"There are two teams in the semi-finals that nobody expected: Real Madrid and Villarreal"

Carlo Ancelotti was joined by Fede Valverde in the press room to analyse the first leg of the Champions League semi-final between Real Madrid and Manchester b, which will be played at the Etihad Stadium.

The Italian coach began his speech by talking about an "open tie": "We have to play 180 minutes. In this type of match, there is a mixture of happiness and at the same time concern about playing against a strong opponent.

"This Champions League has been very tough, we've had some tough games. We have fought against all the teams that were favourites and we have done well. This Tuesday we will do exactly the same," he said.

He also made reference to the players who are struggling: "Mendy is fine and will be here. Alaba seems to be feeling a bit better, and Casemiro is the one with whom we have the most doubts. If he can't play, he'll play in the next game".

He didn't dispel the uncertainty about the starting line-up: "We're not going to decide the tie in this game. I have doubts about whether to go for three strikers or just two. That's true".

"There are two teams in the semi-finals that nobody expected to make it: Real Madrid and Villarreal. We are competing and that's undeniable," he insisted, taking some of the pressure off his side.

 

April 25, 2022