Real Madrid:
Real Madrid managed to squeak by RB Leipzig in the Champions League, securing a 1-1 draw in the second leg and advancing with a 2-1 aggregate victory. Despite not playing their best, the 14-time champions scraped through against their Bundesliga opponents.
The game saw Vinicius Junior scoring for Madrid in the 65th minute, thanks to a nice setup by Jude Bellingham. However, Leipzig quickly responded with Willi Orban equalizing shortly after. Despite Leipzig’s dominance, they couldn’t find another goal to force extra time.
Madrid’s coach Carlo Ancelotti wasn’t pleased with his team’s performance, mentioning their low intensity and mental approach. He admitted Leipzig’s quality and stressed the importance of making it to the quarter-finals despite the struggle.
Ancelotti’s tactical move, deploying four midfielders behind Bellingham and Vinicius, aimed to protect their first-leg lead. But it also restricted Madrid’s attacking play without completely shutting down Leipzig.
The second half was tense, with both teams pushing for a decisive goal. Vinicius, after a quiet start, scored a crucial goal for Madrid. But Leipzig’s Orban quickly equalized, setting up a nail-biting finish.
Madrid’s goalkeeper Andriy Lunin made crucial saves to deny Leipzig’s attempts. In the end, Madrid held on and secured their spot in the quarter-finals, although it was a nervy performance.
Madrid’s captain, Nacho Fernandez, admitted they didn’t play well but highlighted the importance of qualification. Now, they’re focused on the quarter-finals, aiming to fix their mistakes and continue their Champions League journey.
Despite not being at their best, Real Madrid’s determination saw them through this tough match. They’ll take the lessons learned into the next round, knowing there are more challenges ahead as they chase European glory.