MADRID (AFP) – Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti is searching for the formula to take his team’s performance up several notches to get past Bayern Munich tonight and reach the Champions League final.
The Italian admitted after the 2-2 semi-final first leg draw last week in Bavaria that Real failed to find their consistent best despite earning a decent result, with the German giants largely on top.
“Bayern are very dangerous, they were at their best and we weren’t – we have time to improve for Wednesday,” Ancelotti told reporters at the Allianz Arena, after Vinicius Junior’s brace secured Madrid a draw.
Madrid come into the match on the back of sealing the La Liga title after a 3-0 win over Cadiz on Saturday, but with the Champions League second leg in the forefront of their minds, celebrations were put on ice.
Los Blancos players reported for training on Sunday morning and the players did not join fans at Plaza Cibeles, where they would usually celebrate together after earning major titles.
Record 14-time Champions League winners Real Madrid instead had their sights firmly set on extending their European domination.
“We would like to celebrate with all the fans, but they understand because tonight we have a very important challenge,” said Ancelotti.
“It’s contained joy – we have the most important game of the season coming up.”
Madrid captain Nacho Fernandez agreed with his coach.
“We’re on the verge of reaching another final, we’re going to give our all to get there – that’s why we can’t celebrate too much,” he said.
