Ancelotti: It may seem that Shakhtar match was easy, but it was not

Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti’s thoughts on the game against Shakhtar.

– It would have been naturally, if the team had claimed a major win. What do you think about the match?
– I am satisfied. I think we played very well, too match in attack. We had a lot of chances, but didn’t manage to convert them all. The main thing is that we created these chances.

– Did you achieve your goal by winning?
– We spent first 20 minutes very well winning 2-0.

– Real Madrid were very confident, the game should have ended with hammering, but it didn’t happen...
– Yes, we reduced intensity throughout the match, we felt quite comfortable after the 20th minute. The goal that we have conceded before the break made us realize that the match was not over. Such things happen, although we played well. It may seem that the match was easy, but it was not. If you do not convert all the chances, the opponent may use this opportunity. I think that Shakhtar had one chance in the first half, but our defence took everything under control in the second one.

– Does the fact that Real Madrid relax at the most important moment and do not put a squeeze on the opponent bother you?
– The team do not relax when it is inappropriate, but when the game is under your control and the score is 2-0 in your favour, players may let the situation go. We are all humans and all individuals may relax in such moments. I am satisfied, because my team carried out combinations and led the game perfectly. All three forwards performed wonderful things being at front at the same time. Federico Valverde entered the game perfectly and Kroos and the centre field footballers carried out an excellent work with the ball, so the middle line continued to attack. It doesn’t bother me. Of course, we have to increase the intensity, maintain the pace – it is important, but not always possible.

– 3 wins and 9 points in 3 opening matches of the Champions League. How would you assess the result considering the upcoming World Cup?
– It is important to get as many points in the Champions League as possible and advance to the tournament play-off as soon as possible, as the matches take a lot of energy.

– Rodrygo acted unusually deeply. How do you see the combination game of the Brazilian with Benzema and Vinicius? Is it possible to see Rodrygo exactly in this position more often in the future?
– Indeed, we change his position a little to add pressure on two central defenders of the opponent, because Shakhtar’s defenders were good with the ball, but we tried to create problems for them through the continuous pressure. Rodrygo interacted with Benzema quite well and I think that we can play using 4–4–2 formation, because Rodrygo adds a great quality in play with the ball. He can play in any position, although this substitution was not made with emphasis on defence. We just needed to put pressure on the opponent’s defenders.

– Does Rodrygo have any problems with his health?
– Minor calf cramp, nothing serious, there is no major injury.

– What can you say about Benzema? Did he succeed, did he create chances?
– He played a crucial role in the attack finishing stage in his position with his quality level. He did not convert a penalty in the previous match, but we don’t think about that. He recovers his form, now he played the full time and we are satisfied with him.

– Rodrygo scored the goal and provided assist. Is it his best time in Madrid?
– Since he came, he has been experiencing his best times. He has to progress and he loves it, he gains more confidence, takes part in finishing of the attacks, receives more playing time. But Rodrygo deserved it.