Online Reporter
REAL MADRID coach Carlo Ancelotti said his team will no longer play matches after less than 72 hours’ rest because of the physical strain it puts on players.
Following Real’s 2-1 comeback win at Villarreal, thanks to Kylian Mbappe’s brace, the coach was concerned about his side’s physical condition following Wednesday’s shootout win over Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.
“I think today is the last time we will play a game before 72 hours. We will never play a game with less than that,” Ancelotti told a press conference.
“The team is exhausted, but that was to be expected. It’s a victory that says a lot about our squad and the resources we have.”
Ancelotti noted that his club had contacted LaLiga about the scheduling conflicts but had yet to receive an answer.
“The important thing for us was to win today, tomorrow I will watch the game but as a football fan. The result doesn’t matter,” Ancelotti said.
The hosts opened the scoring in the seventh minute when Alex Baena’s corner was deflected by Aurelien Tchouameni, allowing Juan Foyth to score from close range.
Real Madrid levelled 10 minutes later when Mbappe pounced on Brahim Diaz’s blocked shot and the ball landed at his feet for a close-range finish.
Six minutes later, the French international scored his 20th league goal of the season, latching on to Lucas Vazquez’s through ball and slotting home.
Mbappe had a chance to complete his hat-trick in the second half when he latched onto Vinicius Jr’s through ball, but the offside flag was raised. — Reuters.
