Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti expressed his confidence in his team’s ability to overcome Bayern Munich in the Champions League semifinals. Madrid secured a 2-2 draw in the first leg with Vinicius Junior scoring two goals. Ancelotti stated that the team’s history and fan support make him confident in their chances. However, he acknowledged that Bayern coach Thomas Tuchel also has a strong team.
Ancelotti admitted that Bayern was the better side in the first leg and the two clubs have similar histories of success in the Champions League. Despite Thibaut Courtois returning from injury, Ancelotti confirmed that Andriy Lunin would start in goal. Madrid defender Dani Carvajal emphasized the team’s focus on the upcoming crucial matches and the decision to delay celebrations until after the Champions League games.
Madrid’s success comes amidst uncertainty with several long-standing players potentially leaving the club at the end of the season. Luka Modric, Toni Kroos, Lucas Vazquez, and Nacho Fernandez are all out of contract in the summer, leading to speculation about their futures. Carvajal expressed hope for a victory in what could be the last Champions League match for some of these players at the Bernabeu.
Madrid clinched the La Liga title over the weekend but chose to postpone celebrations to focus on the remaining Champions League matches. The team is determined to lift the Champions League trophy for the 15th time and the players are receiving encouragement from fans on the streets. With Ancelotti’s guidance and the players’ determination, Madrid aims to achieve success in the upcoming crucial fixtures.