Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelloti believes his team’s fortunes have improved and that the defending champions are now in a strong position heading into their Champions League matchup against Atalanta, Soccernet.football reports.
Los Blancos are finally finding their feet in LaLiga, trailing leaders Barcelona by just two points with a game in hand. However, their Champions League campaign has been far less consistent, having suffered three losses in five matches.
Currently 24th in the group standings, Ancelloti’s men face a crucial test on Tuesday against fifth-placed Atalanta. A defeat in Bergamo would see Madrid become the first reigning UCL champion to suffer a three-game losing streak in the following season.
As things stand, the Spanish giants are in desperate need of a win in order to at least ensure that they can secure a playoff place. While Ancelloti acknowledged his side’s current predicament, he remains confident in their qualification chances.
“That is nothing more at stake than three important points that will help us to qualify,” the Italian told reporters as quoted by beIN Sports.
“Unfortunately we will have to play an extra round, but that’s it, I have a lot of confidence in my team. Things have improved, we are now in a good dynamic and will keep improving as we move forward.
“Tomorrow’s game could be the most difficult one between now and the end of the year. We are worried about finding a good strategy to beat a very tough opponent like Atalanta, but nothing more.”
Atalanta currently lead the way in Serie A and have gone nine games unbeaten in all competitions. As a result, Ancelloti is anticipating a tougher test this time around than they faced in that 2-0 victory over the Nerazzurri in the UEFA Super Cup.
“Atalanta are doing very well, they have improved a lot compared to the Super Cup. They’re on a roll and they’re full of enthusiasm but that gives us a chance to go out there and prove a point while earning three important points,” he said.
“They are a great team, a club that does a spectacular job despite losing a lot of players every summer. They always find ways to adapt and that says a lot about who they are.”