Carlo Ancelotti Relying on 'Mental Toughness' to Lead Real Madrid to Victory Against Atletico Madrid in Champions League

Carlo Ancelotti has acknowledged the immense pressure facing Real Madrid in their upcoming Champions League last 16 second leg clash against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday. Despite holding a 2-1 lead from the first leg, Ancelotti knows that the derby against their city rivals will be a tough challenge. The veteran manager has expressed confidence in his players' ability to rise to the occasion and deliver a strong performance at Atletico's Metropolitano stadium. Real Madrid, with their impressive record of 15 Champions League titles, have a history of success against Atletico in Europe, including victories in the 2014 and 2016 finals. "The motivation and the pressure will be very high," Ancelotti stated during a press conference on Tuesday. "We're in good form and fully focused on the Champions League. We know it will be a difficult game, but we have the belief and confidence to progress in this prestigious competition." With the stakes high and the rivalry intense, Ancelotti and his players are gearing up for a thrilling battle on the European stage. Real Madrid will be looking to showcase their quality and determination as they aim to secure a spot in the next round of the tournament.

"It will be an even game, decided by small details, that's how (facing Atletico) has always been and it will be the same tomorrow."

The Italian coach said if the tie comes down to a penalty shoot-out, his team's mental strength will be more important than their technical ability.

"I've had players who shoot penalties very well but they didn't have the right feeling going into a shoot-out," explained Ancelotti.

"The mental aspect is more important than the technical side... I've won Champions Leagues with defenders who scored penalties."

Ancelotti, who led AC Milan to glory as a coach in 2003 and 2007, before lifting the competition with Real Madrid in 2014, 2022 and 2024, also said he did not mind if one of his players does not want to take a spot kick.

"It's not bad if someone says they don't want to take one -- you have to take the responsibility when you're feeling right," he added.

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Last season Atletico Madrid fought back in the last 16 to beat Inter Milan on penalties after losing the first leg in Italy.

Madrid striker Kylian Mbappe missed penalties against Liverpool and Athletic Bilbao towards the end of 2024 during moments of low confidence, but has hit form since.

However he failed to score in the first leg against Atletico on a quiet night for the French superstar and came in for criticism.

"Kylian wants to score in, and win, every game," said his compatriot, Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni.

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"It's wild to hear (people say) he has had difficult days because he didn't score in a couple of games, if he scores tomorrow, everyone will say he's an incredible player.

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"Kylian doesn't need advice from anyone, he's happy, he's scored a lot of goals and he will score a lot more."

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)