Ancelotti talks Vinicius, Alaba, Endrick after Real Madrid’s 5-4 aggregate win over Real Sociedad
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti expressed his satisfaction following his team’s hard-fought 5-4 aggregate victory over Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey semi-final.
Despite the nail-biting nature of the contest, Ancelotti appeared pleased with his squad’s performance and determination to reach the final.
The Italian tactician emphasised that his players gave everything they had to secure their place in the decisive match of the competition.
"It has been entertaining, we have fulfilled the objective of being in the final, and there is not much time to think more. We have complied," he began saying.
The encounter against Real Sociedad was the team’s 50th match of the season, a milestone that underscores the heavy workload his players have endured.
Yet, Ancelotti seemed pleased with how his squad has managed to cope with the demanding schedule.
He acknowledged the contributions of players who were brought in throughout the season, as well as those who have been playing consistently since the beginning.
"I think we are doing quite well. Those who have come in have contributed. Those who have played from the first moment have held on, like Rodrygo and Bellingham."
"On a physical level, we finished well. Better than Real Sociedad."
During the post-match discussion, Ancelotti was asked about a controversial moment involving Jude Bellingham, where a penalty appeal was denied.
The manager admitted he believed it was a red card offence but acknowledged that the referee made a different decision by only issuing a yellow card.
"For me, it was a red card, but it’s a situation where the referee has to choose. For him it’s yellow and for me it’s red," he said.
Ancelotti also praised Vinicius Jr. for his impactful display during the match. Despite receiving a warning, Vinicius responded in the best way possible by delivering a stellar performance.
"The warning brought out the best in Vinicius. He was decisive. With one of his plays we scored the 2-3 and he played a spectacular game."
The defensive performance was another talking point, with Ancelotti admitting that some mistakes occurred, though he attributed part of it to bad luck.
He pointed out that David Alaba, who had otherwise played well, experienced unfortunate moments where he unintentionally misjudged the ball.
"A bit of bad luck as well. Alaba played a good game, but he touched the ball twice. These are things that can happen. But what matters is that we’re in the final."
Endrick’s performance was another positive takeaway for Ancelotti. The manager highlighted a vital clearance and praised his contribution..
"That’s what we asked of him. He made a fantastic clearance. He doesn’t touch the ball many times, but he’s very effective," he noted.
With a spot in the Copa del Rey final secured, Real Madrid will now turn their attention to preparing for the decisive match where they will take on either Barcelona or Atletico Madrid.