Ancelotti remains upbeat about Madrid's prospects against Manchester City

 Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti expressed confidence in his team's ability to perform well against Manchester City in the upcoming Champions League match, following an exciting 3-3 draw in the first leg of the quarter-finals on Tuesday.

In last season's semi-final first leg, Madrid, the 14-time winners, drew 1-1 against Pep Guardiola's City at home but suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat at the Etihad Stadium. Despite City taking the lead twice in the recent match, Madrid fought back, leaving the game finely balanced.

Ancelotti acknowledged a slight disadvantage playing away from home but remained optimistic about replicating their performance. He highlighted the team's improved mentality compared to their previous visit to Manchester, expressing confidence in a different outcome this time.

Reflecting on the match, Ancelotti noted the initial setback of conceding a goal but praised the team's resilience in managing the situation effectively. He mentioned his intention to secure a narrow lead but emphasized the team's adaptability to any scenario in the second leg.

Bernardo Silva's free-kick initially put City ahead, but Madrid responded with a Ruben Dias own goal and Rodrygo's strike. City regained the lead through impressive goals from Phil Foden and Josko Gvardiol, only for Fede Valverde's powerful volley to salvage a draw for Madrid.

The winning team would progress to the semi-final.