Football

Real Madrid's Champions League woes continued on Tuesday as they suffered a humiliating 3-1 home defeat to AC Milan. The loss marked Madrid's second in four matches and left them languishing in the middle of the table.Kylian Mbappe, who has struggled to find his best form since joining from Paris Saint-Germain, failed to score again and has now netted just once in his last six matches for Madrid. The French striker was denied by Mike Maignan in the first half and again before halftime.Milan took the lead in the 12th minute through Malick Thiaw's header from a corner. Vinicius Junior equalized from the penalty spot after being fouled by Emerson Royal, but Alvaro Morata restored Milan's lead before the break.Tijjani Reijnders sealed the victory for Milan in the second half, finishing off a superb solo run by Rafael Leao. Madrid's hopes of a comeback were dashed when Antonio Rudiger's goal was ruled offside.Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted that his team is "not giving a good account of itself" and called for improvements in compactness and organization. "We have to be worried," he said. "The team's not giving a good account of itself."Milan coach Paulo Fonseca praised his team's bravery and work rate. "The players came here with courage, didn't have any fear... in the first half we created plenty and in the second half we were on the back foot, but we fought together," he said.Madrid's next Champions League match is at Anfield against Liverpool, by when Ancelotti will hope to have solved some of his team's growing problems.

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has emphasized the importance of Kylian Mbappe's goal-scoring prowess over his defensive contributions. The Spanish giants have struggled to find their rhythm this season, and Ancelotti believes Mbappe's primary focus should be on finding the back of the net."I prefer that he scores goals than he presses," Ancelotti stated. "The central striker position in our team has not changed. I ask him the same I asked of Karim (Benzema)."Mbappe has scored eight goals in 12 appearances for Madrid this season, but his output has been overshadowed by Barcelona's Robert Lewandowski, who has netted 14 times in 12 games. The French forward has also faced criticism for his absence from France's recent Nations League matches due to a thigh injury.Ancelotti's comments come amid concerns about Mbappe's impact on the team's balance. The arrival of the former Paris Saint-Germain star has pushed Jude Bellingham into a more defensive role, and the English midfielder has yet to score this season."We're satisfied with his work... because he works a lot on the pitch," Ancelotti said of Bellingham. "The truth is he hasn't scored the goals he did last year, but the surprise isn't this year, it's last year."Ancelotti acknowledged Madrid's attacking prowess, which includes Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo Goes, and expressed his preference for end-to-end matches. "I want (rock and roll football) because I have players with these characteristics," he said.Meanwhile, Borussia Dortmund coach Nuri Sahin emphasized the need for a strong mentality and collective effort to overcome Madrid's attacking threats. "It's only possible (to succeed) as a collective, not just against these two, but against all of Real's players," he said.Dortmund midfielder Julian Brandt stressed the importance of closing down Madrid players quickly. "It's about working even more defensively... you probably shouldn't give them any breathing room to get close to our goal," he said.

Reigning Spanish and European champions Real Madrid have endured a sluggish start to the season, culminating in their first defeat since January. Carlo Ancelotti's side succumbed to a setback at Lille in the Champions League and trail Barcelona by three points in La Liga.Madrid host Villarreal on Saturday, aiming to level points with their Catalan rivals at the summit of the table for the first time this season. Los Blancos commenced the campaign with a draw at Mallorca and have been playing catch-up ever since.Barcelona's seven-match winning streak was halted at Osasuna last weekend. Madrid failed to capitalize fully, drawing 1-1 with Atletico Madrid. However, they can apply pressure on Barca, who visit Alaves on Sunday, with a victory at the Santiago Bernabeu.To achieve that against a formidable Villarreal side, just a point behind Madrid in third, they will need to elevate their performance significantly. Madrid's loss in France marked their first defeat in 37 matches across all competitions."When we lost the derby (against Atletico) last year, it was a fantastic wake-up call, and hopefully, this defeat can also be a fantastic wake-up call," said Ancelotti. "We did everything wrong -- with the ball, transitions, the intensity, we lost the duels... we have to look at things with a cool head and not throw everything away, but we have to improve."Madrid welcomed Kylian Mbappe against Lille after a thigh injury, and the French striker could start against Villarreal. Despite Villarreal's strength, led by Spain international Ayoze Perez, they have conceded in every match this season.Madrid continue to struggle without midfield maestro Toni Kroos, who retired after helping the team to a La Liga and Champions League double. Los Blancos will also field Ukrainian goalkeeper Andre Lunin between the sticks with Thibaut Courtois out injured."We have to analyze and improve in the next game because there is no time -- there are many games, and we have to win," said Lunin after the Lille defeat.Villarreal may be without Perez, who missed Monday's win over Las Palmas with muscular discomfort, and Gerard Moreno is also sidelined. However, striker Thierno Barry is finding form for Marcelino Garcia Toral's side. The French striker scored and got an assist as Villarreal moved up to third with the 3-1 win.Girona and Atletico Madrid also suffered Champions League defeats on Wednesday and both are in action on Sunday, against tricky Basque sides Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad respectively.

