After a sluggish start to their domestic and European campaigns, Real Madrid appear to be back on track, winning nine of their last ten matches across all competitions. With momentum on their side, Carlo Ancelotti’s squad is eyeing further dominance, but their next test comes in the form of an impressive Brest side in the Champions League.
Madrid’s Progress: Climbing Back to Their Best
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Ancelotti acknowledged the team’s progress but emphasized there is still more to come.
“I think the team are improving but are yet to show their best, even though we’re getting close.”
The Italian tactician highlighted the growth of key players like Kylian Mbappé, Rodrygo Goes, and Jude Bellingham, noting their individual and collective improvement. After a slow start, Mbappé has found his stride, netting 21 goals in 31 matches, including an impressive eight-goal haul in January alone.
“Kylian is playing very well. I think he just needed a little time to improve athletically and adapt to his new environment… Now we’re taking full advantage of having Mbappé with us and the qualities he can bring to the team.”
Madrid’s return to form has propelled them to the summit of La Liga, and now, they aim to assert their dominance in Europe as well.
Brest’s Unexpected Rise in Europe
On the other side, Brest have been one of the surprise packages of the season. Competing in the Champions League for the first time, the French side has managed four wins in seven games, earning them a place in the knock-out rounds. Their coach, Eric Roy, admits their success has exceeded expectations.
“If someone had told us at the start that we’d be ahead of Real Madrid, we would have found that hard to believe.”
Brest capitalized on Madrid’s early-season struggles, witnessing Los Blancos suffer losses to Lille (1-0) and AC Milan (3-1). However, with Ancelotti’s men rediscovering their rhythm, Roy acknowledges the challenge ahead.
Can Brest Pull Off an Upset?
Despite the gulf in squad strength, financial power, and historical pedigree, Brest remain optimistic. Roy insists his team will not sit back but instead take the game to Madrid.
“We need to step onto the pitch with intent—not just to participate, but to challenge, disrupt, and dictate the game. It’s about making our presence felt, seizing every opportunity, and forcing our opponents to respond to us rather than the other way around.”
While Madrid enters as the overwhelming favorite, Roy believes football always has room for surprises.
“The beauty of football lies in its unpredictability. While numbers, finances, and star power often shape expectations, the game itself is decided on the pitch. Passion, strategy, and moments of brilliance can turn the tide, proving that no favorite is ever guaranteed victory.”
A Crucial Night for Both Sides
With Madrid regaining form and Brest eager to prove their credentials, this showdown promises to be a thrilling encounter. Can Ancelotti’s men continue their resurgence, or will Brest write another chapter in their fairytale European run?
One thing is certain—underestimating Brest could be costly, even for a team as mighty as Real Madrid.