they will be available for the return match.
The absence of cards is crucial. In matches as decisive as this, any booking could have been an obstacle for Real Madrid's key players. Ancelotti knows this, and that's why his smile after the final whistle reflected more than just the victory.
Great Performance
Bellingham continues to show his growth as a leader, while players like Camavinga, Tchouaméni, and Modrić provide the freshness and experience needed in these high-level encounters. For Ancelotti, having them available for the return match is a relief, as their influence will be crucial to secure advancement to the next phase.
Additionally, Real Madrid demonstrated a great ability to control the pace of the match. Avoiding bookings speaks not only of discipline but also of tactical maturity.
Ancelotti seems to have found the perfect balance between aggression and control, which is vital in the later stages of the Champions League.
In summary, Ancelotti received two great joys at the Etihad: an important victory and the peace of mind of having his key players available for the return match. Real Madrid is preparing with everything to face the challenge, and undoubtedly, the Italian coach smiles thinking about what's to come.
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