Real Madrid's impressive unbeaten streak came to an abrupt end with a disappointing 1-0 defeat against Lille in the Champions League. Coach Carlo Ancelotti acknowledged the team's subpar performance and welcomed the criticism that followed.Ancelotti admitted, "The criticism we've received for today's game is fair and accurate. We must accept it. We played poorly." Jonathan David's penalty just before halftime sealed Lille's well-deserved victory.This defeat marked Real Madrid's first loss in 37 games across all competitions since January and their first in the Champions League since May 2023. Ancelotti, who led the team to victory in last season's final, acknowledged, "This hasn't happened to us much lately. Our opponents outplayed us and deserved to win."Despite having chances towards the end, Ancelotti recognized that a draw would have been undeserved. "We need to learn from this. There are areas we need to improve."Ancelotti dismissed concerns about the potential consequences of the defeat in the new Champions League format, which features 36 teams in a single pool. "The disappointment stems from the team's performance. You can lose games, but the way we played was not acceptable," he said.Real Madrid had previously defeated VfB Stuttgart 3-1 in their opening game but now joins Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, and Atletico Madrid in losing one of their first two matches. The top eight teams after eight games will advance directly to the last 16, while the remaining spots will be determined through play-offs.Jude Bellingham, a Ballon d'Or candidate, had a disappointing performance for Real Madrid. Ancelotti noted, "He's playing in the same position as last season but without the same success. It wasn't a good night. We need to improve."In contrast, Lille coach Bruno Genesio expressed his delight at overseeing one of the club's most significant European victories. "It's a fantastic performance from everyone and a wonderful reward for the club and our fans," Genesio said. "This shows what we're capable of, but we need to build on it."Genesio added, "It demonstrates that we can challenge the best teams in Europe over 90 minutes," acknowledging that Lille's next matches will be away to Atletico and at home to Juventus.

Real Madrid's resurgence continued on Saturday as they overcame a spirited Espanyol side 4-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu. The victory, inspired by the decisive impact of Vinicius Junior, moved Madrid within a point of La Liga leaders Barcelona.After a sluggish start to the season, Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti praised his team's improved performance, particularly their increased pace and mobility. "We played much faster, touching the ball quicker up front, with some better movement," Ancelotti noted.Vinicius, who started on the bench, proved to be a game-changer. He created the equalizer for Rodrygo Goes before scoring himself to complete Madrid's turnaround. Kylian Mbappe added a late penalty to net in his fourth consecutive game for the club.Espanyol had taken a surprise lead through a Thibaut Courtois own goal, but Madrid responded with a stylish comeback. Dani Carvajal leveled the score before Vinicius took control, showcasing his sublime crossing ability and clinical finishing.Madrid's victory extended their unbeaten run in La Liga to 38 games, a testament to their quality and resilience. Captain Luka Modric attributed the team's success to "character, commitment, and everyone being ready when called on."Despite their recent struggles, Madrid have now won three consecutive league matches and are starting to find their rhythm. Ancelotti remains cautious but optimistic: "Bit by bit, we're returning to our best version."Meanwhile, Barcelona will look to restore their four-point lead when they visit Villarreal on Sunday. The Catalans have a perfect record of five wins from five matches, but they will face a tough test against the unbeaten Yellow Submarine.

Hardik Pandya Set to Return for Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Eyes Ranji Trophy ComebackIndian all-rounder Hardik Pandya is poised to make his return to action in the upcoming Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, India's domestic T20 tournament. The tournament will serve as a warm-up for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, a Test series against Australia. Pandya has expressed his desire to also play red-ball cricket for his state in the Ranji Trophy.Real Madrid's Ancelotti Defends Team's Style Amidst CriticismReal Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has defended his team's style of play despite criticism that they have been riding their luck in recent matches. Ancelotti insists that he is more concerned with results than aesthetics, stating that Real Madrid fans prefer "rock and roll football" and winning over playing well.Ancelotti also rejected claims that his team lacks balance, arguing that collective work is more important than individual positions. He highlighted the versatility of players like Jude Bellingham and Vinicius, who can play both attacking and midfield roles.Espanyol Face Real Madrid in Good FormEspanyol will travel to Madrid in good form for their match against Real Madrid on Saturday. The Catalan club secured a 3-2 home win over Alaves last weekend, with Javi Puado scoring a hat-trick. Espanyol traditionally struggles in Madrid, but their recent form suggests they could pose a challenge to the league leaders.

