MADRID’s Champions League Journey: A Rollercoaster Ride
If Kylian Mbappé’s Champions League masterclass for Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday had Real Madrid fans dreaming about the future, Madrid’s limp 1-1 draw with RB Leipzig a day later brought them crashing back down to earth. Madrid narrowly scraped through to the quarterfinals 2-1 on aggregate, but their flat performance raised concerns about their attacking and defensive capabilities.
Madrid’s Struggles and Bellingham’s Brilliance
A team with more quality than Leipzig might have exploited Madrid’s vulnerabilities. To challenge top teams like Manchester City, Madrid needs a significant improvement. However, Jude Bellingham’s impact has been a bright spot, contributing consistently in the Champions League.
Match Analysis and Tactical Decisions
The pre-match atmosphere at the Santiago Bernabeu was subdued, reflecting Madrid’s need to protect their first-leg lead. Coach Carlo Ancelotti’s conservative team selection failed to create enough chances in the first half. Bellingham’s role as a “false nine” limited Madrid’s attacking threat until tactical adjustments were made.
Late Drama and Quarterfinal Qualification
Bellingham’s creativity led to Vinicius Júnior’s crucial goal, but Leipzig’s equalizer added tension to the match. Madrid held on to their one-goal lead, securing a spot in the quarterfinals. Despite their inconsistent performances in recent months, Madrid’s resilience has been a key factor in their Champions League journey.