Real Madrid remains determined to compete for the title despite their surprising defeat, according to Ancelotti.
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has expressed his belief that his team remains in control of the LaLiga title race, despite suffering a surprising 1-0 defeat against Espanyol on Saturday. Real Madrid currently sits at the top of the Spanish league with 49 points, just one point ahead of their city rivals, Atletico Madrid, who secured a 2-0 victory over Mallorca. The two teams are scheduled to face each other in the upcoming weekend.
Speaking at a press conference, Ancelotti acknowledged that his team had opportunities to score but emphasized that they are still in the fight for the title and must focus on their next game. He also commented on the result, stating that they could have performed better and that the defeat was deserved.
The Italian coach also expressed his dissatisfaction with the decision not to issue a red card to Carlos Romero, who eventually scored the winning goal for Espanyol. Romero had made a foul on Kylian Mbappe during a breakaway attack. Ancelotti described the tackle as a clear foul and criticized its ugliness, though he expressed relief that no harm came to Mbappe.
Furthermore, defender Antonio Rudiger had to leave the pitch due to a muscle problem. Ancelotti stated that it is still too early to determine how long Rudiger will be sidelined.
“He sustained an injury, and we will need to evaluate it. It is premature to discuss it at this point. I am unable to provide you with any information at this time,” he stated.
