"UCL is the competition we all like the most": Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti
Oct 24, 2023
Braga [Portugal], October 24 : Ahead of the UEFA Champions League (UCL) match between Braga and Real Madrid on Wednesday at Braga Municipal Stadium, the Los Merengues head coach Carlos Ancelotti said that the Whites like to perform at the UCL.
While speaking at the pre-match press conference, Ancelotti was asked about the team's confidence ahead of the UCL clash. To which the Italian coach said that it is an important game and beginning a game without fear is a positive sign.
Ancelotti also added that he has full respect for the Portuguese side and said that Braga's attack has been very well and that they have scored a lot of goals in recent games.
"It's an important aspect. Beginning a game without fear is positive, but we have to respect our opponents, who attack very well and have scored a lot of goals in recent games. I have the utmost respect, but it's a fantastic opportunity to put the group stage firmly on track," Ancelotti said.
The Los Blancos head coach was asked about five UCL titles and four league crowns in 12 seasons, to which Ancelotti replied, that the Champions League is very important for Real Madrid and the club is always focused on this competition.
Ancelotti added that the club look forward and not backwards.
"This competition is very important for Real Madrid and this club has placed a lot of focus on this competition. This is the one we all like the most: the club, players and coaches. It's a special competition and we have to look forward and not backwards," Ancelotti added.
Ancelotti was asked about the upcoming El Clasico match between Real Madrid and Barcelona, Ancelotti said that the team is more focused on the upcoming game against Braga.
"We've never talked about the next game we have in the league, we're focused and dedicated to the one we're playing right now. The players are making the most of it and recovering well to get to full strength for tomorrow's game, which is the most important one at the moment. As I said, it's a great opportunity to get the group firmly on track and we have to make the most of it," he added.
The 14-time UCL winners are in their red-hot form this season and are unbeaten in their previous five encounters. However, in their previous match, Ancelotti's side had to share points with Sevilla after the scoreline ended at 1-1.
On the other hand, Madroid's opponents Braga are also unbeaten in their last five matches and will be full of confidence before they lock horns against the Los Blancos.
The match between Real Madrid and Braga will kick off at 12:30 AM IST on Wednesday.