Wed Jan 29 20:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Real Madrid Eye Champions League Last 16 Qualification Despite Faltering Start
**Madrid, Spain** – Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti believes his team is improving but is yet to reach its full potential as they prepare for a crucial Champions League clash against Brest on Wednesday. While already assured of a place in the knockout play-off round, Real Madrid aims for automatic qualification to the last 16.
A shaky start to the season, marked by three defeats in their first seven matches, saw Real Madrid languishing in 16th place. However, a recent resurgence, with nine wins in their last 10 games, has propelled them closer to the top eight and automatic qualification.
Ancelotti highlighted the individual and collective improvement of his players, specifically mentioning Kylian Mbappé, Rodrygo Goes, and Jude Bellingham. He praised Mbappé’s adaptation, stating the striker “just needed a little time to improve athletically and adapt to his new environment.” Mbappé’s impressive goal-scoring form (21 goals in 31 matches) has been crucial to Real Madrid’s recent surge.
Despite their improved form, Real Madrid face a challenging opponent in Brest, who have exceeded expectations in their Champions League debut, accumulating four wins and currently holding a point advantage over the Spanish giants.
Brest coach Eric Roy acknowledged the underdog status but expressed confidence, noting Real Madrid’s early season struggles. He highlighted Brest’s strong start and Real Madrid’s relative underperformance as contributing factors to their current standings. Roy promised a proactive approach, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of football and the possibility of an upset.
First Piper 