According to Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti, there was a strong belief within the team that they would emerge victorious against Manchester City in a penalty shootout.
The first leg of the Champions League quarter-final ended in a 3-3 draw in Spain, followed by a 1-1 stalemate at the Etihad.
After a goalless extra time, the match proceeded to a shootout where both Bernardo Silva and Mateo Kovacic failed to convert their penalties.
Reflecting on the match, Ancelotti stated to Movistar, “We had a good start, took the lead, and then had to battle to survive. We were put under pressure as we defended deep against City’s control.”
“As the penalty shootout approached, we were fully confident of advancing,” he added.
“Our defensive performance was exceptional tonight. It was a test of survival. Madrid has a history of fighting until the end in seemingly impossible situations – and we always manage to find a way through.”