Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti acknowledged the intense pressure his team faces ahead of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 second-leg match against Atlético Madrid. Despite holding a 2-1 advantage from the first leg, Ancelotti emphasized the difficulty of the upcoming match at the Metropolitano Stadium. He noted that previous encounters between the two teams have been closely contested and likely to be decided by small details.
Ancelotti praised Atlético's manager, Diego Simeone, highlighting their similar football philosophies. He also stressed the importance of strategic rotations and substitutions, suggesting that well-timed changes could be decisive in the match.
Regarding player fitness, Kylian Mbappé missed most of Tuesday's training session due to muscle discomfort but joined the team for the final 30 minutes. Club officials have stated that his availability for Wednesday's match is not in jeopardy.
Ancelotti also addressed the relationship between Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior, dismissing concerns about their on-field understanding and affirming that they have a good rapport.
The match is set to be a high-stakes encounter, with both teams aiming to secure a spot in the quarter-finals of Europe's premier club competition.