Real Madrid: Ancelotti’s Scathing Reaction to Mbappé After Barça’s Slap

Reaction to Mbappé After Barça’s Defeat

Real Madrid suffered another heavy defeat in the Spanish Super Cup final, losing 5-2 to arch-rivals FC Barcelona. Although they took an early lead, the Merengues were overwhelmed by Barcelona’s relentless offensive, leaving Saudi Arabia empty-handed and fans questioning the team’s future.

The match began positively for Madrid when Kylian Mbappé scored a remarkable goal in the 5th minute. However, Barcelona quickly responded with a stunning solo effort from 16-year-old Lamine Yamal, equalizing in the 22nd minute. The game then became one-sided, with Robert Lewandowski (36′), Raphinha (39′), and Alejandro Baldé (45+10′) scoring to give Barcelona a commanding 4-1 lead at halftime.

Despite a brilliant free kick from Rodrygo in the 60th minute, which briefly gave Madrid hope, Barcelona sealed their 15th Spanish Super Cup title. For Real Madrid, it was another painful reminder of their struggles against top-tier teams, with the fallout from this loss casting a long shadow over the club.

In his post-match comments, head coach Carlo Ancelotti expressed frustration and disappointment. “It was a bad evening. We are sad, as are our fans. It is a disappointment we must accept. In football, there are victories and defeats, but we must learn from them,” Ancelotti said. The Italian coach did not shy away from acknowledging the team’s defensive failures, admitting, “We defended badly, whether in the high press or the low block. That allowed them to score too easily.” He also revealed his stern halftime message: “I told them we could lose, but not like this.”

While praising Mbappé as Madrid’s standout player, Ancelotti lamented the lack of support from the rest of the squad. “Mbappé was exceptional, but football is a collective sport. We need everyone to step up, and tonight, that wasn’t the case.”

The Spanish press was scathing in its evaluation of Ancelotti’s tactical decisions. Prominent sports daily Sport criticized Real Madrid’s failure to perform against elite opposition, stating, “Real Madrid has been strong in lesser fixtures, but when they face teams like Barcelona or Liverpool, their system collapses.”

Madrid’s defense, led by Antonio Rüdiger, Lucas Vázquez, and Aurélien Tchouaméni, faced heavy criticism for being unable to stop Barcelona’s attacking force. Fans and analysts also questioned Ancelotti’s decision to stick with a conservative lineup instead of incorporating younger, more energetic players like Brahim Díaz or Arda Güler.

This latest defeat has reignited speculation about Ancelotti’s future at the club. With important fixtures in La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Champions League coming up, the Italian coach faces significant pressure to reverse the team’s fortunes.

The defeat has also highlighted deeper concerns regarding the squad’s structure. Jude Bellingham’s advanced role left the midfield exposed, and Vinícius Jr. continues to struggle to regain his form. Frustrated fans pointed fingers at Ancelotti for not trusting younger talents and relying too heavily on experienced players like Tchouaméni and Vázquez.

Ancelotti’s time at Real Madrid has had its highs and lows, but this loss has amplified criticism from his detractors. “He is our misfortune tonight,” one fan wrote, capturing the growing discontent among supporters.

Looking ahead, Real Madrid faces more challenges, with a Copa del Rey clash against Celta Vigo just days after this humiliating defeat, followed by crucial league and Champions League matches. Every misstep will only add to the mounting pressure.

Despite the setback, Ancelotti attempted to project resilience, stating, “We cannot dwell on this result. We have to regroup, analyze our mistakes, and focus on what lies ahead.” The team’s ability to respond will be crucial, as the stakes remain high for the season.

This defeat also highlighted the shifting balance in Spanish football. Barcelona’s rise under new leadership, backed by young talents like Yamal, presents a significant challenge to Real Madrid’s dominance.

For Los Blancos, restoring their reputation as Europe’s top club will require more than just tactical changes—it will necessitate a cultural shift within the team.

The coming weeks will be pivotal in shaping Real Madrid’s season. For now, however, the sting of this Clasico loss lingers, leaving both the club and its fans grappling with uncertainty.

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