Carlo Ancelotti praised his players for their contribution to the team and said the win gave them confidence

Real Madrid successfully defeated Atletico Madrid 2-1 in the first leg of the Champions League round of 16. Coach Carlo Ancelotti attended the press conference and praised the players for their outstanding performance.  

Carlo Ancelotti said: "I saw the players give their all and Rodrigo Goes and Brahim Dias made important contributions to the team. They are really great because they work so hard and play a key role for the team."  

"Throughout the game we didn't press too much but that wasn't our intention. At times Atletico controlled the game and at other times we controlled the game.  

“These games are close. This is the last 16, but it could also be a semi-final or a final. We are facing the best teams in Europe and we are a little bit ahead, and we are a little happy with this small advantage. This win gives us confidence for the second game, but we also know that the second game will be more difficult.”  

"Federico Valverde has been outstanding and I admire him a lot. He has done a lot for the team. In addition, Brasim Dias has also played very well and he cherishes all the playing time I give him."  

Carlo Ancelotti added: "It was not easy for us to play against Atletico Madrid's defence and we did not have many chances. They worked very hard and were very good defensively. When they were in a good position, they were able to keep the midfielders closer to the defence."  

"Eduardo Camavinga was chosen to start because he is in good shape and he feels much better. Eduardo Camavinga had a back problem and it was difficult for him to return to his previous level. However, Eduardo Camavinga appeared to inject new blood into the midfield."  

"As for Kylian Mbappe, he didn't have any physical problems. But he couldn't do much because of a toothache. Kylian Mbappe wasn't in the best shape against Betis, and these few minutes will help him be in the best shape for the next game."