CL: It’s not only about stopping Kylian Mbappe

Real Madrid boss Ancelotti insists hosts confident of tackling PSG’s other top players too besides star striker Kylian as they look to overturn first-leg deficit

CL: It’s not only about stopping Kylian Mbappe - Real Madrid boss Ancelotti

Paris Saint-Germain’s star forward Kylian Mbappe. Pic/AFP

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti insists that tonight’s Champions League Last-16 second leg clash against Paris Saint-Germain at the Santiago Bernabeu is not just about Kylian Mbappe.

PSG’s star striker Mbappe was named in the squad on Tuesday for the crucial return leg despite nursing a sore left foot, which he suffered when he was kicked in the foot during training on Monday. PSG said the player would have a final examination before the match. Mbappe scored the only goal in PSG’s 1-0 win over 13-time European champions Real Madrid in the first leg in Paris last month.

Real Madrid boss Ancelotti

Team effort needed

Speaking to Real’s official media on the eve of the Champions league cash, Ancelotti said: “Our game plan isn’t just all about stopping Mbappe. It involves all of PSG’s good players. Our plan is to play as a unit, both with and without the ball, put in a strong all-round performance and produce a smart display. We must not go crazy out there and have to keep our heads. We’ve got to win, it’s not a case of having to thrash them. We may go in front early on or in the last minute.”

Hosts high on motivation

The veteran coach also claimed that his players are highly motivated for the big home fixture. “I know exactly what the Bernabeu is like and we’re even more motivated. Everyone is motivated and it’s obvious from the coach’s point of view that it’s important to be aware of the atmosphere in order to make sure it isn’t too nervous. These players are used to games like this. We’ve come away from the Real Sociedad [Madrid won 4-1] game feeling a lot stronger. It all went well and we’re very excited, eager and motivated. I see our team as being in good shape, motivated and relaxed,” he added.

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