Real Madrid panicking over prospect of being eliminated from the Champions League while eternal rivals could secure qualification | OneFootball

The Champions League is historically regarded as Real Madrid’s domain. The Merengues boast a staggering 14 titles, surpassing the collective tally of all remaining teams in the tournament.

Real Madrid’s season thus far has shown several encouraging signs, as they are en route to winning La Liga and started 2024 off strong by defeating Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final.

But after the draw against Manchester City in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals, uncertainty looms over the team’s chances of lifting the trophy.

Madrid in panic as Champions League exit looms large

Indeed, as per SPORT (h/t FCB World) Real Madrid are in a frenzy because they believe they are on the cusp of Champions League elimination.

While the Merengues have a second leg to make amends, the club recognizes they missed out on a great opportunity by drawing at home turf, especially considering they could not make the most of their dominance in the first half.

Additionally, the report states that Los Blancos cannot stand the possibility of Barcelona securing qualification to the semi-finals, with the Catalans maintaining a 1-goal lead over PSG and set to play the second leg at home.

Unlike normally, Carlo Ancelotti appeared incredibly nervous in the press conference, which is a sign of the rising tensions in the Spanish Capital.

Manchester City will retrieve key players

Counting Real Madrid out in the Champions League is never a wise idea, but matters will be made worse for the Royal Whites, as the Cityzens will have both Nathan Ake and Kyle Walker on the bench in the second leg.

Furthermore, despite his exclusion in the first leg, Kevin de Bruyne is expected to start at the Etihad Stadium, while Phil Foden will be present too, despite picking up a knock in the first leg.