Ancelotti's Halftime Masterstroke
Carlo Ancelotti revealed he sternly reprimanded a Real Madrid player at half-time during their Champions League final win over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley, criticizing the team's lack of effort. Despite being outplayed in the first half, Real Madrid scored twice in the second half, securing a 2-0 victory with goals from Dani Carvajal and Vinicius Junior. Ancelotti, who has won a record five Champions League titles, expressed dissatisfaction with his team's first-half performance, having warned them about playing with fear.
Half-Time Adjustments
During half-time, Ancelotti gave specific instructions to Vinicius Junior, reprimanding him for the team's lazy performance and uncharacteristic errors. He clarified that he did not need to get angry but needed to explain a few things. Dortmund's effective transitions had disrupted Real Madrid's balance, leading to numerous lost balls in the opponent's half.
Ancelotti decided to change the system by concentrating more players in midfield. He started with Federico Valverde on the right, later switching to Rodrygo, and then brought Valverde back to join Eduardo Camavinga and Toni Kroos, which improved their performance in the second half.
Unrelenting Ambition
Ancelotti emphasized that Real Madrid's hunger for trophies remains insatiable. He assured that there is no danger of complacency within the team, as the club demands continuous success. He expressed excitement about celebrating with fans and mentioned that after a brief rest, the players would return with the same eagerness and excitement as before, especially with many participating in the upcoming Euros and Copa America.
Celebration and Reflection
Dani Carvajal, Luka Modric, Nacho, and the soon-to-retire Toni Kroos joyously celebrated their sixth European Cup victory. As Kroos eyes retirement following the home Euros with Germany, Coach Carlo Ancelotti remains hopeful that the midfield maestro might reconsider. Ancelotti lauded Kroos's legendary contributions to the team and emphasized that the door remains open for his return should he choose to extend his illustrious career.
