Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti hailed his team’s togetherness and desire after seeing off Bayern Munich in the first leg of the Champions League semi-final.
Despite defending for much of the game as the Germans enjoyed 64% possession, Los Blancos head to the Allianz Arena on Tuesday with a 1-0 lead thanks to Karim Benzema’s first half strike.
At his press conference after the match, Ancelotti, who has won the Champions League twice as a manager, said he was delighted with the spirit in his squad, and also failed the Madridistas in the stadium for creating an amazing atmosphere.
“Everyone had a great game. The fans’ support was significant, and the atmosphere was spectacular. Our job is to do everything possible to take our fans to Lisbon,” he said, before continuing “We worked well as a unit, the players were unselfish and mentally strong. The team is full of desire, and while we might not play well all the time, the commitment among the squad members is great. The atmosphere is very positive.”
The Italian admitted that he likes his teams to have possession, but against teams like Bayern, you need to alter your tactics slightly and that the counter attack is the best approach.
“It makes sense to counter attack against Bayern. I don’t like to concede possession but against some sides it can be more difficult to have the ball. I like to hold onto possession because as long as you have it your opponent can’t score,” he said.
And looking forward to the return match, the boss said it would a tough match, but that his players would do all they can to reach the final in Lisbon.
“The second leg will be very difficult. We have a slight advantage and will have to play as confidently as we have done tonight. There’s no telling what might happen there, but I am confident. We know we’ll be made to suffer, but we’ll be full of fighting spirit and give it our all, just like we have done today.”
