Overview

• Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti criticized the scheduling of their La Liga match against Villarreal, giving his team only 72 hours to recover after a grueling Champions League match against Atletico Madrid.
• Ancelotti argued that television rights and money are prioritized over player recovery, highlighting the challenges of a congested football calendar this season.
• Real Madrid defeated Atletico Madrid in a penalty shootout to advance to the Champions League quarterfinals, with a controversial VAR decision disallowing Julian Alvarez's penalty kick for a double touch.
• UEFA confirmed the penalty decision was correct but announced plans to review the rule that led to the disallowance after Atletico raised concerns.
• Ancelotti stated that Real Madrid is focusing on their upcoming match against Villarreal, giving key player Vinícius Júnior an extra day of rest to ensure readiness for the game.