As Real Madrid prepare to host Atlético Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie on Tuesday, Carlo Ancelotti has expressed his excitement for the upcoming battle against his long-time rival, Diego Simeone. The two managers will face off for the 27th time, having met more often than any other pair in their careers. With both managers having nine wins each and eight draws, their rivalry is one of the most competitive in recent football history.
Despite Real Madrid’s remarkable Champions League record, having won all four of their previous meetings with Atlético over the past 11 seasons, including in the 2014 and 2016 finals, recent results have favored Atlético. In the 2023-24 season, Atlético handed Real Madrid their only two defeats, even as the latter enjoyed a near-perfect campaign, securing both the league title and a Champions League triumph. Ancelotti’s team has only won one of the last seven Madrid derbies, with that victory coming in the 2024 Super Cup after a 5-3 extra-time win in Saudi Arabia, over a year ago.
Ancelotti and Simeone share a deep history that dates back to their time in Italy’s Serie A. The Italian coach recalls facing Simeone as a player during a pivotal match between Lazio and Juventus in 2000, which saw Lazio clinch the Serie A title. Since then, the two have crossed paths frequently in managerial roles, with Ancelotti developing a great respect for Simeone’s approach to the game.
Reflecting on their long-standing rivalry, Ancelotti noted the quality Simeone has brought to Atlético Madrid. “Now, as a coach, I respect him a lot. He’s a great manager. He has done very well at Atlético, taking them to the highest level in Europe,” Ancelotti said. He praised Simeone’s ability to read the game, his tactical strategies, and the commitment his teams show defensively. Ancelotti’s admiration for Simeone is clear, and he believes that Atlético’s well-organized and disciplined approach makes them a formidable opponent.
Ahead of the first leg, Ancelotti made it clear that Real Madrid will not fall into the trap of overconfidence. The defending European champions are fully aware of Atlético’s strengths and the challenge that lies ahead. “It’s going to be a close tie that will be decided in the second leg,” Ancelotti said. “The objective tomorrow is to play well and take an advantage.” This reflects the importance of getting off to a strong start in the tie, with the outcome likely to hinge on the return leg.
Ancelotti also acknowledged the unique emotions and pressures that come with a Madrid derby, especially in the high-stakes context of the Champions League. “The match will be even and competitive, as a Madrid derby always is. It’s a special match in terms of emotions and the pressure you feel ahead of a big rivalry game,” he said. These words highlight the significance of the fixture, not only because of the history between the two clubs but also due to the fact that both sides are fighting for a place in the quarterfinals of Europe’s premier club competition.
This encounter promises to be another thrilling chapter in the ongoing rivalry between Ancelotti and Simeone, two of the most respected and successful managers in world football. Both coaches are masters of their craft, and their battle on the touchline will be as captivating as the action on the pitch. As the Champions League knockout stages unfold, this first leg at the Bernabéu will set the stage for what is sure to be a memorable contest between two of the best teams in Europe.
