Real Madrid's struggles in the Champions League reflect a broader trend of inconsistency this season, particularly in high-pressure matches.
The defeat against AC Milan raises questions about the team's tactical approach and the integration of new star players like Kylian Mbappé.
If Real Madrid fails to secure points in their upcoming matches, they could face a significant risk of not qualifying for the knockout stages of the Champions League.
The performance of key players like Mbappé and Vinícius Jr. will be crucial in determining the team's success in the remaining group matches.
Real Madrid Faces Defeat Against AC Milan in Champions League Clash
In a surprising turn of events during the fourth round of the Champions League, Real Madrid suffered a 3-1 defeat at home against AC Milan at the Santiago Bernabéu. The match highlighted the ongoing struggles of the Madrid team, who have now recorded two losses in their last four matches in the competition, leaving them in a precarious position in the standings.
The match began with AC Milan taking an early lead, as Malick Thiaw scored with a header from a corner in the 11th minute. Despite a brief resurgence from Real Madrid, with Vinícius Jr. equalizing from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute, Milan quickly regained control. Álvaro Morata capitalized on a rebound to put Milan ahead again just before halftime, leading to boos from the frustrated home crowd.
In the second half, Tijjani Reijnders sealed the victory for Milan, scoring the third goal in the 73rd minute. Real Madrid's attack, featuring stars Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Jr., struggled to make an impact, with Mbappé failing to score in his last six matches. The team's defensive issues were also evident, particularly with Aurélien Tchouaméni's performance, which led to his substitution at halftime.
As a result, Real Madrid now sits in 17th place with just six points from four matches, a stark contrast to their usual dominance in the tournament. With tough upcoming fixtures against Liverpool and Atalanta, the pressure is mounting on Carlo Ancelotti's squad to turn their fortunes around.
Champions League Format Adds Pressure on Real Madrid
The current Champions League format, which features an eight-match league phase, has intensified the competition. Only the top eight teams will qualify for the knockout stages, while those finishing ninth to 24th will face playoff matches. Real Madrid's position is concerning, as they must navigate challenging matches ahead, including a visit to a formidable Liverpool team that has won all four of its group matches.
Fans and analysts are questioning the effectiveness of Real Madrid's star players, particularly Mbappé and Vinícius Jr., whose performances have not met expectations. The upcoming matches will be critical for the Merengues as they seek to reclaim their status in European football and avoid an early exit from the tournament.
