As the 2024/25 season enters its critical final weeks, Real Madrid with Ancelotti has set its sights firmly on domestic competition, with the La Liga title still within reach. With Barcelona leading the way in the league standings, Madrid finds itself just four points behind the Catalan giants, with only six matches left to play.
A dramatic 1-0 win over Athletic Bilbao, thanks to a last-minute goal by Fede Valverde, has helped revive the spirits of the team after their disappointing exit from the UEFA Champions League. This victory not only kept their La Liga hopes alive but also gave the squad renewed confidence as they approach the final stretch of the season.
In addition tо thе Lа Lіgа bаttlе, Mаdrіd іѕ ѕеt tо fасе Barcelona іn thе Cора dеl Rеу final on Aрrіl 26. Wіth both Carlo Anсеlоttі aiming for a dоmеѕtіс dоublе аnd Hаnѕі Flісk chasing hіѕ own trеblе іn his first ѕеаѕоn at Barcelona, thе mаtсh promises tо bе a hіghlу аntісіраtеd ѕhоwdоwn between twо of Sраіn’ѕ most рrеѕtіgіоuѕ сlubѕ.
Ancelotti With Tactical Approach: The Reliance on 4-4-2
Carlo Ancelotti has signaled that he will be relying heavily on his preferred 4-4-2 formation in the coming crucial matches, including the upcoming Copa del Rey final. The Italian manager, renowned for his tactical flexibility, believes this system offers the best defensive balance for his team.
Ancelotti explained that the 4-4-2 is a flexible setup that can be adjusted depending on the players at his disposal. For example, Vinicius Junior or Rodrygo could be positioned on the wings to exploit their speed and creativity. In certain situations, Ancelotti even suggested that the formation could be adapted to include six midfielders. And if the need arises, particularly when using two attacking midfielders to support the forwards.
“4-4-2 is my favorite system. I really like it because it is the most solid defensively,” Ancelotti said in an interview with Diario AS. “But this doesn’t necessarily mean I have to play with four central midfielders. Sometimes, Vinicius can play on the left wing, or Rodrygo on the right. It could even involve six midfielders if we have two attacking ones.”
Player Rotation and Preparation for the Final
Ahead of their match against Athletic Club, Ancelotti made a number of changes to his starting lineup, notably bringing in Luka Modric and Dani Ceballos in midfield. This tactical shift was intended to provide greater control over the game, ensuring Madrid maintained possession and dictating the tempo.
Endrick, the young Brazilian forward, also got a chance to feature in the match, providing extra attacking firepower. Ancelotti emphasized that this rotation was designed to ensure that his key players were well-rested and fully prepared for the upcoming Copa del Rey final against Barcelona.
“I played Mоdrіс аnd Cеbаllоѕ tо hаvе bеttеr control оf the gаmе. Dani has just recovered from an injury, and we brought Endrick on to add pressure to the attack,” Ancelotti explained. “Now we have enough time to prepare for the final. This victory was crucial for us.”
A Tough Test in the Copa del Rey Final
The Copa del Rey final in Sevilla will undoubtedly be a significant challenge for both Real Madrid and Barcelona. Each team has a strong desire to claim this trophy. Not only for the silverware but also as a morale booster going into the final phase of the season. For Madrid, a win would provide an important psychological edge ahead of the final stretch in La Liga.
Ancelotti, however, remained tight-lipped about his specific tactical plans for the final. While he didn’t go into detail about his strategy yet. He always use of the 4-4-2 system and player rotation in recent games suggests that he is preparing a well-thought-out approach for the final.
“We have time to prepare everything. This win gives us confidence going into the final,” Ancelotti added, focusing on the importance of the victory against Athletic Bilbao.
With the momentum from this important win. Real Madrid hopes to continue building on their success before the heated clash with Barcelona at Camp Nou on May 11. That match, which could be pivotal for both teams’ La Liga ambitions. And also promises to be an epic encounter, adding more intensity to an already fierce season-ending battle.
Madrid’s Ultimate Goal with Ancelotti: A Strong Finish to the Season
Real Madrid’s objectives are clear: secure a domestic double by winning the Copa del Rey and putting up a strong challenge for the La Liga title. With only a handful of matches left, and with Barcelona still leading. So every point in the league and every tactical decision will be critical. Ancelotti’s experience and his ability to manage his squad through these high-pressure moments. It will be key as Madrid looks to end the season on a high note.
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