Wednesday, 22nd October, 2014
Carlo Ancelotti admits that despite his Real Madrid side being 3-0 up against Liverpool at half-time this evening, he warned them that with the Anfield faithful in full voice, anything could still happen.
Liverpool came racing out of the blocks at Anfield, trying to press and push Real Madrid back, but a moment of genius from Cristiano Ronaldo, who nudged ahead of Martin Skrtel to half-volley a goal in the 23rd minute, knocked the Reds back.
Real Madrid wasted no time in doubling their advantage, with Karim Benzema heading in past Simon Mignolet in the 30th minute.
Then Benzema guided the ball home in a scramble in the box in the 41st minute, putting the game beyond doubt.
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Liverpool tightened up in the second half, bringing Mario Balotelli off for Adam Lallana, and the scoreline remained 3-0, with Los Blancos claiming the three Champions League points.
But Ancelotti admits he was still somewhat wary at half-time, even though Real Madrid's advantage was strong.
Ancelotti told Sky Sports: "I think so [that it was over at half-time].
"No, I forgot this [to remind my team about Istanbul in 2005].
"[But] I told the players that in football everything can happen.
"I know really well that these supporters stay close to the team.
"I told my players to stay focused in the second half."
Ancelotti also admitted that he felt Real Madrid's performance was their best of the season so far.
"I think so [that it was the best] also because of the opponents. I think they played very good.
"In the first half we had a fantastic match and in the second half we had control of the game and the result."
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