Real Madrid’s head coach Carlo Ancelotti has given his comments on the defeat in the Spanish Championship match against Espanyol (0:1).
Ancelotti stated that the decision by the referee and VAR not to issue a red card to Romero for a foul was incomprehensible. He emphasized the importance of protecting players, calling the foul a clear and reckless tackle with a risk of injury. He expressed relief that there were no serious consequences but insisted on the need for VAR to address such situations, deeming the decision not to show a red card inexplicable.
Ancelotti described the game as difficult and intense. He acknowledged that Real Madrid played well in some aspects, controlling the game, especially in the second half. He mentioned a disallowed goal, hitting the post, and taking 20 shots on goal. Despite controlling the match, he admitted that Espanyol, with their excellent counter-attacking strategy, caught them off guard and scored. He concluded that Espanyol successfully played the game they intended.
Real Madrid, with 49 points, continues to lead La Liga. This defeat marks Carlo Ancelotti’s team’s first loss in the league in 2025. Before this, their last league defeat was on December 4th against Athletic Bilbao.
Espanyol, now with 23 points, has moved up to 17th place in the league table.
Vihaan Mehrotra