Daniel Riolo criticises Real Madrid for playing like a Ligue 2 side | OneFootball

Daniel Riolo has criticised Real Madrid for playing like a Ligue 2 side during their victory over Manchester City yesterday evening in the Champions League quarter-final.

Speaking on After Foot, the journalist was far from complimentary of Carlo Ancelotti’s Madrid side as they set about defending their early lead with a deep shape against the competition’s current reigning champions.

City were allowed 68% possession during the tie as they pegged Madrid back with a Kevin De Bruyne (31) strike in the 76th minute, forcing the contest to go to penalties. It was there that Madrid took advantage and secured passage to this year’s semi-finals.

Real Madrid reach the semi-finals for the 33rd time

Despite their victory, Riolo took exception to the approach demonstrated by Madrid believing that it was not befitting their status or their resources within the game. Riolo compared the side unfavourably to a lower league underdog, stating “They were a team that came to play the second half like they were a Ligue 2 side up against a Ligue 1 team in the Coupe de France.”

And while Riolo might not approve of their methods, they have been unquestionably successful, with the club having now reached this stage of the competition 12 times in the last 14 years.

GFFN | Nick Hartland