Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has called out Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola for downplaying his team’s chances of advancing to the Champions League last 16. Despite City’s struggles this season, Ancelotti believes Guardiola’s claim that they have only a one percent chance of ousting Madrid is insincere.
Madrid holds a 3-2 lead over City ahead of their second-leg matchup on Wednesday. Ancelotti is confident in his team’s abilities, but acknowledges that they don’t have a 99 percent chance of winning. He’s focused on maintaining their small advantage and replicating their successful strategy from the first leg.
In other news, defender Antonio Rudiger is set to return from injury, while Lucas Vazquez will start on the bench. Ancelotti also expressed his frustration with Spanish refereeing, preferring the more consistent and high-quality officiating in the Champions League.
Meanwhile, England international Jude Bellingham was sent off for dissent during Madrid’s 1-1 draw against Osasuna. His teammate Federico Valverde defended Bellingham’s passionate play, saying that he wants players who give their all on the pitch.