Real Madrid, the reigning Champions League champions, are poised to make a formidable run in this year's competition with the addition of superstar striker Kylian Mbappe. The Spanish giants have won the tournament a record 15 times, and Mbappe's arrival has only strengthened their chances of adding to their tally.Madrid will kick off their campaign against German side Stuttgart on Tuesday at the Santiago Bernabeu. Coach Carlo Ancelotti, who has won the Champions League five times, is still fine-tuning his team's setup to get the best out of Mbappe, but there is little doubt that the Frenchman will eventually find his scoring touch.Mbappe had a strong performance in Madrid's 2-0 win over Real Sociedad in La Liga on Saturday, threatening the Basque side with his pace and linking up well with Vinicius Junior in attack. He scored from the penalty spot and is eager to make his Champions League debut for Madrid."It will be very important for me," Mbappe said. "I came to Madrid to live these type of nights. I am very focused on what we have to do. The Champions League has changed a lot, it's a new competition, and we have to win to start well."Madrid's new-look structure has given them ties at home against Dortmund, in a rematch of last season's final, and away at Liverpool, whom they defeated in the 2022 final. First up, however, is Stuttgart, continuing a streak of German opponents for Los Blancos.While Mbappe is grabbing the headlines, Ancelotti has a wealth of talent at his disposal. Bellingham was a key player for Madrid in the first half of last season, while Vinicius was vital in the home straight, scoring a brace in the semis against Bayern and again in the final.Mbappe says he is working on his on-pitch relationship with Vinicius, with both netting penalties in the win over La Real. "We try to find each other in training to create the connection and help the team," Mbappe said. "He's a great player and I'm happy to play with him in Real Madrid."With Mbappe and Vinicius firing on all cylinders, Madrid's chances of winning the Champions League yet again will grow even further.

Real Madrid, the reigning LaLiga champions, face a crucial home match against Real Betis on Monday, August 2, with the opportunity to close the gap on league leaders Barcelona. Despite signing Kylian Mbappé, Madrid have struggled for consistency, drawing their last two away games and conceding sloppy goals.Coach Carlo Ancelotti acknowledges the need to find the right balance in his star-studded attack, but he remains optimistic, recalling Madrid's slow start last season before their eventual Champions League triumph.Real Betis, currently in fifth place, pose a significant threat to Madrid's title hopes. They have won their last two league games and boast a dangerous attack led by Borja Iglesias and Nabil Fekir.Madrid's defense has been a concern, with Eder Militão and David Alaba struggling to form a solid partnership. The return of Antonio Rüdiger from injury could provide some stability, but he is unlikely to start against Betis.In midfield, Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos remain influential, but they need more support from the likes of Federico Valverde and Eduardo Camavinga.Up front, Karim Benzema is still Madrid's main goal threat, but he has not been at his best in recent weeks. Mbappé has yet to fully integrate into the team, and Vinícius Júnior has been inconsistent.Ancelotti will be desperate for a victory to boost his team's confidence and close the gap on Barcelona. However, Betis will be no pushovers, and Madrid will need to be at their best to secure all three points.

Kylian Mbappe's highly anticipated La Liga debut for Real Madrid has raised questions about the team's balance, as the Spanish champions drew 1-1 at Mallorca last weekend. Coach Carlo Ancelotti has acknowledged the need for improvement, particularly in terms of defensive stability.Mbappe, who joined Madrid on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain this summer, is expected to make his first home appearance for the club on Sunday against Real Valladolid. The French superstar is hoping to make a greater impact at Madrid than his predecessor, Ronaldo, who won just one La Liga title and failed to lift the Champions League during his five seasons in the Spanish capital.One of the main challenges for Ancelotti is finding the right balance in his attacking lineup. Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo Goes, and Jude Bellingham have all been deployed in the starting XI, but their preference for playing on the left flank has created some congestion. Additionally, Bellingham's role in midfield has been compromised, as he is forced to drop deeper to accommodate the three forwards."We need to defend better, we need more balance," Ancelotti said after the Mallorca draw. "It's a team problem that they didn't understand was a key aspect in this game."While Real Valladolid may not pose a significant threat on paper, Ancelotti will be eager to see his team improve their performance. Mbappe, who scored against Atalanta in the UEFA Super Cup, will be looking to mark his Bernabeu debut with a goal.However, Madrid's attacking prowess could also prove to be a double-edged sword. Teams may be motivated to rise to the challenge of stopping the "fantastic four," as the attacking quartet has been dubbed."We're going to face the best team in the world, with one of the best coaches in history and the best attack in the world today," said Valladolid coach Paulo Pezzolano. "We know what we're going to face, but we're going there convinced that we're going to compete and bring something back home."