Carlo Ancelotti praised Real Madrid’s resilience following their tense 3-2 victory over Celta Vigo on Sunday.
The result keeps their La Liga title hopes alive ahead of a decisive El Clasico clash with Barcelona.
Los Blancos raced to a 3-0 lead at the Santiago Bernabeu thanks to Arda Guler’s composed opener and a clinical brace from Kylian Mbappe.
However, defensive frailties allowed the visitors to claw back two goals and push Madrid to the brink.
Speaking after the match, Ancelotti admitted his side lost control late on but credited their ability to withstand pressure.
“We had the game in hand, but after 3-0 we struggled,” he said. “We allowed them back in, but we held on, and that’s what matters.”
The Italian pointed to defensive absences as a key reason for Madrid’s shaky finish, noting that six defenders were unavailable and rotation was inevitable.
With the gap to league leaders Barcelona still at four points, Ancelotti turned attention to next weekend’s showdown at Montjuic, calling it ‘almost a decisive match’.
“We have to win,” he added. “If we do, the title race is wide open. One point behind with several games left gives us real chances.”
Despite the stakes, Ancelotti urged his players to approach the Clasico with focus, not pressure.
“We played them a week ago and were close to winning,” he noted. “We don’t need drama. It’s a serious match, and we’re ready.”
The coach highlighted Mbappe’s role as pivotal to unlocking Barcelona’s high line.
“If his movements are right, he can be decisive,” he said. “It’s up to us to use that.”
Rodrygo’s availability remains uncertain due to illness, though Ancelotti expressed hope he would recover in time.
He also praised Guler’s development after a standout performance and suggested he could compete for a starting spot against Barca.
“He’s grown mentally and physically,” Ancelotti said. “The Guler of today is more mature, and he’s ready.”
Jude Bellingham’s late-game misunderstanding with Vinicius Jr was chalked up to fatigue, with the manager defending the English midfielder’s tireless effort.
Ancelotti reserved special praise for Thibaut Courtois, calling him one of the best goalkeepers he has ever worked with, alongside Gianluigi Buffon, Dida and Iker Casillas.
“If we beat Barcelona, the title race is back on,” he concluded. “That is all the motivation we need.”
