Carlo Ancelotti has pinpointed two players his Real Madrid side will need to count on as they prepare for a crucial UEFA Champions League second-leg showdown against Manchester City next week Wednesday.
Ancelotti's Madrid edged a dramatic first-leg encounter, twice coming from behind before sealing a 3-2 victory at the Etihad Stadium.
Source: Getty Images
According to the BBC, Erling Haaland’s brace seemed to put City in control, but Kylian Mbappe, Brahim Diaz, and Jude Bellingham turned the tide in Los Blancos' favour, handing the Spanish giants their first-ever win at City's fortress.
With the defending champions taking a slender advantage into next Wednesday's return fixture at the Santiago Bernabéu, Ancelotti has underlined the importance of having a fully fit squad for the decider.
The veteran tactician, who orchestrated the Etihad triumph with a makeshift defence, emphasised the need for Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba in Madrid’s quest to finish the job.
“Toni Rüdiger and David Alaba should be back available for the second leg,” Ancelotti revealed via The Athletic’s Mario Cortegana.
Doubling down on their significance, he added, "We need them.”
Despite their setback at home, Pep Guardiola’s side will be desperate to overturn the first-leg defeat and keep their Champions League hopes alive.
However, Los Blancos, serial winners on European nights, have built their legacy on thriving under pressure.
With the Bernabéu set to be a cauldron of intensity, Ancelotti’s men will look to capitalise on their advantage and secure passage to the next round.
In another report, highlighted Manchester City fans' frustration with a player following their 3-2 defeat to Real Madrid in the Champions League play-off first leg at the Etihad.
The 20-year-old came on for Manuel Akanji at halftime but found it difficult to cope with Madrid’s attack.
His failure to clear a bouncing ball led to Vinicius Jr.’s assist for the match-winning goal, drawing criticism from fans online.
Сheck out news that is picked ➡️ click on “Recommended for you” and enjoy!
Source: YEN.com.gh
