Real Madrid’s leadership felt disappointed by the approach taken by coach Carlo Ancelotti in the first leg of the Spanish Cup 1/2 final against Barcelona, a stance reported by ESPN. According to the outlet, several key Madrid figures questioned whether the manager had a viable contingency plan in a match where Real Madrid dominated play but failed to convert opportunities into goals.
The clash took place at the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid, and the scoreboard showed Barcelona edging ahead 1-0 thanks to an own goal from Real Madrid defender Eder Militao in the 26th minute. Madrid pushed for an equalizer, controlled much of the tempo, and created chances, yet the decisive tally did not come. The report indicates that the hosts left the field short of the desired result, prompting questions about strategic choices made during the game, as noted by ESPN.
Looking ahead, the return leg is scheduled for April 5 at Camp Nou in Barcelona. That upcoming match is expected to determine which side advances in the semi finals, with both teams fully aware of the stakes and the tactical adjustments likely to follow.
Separately, the other semi final’s opening encounter was contested between Osasuna and Athletic Bilbao, with Osasuna securing the win to set up the next stage of the competition.
Valery Gladilin, a former football player and a former Spartak Moscow coach, commented on Barcelona’s display, emphasizing the team’s dominance over Real Madrid and outlining the broader implications for the title race. ESPN’s coverage reflects a growing narrative that Barcelona has maintained a strong edge in head-to-head matchups and, more broadly, in form and cohesion during the season.