Carlo Ancelotti believes it was ‘strange’ to see Barcelona play so defensively in their 1-0 win against Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey on Thursday evening.
Eder Militao’s first-half own goal sealed the victory for Barcelona in the first leg of their semi final at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Madrid, meanwhile, failed to register a shot on target as Barcelona produced an impressive defensive display against the Spanish champions.
And Ancelotti feels Barcelona’s performance moved away from their usual attacking style.
‘It’s been a bit strange to see them [Barcelona] play like this,’ Ancelotti said of Barcelona after Madrid’s defeat.
‘But they have been very solid, they have a collective commitment, and they have closed all the lines very well.
‘Having to attack them with crosses is not the best thing to do, as I said before. And they have led us to that.’
When asked if he felt Barca deserved to beat Madrid, Ancelotti replied: ‘No, it’s pretty obvious.
‘There have hardly been any occasions. I think it’s been one of our best games defensively all season.’
Meanwhile, Xavi believes Madrid are still favourites to progress to the final despite their defeat to Barca.
‘The 1-0 win gives us a certain advantage,’ Xavi said after the game.
‘But we are going to have to compete very well against a very strong Real Madrid side. I still see Madrid as a favourite.’
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