Carlo Ancelotti said Real Madrid and Napoli showed ‘no holding back’ in a six-goal thriller, while he identifies the only Jude Bellingham fault. ‘Nobody’s perfect!’
Giovanni Simeone had opened the scoring at the Bernabeu, turned around by Rodrygo and Bellingham, before Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa equalised at the dawn of the second half.
A draw here would’ve qualified the Partenopei for the Champions League Round of 16, but late on Nicolas Paz and Joselu completed the 4-2 rout.
“It was a very open game from both teams, no holding back, many goals and opportunities. When it felt like fatigue was setting in, we found fresh energy to bring the result home,” Ancelotti told Sky Sport Italia.
Nicolas Paz came off the bench and helped Real Madrid with his first goal for the senior squad, although he was aided by an Alex Meret howler when it bounced right in front of him.
“He was born in 2004 and one of the talented players who is working with Raul in the youth team. We were a bit short-staffed, so he gave us a hand.”
Bellingham was on target yet again, this time with a towering header, but it was pointed out to Ancelotti that the England international lost Giovanni Di Lorenzo for the opening Napoli goal. Has a fault finally been found in this extraordinary player?
“He could’ve been helped out by Mendy, who got too central, but nobody’s perfect!”
Real Madrid are top of their group with a 100 per cent record after five games and were able to keep going despite missing eight first team players.
“I think the key is the atmosphere that reigns in the locker room, with players who are very focused and very professional. I think that makes the difference in nights like this.”
Ancelotti also spoke to Amazon Prime Video Italia after the match and was asked about his future, whether that is a new contract with Real Madrid or the Brazil job.
“Can you ask a different question?” was his response with the trademark raised eyebrow.