Carlo Ancelotti appeared at a press conference after the victory by 2-1 against Atlético de Madrid. The Italian was satisfied with the result and wanted to highlight his team’s good play during the match. He insisted that it is an important small advantage for the second leg but by no means definitive. He also pointed out the individual play of Brahim and Rodrygo; and the good defensive play of Mbappé or Vini, who were not very successful in attack. Here are his statements:
Conclusions of the match: “Rodrygo and Brahim made the difference. They contributed a lot. The team was organized and compact. We had no intention of pressing them too much. Atlético had control of the game for several minutes, as did we, but they didn’t have many chances.”
Does the result leave something to be desired?: “No, not at all, this could be a semifinal or a final. It was unthinkable to think that the tie was going to end here. We have a good advantage for the second leg but nothing more”.
Vini and Mbappé: “Playing against Atlético’s defense is not that easy. They have worked hard, they have fought, they have not shown the quality they have, but they have the second leg to do so”.
Brahim: “It’s not true that he’s a bench player. He’s not the undisputed first choice but he’s a very important player, he makes the most of the minutes I give him”.
Is Mbappé injured?: “He was fine. He didn’t have any problems. They did a good defensive job”.
Fede Valverde: “He made a tremendous effort, he was very tired but he’s very happy. He contributed a lot to the team. I have no more words”.
Aerial play: “We were more effective last year; but we had Kroos and Joselu. This year it’s more complicated. We’ve scored goals with rehearsed plays, with goals from Valverde from the edge of the box. We’re looking for other solutions”.
Mbappé: “He only had a problem with his tooth. He hasn’t been able to work much. He’s been off for 3 days. He didn’t play against Betis in his best condition. These minutes will do him good for the next game.”
What did you say to Brahim?: ”I wanted to inform Brahim that Modric was going to come on to make a tactical change. I didn’t tell him anything else.
Clear chance for Mbappé: “We have to fight in the next game, it doesn’t change much. We are enjoying this small advantage but we have to think about the return leg”.