Real Madrid Approaching Their Best Form, Carlo Ancelotti Comments Before Champions League Clash

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Real Madrid are nearing their peak performance, according to coach Carlo Ancelotti. Ahead of their Champions League match against Brest in France on Wednesday, Madrid sit 16th in the 36-team table with 12 points. They have won four and lost three out of seven games. Their recent two victories have bolstered their chances for qualification.

Both Real Madrid and Brest are assured of at least a play-off position. However, they still aim for direct entry into the last 16. Currently, Brest holds the 13th spot with 13 points. Earlier this season, Madrid faced a setback in France, losing 1-0 to Lille in October.

Since their defeat by Barcelona in the Supercopa de Espana on January 12, where they lost 5-2, Real Madrid have been on a four-game winning streak across all competitions. Ancelotti expressed confidence in his team's progress, stating that they are close to reaching their best form.

"We were not at our best level yet, but now we're pretty close," Ancelotti mentioned. He highlighted the importance of individual performances from players like Kylian Mbappe, Rodrygo, Jude Bellingham, and Vinicius Junior.

Ancelotti praised French forward Kylian Mbappe for his impressive contributions since joining Madrid. Mbappe has netted 21 goals in 31 matches across all competitions and has been instrumental in the Champions League with three goals and an assist.

"Mbappe took some time to adapt but now he's in great shape," Ancelotti said. "So motivated. He enjoys playing with his team-mates, and we're enjoying it."

Focus on Winning

Madrid aims for a top-eight finish but must surpass teams like Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Brest, Lille, Feyenoord, Monaco, Aston Villa, and Bayer Leverkusen to achieve this goal. Ancelotti emphasized focusing solely on their own matches rather than other teams' results.

"We are not going to speculate or keep an eye on other teams' matches," he stated. "We are going to win and see what happens."

Upcoming Play-offs

The play-offs will involve teams finishing between ninth and 24th positions and are scheduled for mid-February. The draw for these two-legged ties is set for Friday.

Ancelotti reiterated that their primary focus remains on winning games and securing the highest possible finish before considering the outcomes of the draw.