Carlo Ancelotti reveals what he told Pep Guardiola after Real Madrid knocked Man City out of the UEFA Champions League
Carlo Ancelotti recently revealed what he told Pep Guardiola after Real Madrid's win over Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, April 17.
The two sides faced off at the Etihad in the second leg of their quarter-finals tie, with the first leg ending in a 3-3 draw. Los Blancos had an excellent start to the game, as Rodrygo Goes scored after 12 minutes. City, though, brushed aside the early blow and raised their intensity.
Manchester City dominated possession and created multiple chances to equalise but failed to capitalise on them in the first half. Kevin De Bruyne then finally restored parity in the 76th minute. The game remained 1-1 after extra time as well and it went to penalties, where Real Madrid won 4-3.
After the game, Carlo Ancelotti shared what he told City manager Pep Guardiola, saying (via Football Italia):
“I congratulated him and wished him the best of luck for the rest of the season. They progressed last season, and this time, it was our turn. It was a great feat to win today and I am really happy.”
Real Madrid will face Ancelotti's former club Bayern Munich in the Champions League semi-finals.
Carlo Ancelotti on Real Madrid's Champions League QF win over Manchester City
The record 14-time Champions League winners had an excellent start to the second leg as Rodrygo gave them the lead. However, Manchester City then pushed them back and Real Madrid needed to defend deep for most parts. City had 68% possession and 33 attempts on goal with eight being on target. Los Blancos had eight total attempts, with three being on target.
Despite City's dominance on the ball, they could only score one goal to take it to extra time and then the penalties. While Ederson saved one penalty, Los Blancos goalkeeper Andriy Lunin saved two to help his side to the victory.
Carlo Ancelotti opened up about the Spanish giants winning games in this fashion over the years and said (via Managing Madrid):
“Madrid have done it many times. It’s this badge. In the shoot-out we were convinced we would qualify. Andriy had a fantastic game. I really like it when a team sacrifices, fights. Besides the quality. This is the only way to win here.”
Real Madrid have another big challenge up next as they host Barcelona in the El Clasico in La Liga on Sunday, April 21.