Carlo Ancelotti believes Real Madrid are “clear favourites” for the LaLiga title after their convincing 2-0 El Derbi win over Atletico Madrid on Sunday.
LaLiga leaders Madrid moved 13 points clear of fourth-placed Atleti as goals from Karim Benzema and Marco Asensio stretched their unbeaten league run over their city rivals to 11 games.
It was Madrid’s seventh consecutive top-flight win and lifted them seven points clear of Sevilla, although Unai Emery’s team do have a game in hand.
Asked about his impact on his team’s fine run, Ancelotti told a media conference: “I don’t think it’s the Ancelotti effect; I have a team that leaves me calm because of what they do on the field.
“They handle the game very well and they have defensive commitment. It’s a team, not just high-quality players, and that’s the difference.
“We are clear favourites [for the title] because we have done very well, better than others, but we are focused on the next matches because a mental downturn can cost us dearly. This is the only way to get closer to winning.
“Of the team I really like the defensive aspect; it is the one that we have improved the most since the beginning of the season.
“We are more solid. Although the pressure is not too high, with a lower block we use the forwards for the counter-attacks.”
Ancelotti was fulsome in his praise of Luka Modric after another supreme display from the veteran midfielder.
The Croatia international made a joint-team high three interceptions and completed 90.1 per cent of his passes, with his all-round display leaving his boss purring.
“I have congratulated him on the game because he was incredible,” Ancelotti added.
Ofori Amponsah
