Real Madrid did what many expereciend pundits didn't expect them to do against Manchester City – win and progress to Champions League semi-final.
But Los Blancos were made to suffer for the win, no thanks to the tactics of Carlo Ancelotti. The Italian set up his team in a 4-4-2 shape with Rodrygo on the left and Vinicius as a false nine.
In midfield, Fede Valverde stayed on the right with Kroos on the left. Camavinga started as the pivot with Bellingham playing his usual role.
But Ancelotti didn't set up his team to attack. Instead Los Blancos were to sit deep and wait for the counter. The heavens smiled on Madrid when one of their first breaks led to the opener. It was that usual combination again, Bellingham – Valverde – Vinicius – Rodrygo – GOAL!
After that goal, Madrid simply surrendered the idea of contesting for possession. It was simply surrendered to the hosts with City shifting the ball from side to side looking for the opening.
Madrid are not known for playing a low-block but it was exactly what Ancelotti chose. That system almost backfired when De Bruyne scored the equalizer late on and almost added a second five minutes later.
Thus, Real Madrid's biggest strength was not the tactics from the bench. Any small team can park the bus for 90 minutes and get a favourable result. It was the mentality of the Real players on such a massive occassion.
Andriy Lunin was the hero in the penalty shootout but so was every other player who stepped out and scored. What more can said about that defence featuring Nacho, Rudiger, Mendy, Carvajal. The midfield and attack worked ever so hard too.
The entire Real Madrid squad showed character, resilience and commitment to win this game. Even the substitutes didn't disappoint.
If we are to draw a lineup that shows Madrid's biggest strength in the game we will highlight the entire team:
