Ancelotti Looks Forward To Champions League Clash With Old Rival Simeone

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Carlo Ancelotti is eagerly anticipating another encounter with his long-time adversary, Diego Simeone, as Real Madrid prepares to face Atletico Madrid in the Champions League. This upcoming match marks their 27th meeting, with both coaches having nine wins each and eight draws. The teams have already clashed three times this season, resulting in two draws in LaLiga and a 4-2 victory for Simeone's side in the Copa del Rey.

The rivalry between Madrid and Atleti will see its 10th European Cup/UEFA Champions League meeting, equalling Chelsea versus Liverpool for the most encounters between teams from the same country. Despite winning all four previous meetings in this competition over the past 11 seasons, including finals in 2014 and 2016, Ancelotti's team has only one win in their last seven derbies against Atleti across all competitions.

Ancelotti reminisces about his first memory of Simeone as a player for Lazio when he scored against Juventus during a league title match. "My first memory of him is as a footballer with Lazio, when he scored against Juventus I was a coach in a game that was for the league title," said Ancelotti. "Lazio won and they took the championship, I think it was 2000."

Now facing each other as managers, Ancelotti holds great respect for Simeone's achievements at Atletico. "He's a great manager. He has done very well at Atletico, taken them to the highest level in Europe," Ancelotti stated. He admires Simeone's game-reading abilities, strategic approach, and defensive commitment.

Ancelotti emphasises that Real Madrid will not be complacent despite past successes as they aim for a record-extending 16th European crown. "It's going to be a close tie that will be decided in the second leg," he noted. The focus is on playing well and gaining an advantage in this competitive derby.

The intensity of a Madrid derby brings unique emotions and pressure due to the fierce rivalry between these clubs. "The match will be even and competitive, as a Madrid derby always is," Ancelotti remarked. The objective is to perform well tomorrow and secure an edge heading into the second leg.

This highly anticipated clash promises excitement as both teams vie for supremacy on Europe's grandest stage once again. With their storied history and intense rivalry, fans can expect another thrilling chapter in this ongoing saga between two football giants.