Carlo Ancelotti expressed disappointment in Real Madrid’s defensive performance and overall game after suffering a 5-2 defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final.
Ancelotti, a two-time Super Cup winner, found a positive in Kylian Mbappe’s early goal but was critical of the team’s defensive lapses as Barcelona scored through Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, and Alejandro Balde to lead 4-1 at halftime.
“We should have played football, but we failed to do so in the first half,” Ancelotti told Movistar. “I told the players that we could accept losing, but not in the manner we did in the first half.”
Madrid vs Barcelona
After Raphinha’s goal made it 4-1 in the 48th minute, Madrid received a lifeline when Barca’s goalkeeper was sent off for impeding Mbappe. However, Rodrygo’s free-kick goal in the 60th minute was as close as Madrid’s comeback got, with Barcelona ultimately avenging their previous defeat.
“We have to face reality,” Ancelotti acknowledged. “Our defensive performance was poor, and we didn’t function well as a team or individually.”
“The disappointment is shared with our fans. The team lacked cohesion and defensive solidity. It was a below-par performance from start to finish. Even with a man advantage, we couldn’t create opportunities. I am disappointed with the entire game.”
La Liga: Madrid fixtures
Real Madrid currently sit five points ahead of Barcelona in La Liga, with Atletico Madrid leading the pack by a further point.
The team is set to face Celta Vigo in the Copa del Rey round of 16 on Thursday and will host Las Palmas in the league on Sunday.
“There is still a long season ahead, and we must stay focused,” Ancelotti commented. “We will regroup, reflect, and prepare for the upcoming fixtures.”