Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti expressed frustration after his team let a late goal slip, resulting in a 1-1 draw against rivals Atlético Madrid in a heated La Liga derby on Sunday. Despite dominating much of the match, Real Madrid were forced to settle for a single point at the Metropolitano Stadium, missing the chance to close the gap on league leaders Barcelona.
Real Madrid took the lead in the 64th minute when defender Eder Militao capitalized on a set piece to score from close range. However, the match was briefly suspended after objects were thrown onto the field by Atlético fans as Real Madrid celebrated the goal. The game was halted for 20 minutes before referee Mateo Busquets Ferrer resumed play, a decision that Carlo Ancelotti supported, emphasizing the importance of player safety.
Although Real Madrid appeared to be in control and headed for victory, Atlético Madrid managed to equalize deep into stoppage time. Substitute Ángel Correa scored the crucial goal in the 95th minute, following a swift counter-attack that caught Real Madrid’s defense off guard. The late strike stunned the visitors, who had been pushing to secure all three points.
Carlo Ancelotti, visibly frustrated, acknowledged his team’s strong performance but lamented the missed opportunity. “We controlled the game well but couldn’t finish it off. Conceding a goal in the final moments is always disappointing, especially when we were so close to winning,” he stated after the match.
Despite his disappointment, Carlo Ancelotti remained optimistic about the result, stressing that a draw away from home could still prove valuable in the long run. “I always try to think positively. We’ve gained a point away from home, and we’re still in contention for the title. This draw could be an important point later in the season,” he said.
With the draw, Real Madrid remain second in the La Liga standings with 18 points, three behind leaders Barcelona. Atlético Madrid, with 16 points, are close behind in third place, maintaining pressure on their city rivals.
Carlo Ancelotti also reflected on the suspension of the match, supporting the referee’s decision to halt play after fan disruptions. “The referee made the right call to stop the game. Player safety is always a priority, and both teams were equally affected by the pause,” he noted.
While the result was frustrating for Carlo Ancelotti and his team, Real Madrid remain firmly in the title race as the season continues to unfold.
