Carlo Ancelotti says Real Madrid are determined to reach another UEFA Champions League final, although Bayern Munich stands in their way in the semi-final on Tuesday night at the Allianz Arena.
The Meringues are the record winners of Europe’s premium club competition, with 14 titles. However, they face a tough task over two legs against one of the best sides in European Football history. Bayern Munich.
Speaking in a pre-match interview ahead of the first-leg clash in Germany, Ancelotti expressed his confidence in his team, believing that although Bayern have the quality to cause Madrid problems, Los Blancos will always edge their rivals to eventually make the final.
“It is a semifinal. We know we play against a rival that has weapons, quality, they’re very strong. We are very happy to be here. I think very few thought we would have been here today. The goal is to play another final”, he said.
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Ancelotti also conveyed his admiration for Bayern Munich, having previously managed the German giants. He emphasised that despite Bayern facing challenges domestically this season, their rich history in the competition should not be overlooked.
“We have a lot of respect for Bayern. They were spectacular against Arsenal and we look at those games, not their season in the Bundesliga. You have to take into account their history in the Champions League, that’s a big factor”.
Whichever team emerges victorious in Tuesday’s match will remain cautious not to become complacent ahead of the second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu. Everything will be at stake as they compete for a spot in the final.
