In a thrilling Copa del Rey quarterfinal, Real Madrid edged past Leganés with a 3-2 victory, but the match was marked by a notable on-field exchange between veteran midfielder Luka Modric and forward Vinicius Junior.
Real Madrid Drama: Modric Confronts Vinícius, Ancelotti Calls for Respect
Modric was seen admonishing Vinícius for his lack of defensive effort following a yellow card incident.
When questioned about this interaction, head coach Carlo Ancelotti emphasized the respect commanded by Modric within the team.
“If Modric has said it, you always have to respect what Modrić says,” Ancelotti remarked.
Modric himself downplayed the incident, stating,
“These are things which happen in football… You see everything you shouldn’t see,” suggesting that such exchanges are a normal part of the game.
Ancelotti further commented on Vinicius’s performance, noting,
“On a footballing level, he’s the usual Vinícius—very fresh and forceful in his face. He had many opportunities and then the card… It’s all nothing new,” he added with a laugh.
Reflecting on the team’s overall performance, Ancelotti acknowledged the challenges faced during the match.
“We didn’t start well, but we managed to get ahead and take advantage. The team played very well in attack, with a lot of effectiveness. Although it is true that we suffered in defense,” he admitted.
The coach also highlighted the contributions of young players like Gonzalo García, whose injury-time header secured the win.
“Gonzalo is on a very good run with the Castilla and he has also contributed tonight. We have to be satisfied with what the young people have done. We have to count on them,” Ancelotti stated.
As Real Madrid advances to the semifinals, Ancelotti emphasized the importance of resilience and the integration of youth talent, especially with crucial matches against Atletico Madrid and Manchester City on the horizon.
“It’s a complicated and difficult time. We have to move forward with games like today’s, in which we suffered. We are in the semifinals and the youngsters have contributed,” he concluded
