Real Madrid Faces Pressure Ahead of Champions League Derby Against Atlético

Coach Carlo Ancelotti issues stern warning after recent league struggles and squad challenges ahead of pivotal first-leg clash.

Real Madrid is preparing to host Atlético Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League Round of 16 matchup at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium on Tuesday night.
Coach Carlo Ancelotti has criticized his team’s recent performance, particularly after a 1-2 loss to Betis Sevilla in La Liga, which saw Real drop to third place in the standings.
Key player Jude Bellingham is unavailable for the match due to suspension, while Kylian Mbappé's fitness remains a concern following a recent dental surgery.
Atlético Madrid enters the match in better form, having surpassed Real in the league standings and maintaining a two-point advantage over their city rivals.
The second leg of the derby will take place next week at Atlético’s Estadio Metropolitano, with Real Madrid aiming to defend their Champions League title amidst growing scrutiny of Ancelotti's leadership.