Real Madrid’s hopes of clinching LaLiga took a major hit after a 1-2 loss at home to Valencia, with Hugo Duro delivering the fatal blow in the 95th minute. Following the dramatic finish at the Santiago Bernabéu, Carlo Ancelotti addressed the media, acknowledging the setback but urging his team to fight until the very end.
“It’s more complicated now, but we must stay focused. We still have chances—fewer, of course—but we have to fight until the final match,” said the Italian coach.
What Went Wrong for Madrid
Ancelotti lamented his side’s lack of efficiency despite creating multiple chances.
“We created a lot, got close to scoring, but lacked effectiveness and quick ball recovery. Opponents don’t have to do much to score against us,” he explained.
Valencia sealed the win with a counterattack goal in stoppage time, taking advantage of Madrid’s all-out push for a winner.
“We took risks because a draw wasn’t enough, and they punished us with a counter,” Ancelotti admitted.
Champions League Focus: Arsenal Ahead
Looking ahead to Madrid’s upcoming Champions League clash with Arsenal, Ancelotti emphasized the need for sharper defending and better finishing.
“We missed the chance to stay in the title fight with more strength. Arsenal will come at us aggressively, so we must be solid at the back and far more effective.”
He also noted small mistakes that proved costly:
“After the penalty miss, we conceded from a set piece. These small details can flip the outcome of a match.”
Still, he stood firm in his belief that his team deserved more:
“Valencia played their game well, but Real Madrid deserved the win—without a doubt.”
Vinícius’s Struggles and the Bernabéu Whistles
Vinícius missed a crucial penalty, his second in a row, prompting audible whistles from the crowd. Ancelotti defended his star.
“It’s been a tough season for penalty takers. Bellingham missed, Mbappé missed, and now Vinícius. I tried to give him confidence. He missed, yes, but I don’t think the boos will affect him—he’s focused.”
Courtois Comeback Possible vs Arsenal
In more positive news, Thibaut Courtois could return for Tuesday’s key European match.
“Courtois has trained and felt good. We’re hopeful he’ll be ready for Tuesday, along with others,” Ancelotti concluded.
Summary: Real Madrid’s title hopes have taken a big hit, but the focus now shifts to Europe. Ancelotti remains defiant, trusting his players to respond—starting with a massive night in London.
