Ancelotti talks about Vinicius, Rodrygo, Vazquez, half-time talk after Real Madrid 5-2 Borussia Dortmund

After Real Madrid's exciting 5-2 win over Borussia Dortmund, coach Carlo Ancelotti went to the Santiago Bernabeu press room to talk about his team's intense and challenging game.

Despite the win, it was clear that the team is going through a difficult period, which Ancelotti acknowledged in his post-match analysis.

In his summary of the game, Ancelotti highlighted the team's different performances in each half. He noted that there was a lack of energy and aggression in the first half and the team seemed a bit timid.

“After the break we changed the system and the team was more intense” he began to say

“In the first half we were more tentative and it was pretty clear what we had to do and the team did very well by showing more intensity. It was the best second half for the team.”

Ancelotti's assessment

Although the team was organized, there was a lack of pressure on the ball, so Borussia Dortmund were able to score two goals without becoming too dangerous.

During the half-time break, Ancelotti decided to change the system, which led to a much more intense performance in the second half.

“There was order, but there was a lack of pressure on the ball. And so they scored two goals against us without creating much danger.

“The team was balanced, even in the first half, but there was a lack of pressure. And we put it on the second line.”

He urged his players to focus on the finer details of the game, such as precise passes, effective crosses and winning one-on-one duels.

According to Ancelotti, this change in attitude helped shift the momentum in their favor, starting with the first goal of the second half, which made the difference in turning the game around.

“I said that you might think that returning would be a utopia, but we should focus on the small details.

“Don’t miss any passes, make good crosses, win duels. When you win duels, the dynamics of the game change. And with the double victory that changed.” he remarked.

Vinicius will win the Ballon d'Or

When Ancelotti spoke about Vinicius Jr., he acknowledged the young Brazilian's impact. He explained that while Vinicius had faced criticism, including boos from the crowd, his ability to make an impact on the pitch was undeniable.

“I think he is recognized in Spain. They whistle it because it makes a difference. With it he stops the issue of racism and enjoys respect. They whistle it and it’s normal.”

He expressed his belief that Vinicius will win the Ballon d'Or for his incredible performance last season, even if this game wasn't his best.

“What I can say about Vinicius is that it's rare that he has a second half like him. He had exceptional energy and character.

“He will win the Ballon d'Or for what he did last year, not for what he did tonight. That will serve him well at the next Ballon d'Or,” he added.

Lucas Vazquez and Rodrygo

Ancelotti praised Lucas Vazquez for his contribution to the team, particularly the goal that sparked their comeback.

He admitted that Vazquez has more problems defensively, but his offensive work and his ability to create space had a significant impact on the game.

“He scored the goal that turned the game around. I ask him to work offensively and defense is a little more difficult for him, which is normal. But he gives us a lot of space. He scored a great goal.”

On Rodrygo's situation, Ancelotti confirmed that the player had suffered a muscle injury after making a spectacular run that contributed to the team's third goal. Although the injury is unfortunate, Ancelotti accepted it as part of the game.

“He has a muscle injury. He had a spectacular run when the third goal came… It's a shame but it is what it is.” he concluded.

Source: AS