Carlo Ancelotti is optimistic that Real Madrid’s 3-2 victory over Atalanta could propel his side into the top eight of the Champions League and secure a direct route to the last 16. The reigning European champions triumphed in a thrilling clash against the Serie A leaders in Bergamo, with goals from Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Jude Bellingham reigniting their title defence.
The win leaves Madrid three points shy of the top eight positions, with crucial matches against Salzburg and Brest still to come. Reflecting on the hard-fought result, Ancelotti acknowledged the challenges ahead but remained focused.
Atalanta, who slipped to ninth place with the defeat, gave a spirited performance but ultimately fell short. Goals from Ademola Lookman and Charles De Ketelaere kept them in contention, but a dramatic missed chance by Italy’s Mateo Retegui in added time proved costly. The forward failed to convert Lookman’s low cross from close range, leaving coach Gian Piero Gasperini reflecting on the lessons to be learned.
“It all happened so quickly,” said Gasperini. “A draw might have been a fairer result given the balance of play, but losing like this could spur us to improve. The defeat wasn’t about bad luck—we simply need to adjust some things to reach their level.”
Atalanta’s remaining group-stage fixtures against Sturm Graz and Barcelona will now be pivotal in their quest to progress.
