Difficult wake-up call for the Merengue at the start of the week. Badly beaten by Atlético de Madrid (3-1) at the Wanda Metropolitano, Jude Bellingham’s teammates fell on a bone Sunday evening. For the first time this season, Real fell in the league and ended its unbeaten streak. The fault lies with a great Alvaro Morata, an XXL Antoine Griezmann and a Madrid defense that suffered throughout the match. At a press conference, Carlo Ancelotti was not kind to his team even if he takes responsibility for this disillusionment.
“The system has not changed, we come out with a diamond, as always. But we didn’t start well, we didn’t defend well. And when they lead 2-0… they have already played the match they wanted”, comments the Italian. The latter points the finger at his defense: “They were photocopied (the goals). The central defenders did not position themselves well in the box. But the fact that Atleti is one of the best defending teams in Spain also makes a difference. They are strong in duels, it is not easy to find spaces. There was a lack of efficiency from outside, but I maintain that today the problem was defensive and not offensive.» Carlo Ancelotti concludes: “I think I could have done better. Obviously, when the team doesn’t work, it’s my responsibility. But I have a very strong back (to withstand criticism). No problem. Taking responsibility is the minimum.”
