Carlo Ancelotti reveals the one thing Endrick needs to improve as Real Madrid wonderkid impresses in Copa del Rey clash

Carlo Ancelotti was impressed with Endrick's performance on Wednesday night as Real Madrid beat Real Sociedad 1-0, but still believes that the 18-year-old needs to improve on one more thing to refine his all-round game. Endrick enjoyed a rare start under Ancelotti and proved to be a difference maker on the night.

With fixtures coming in thick and fast, Ancelotti decided to field a heavily-rotated lineup for the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final against Real Sociedad. As a result, Endrick and Arda Guler - reported to be looking for a summer exit - got rare starts.

The Brazilian striker delivered a stunning first-half goal, brilliantly set up by Jude Bellingham with a sumptuous assist. That moment proved decisive, as the goal ultimately became the match-winner, giving his side a narrow advantage heading into the second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu in April.

Earlier this month, Endrick explained why playing for Real Madrid was both an honour as well as a challenge. But on Wednesday, he certainly lived up to the task, scoring his sixth goal for Los Blancos. Despite his match-winning performance, head coach Ancelotti offered a word of advice to the highly talented youngster after the game.

“He is a striker who has exactly the characteristics he has shown in these cup matches," Ancelotti told reporters (h/t Managing Madrid).

"He has a lot of accuracy, he’s quick, powerful and although he still needs to handle the ball better, he’s got that release, that finishing. He could have even scored a second goal. His shooting is spectacular. He’s very young, but he’s a very quick learner.”

The former Palmeiras prodigy will be keen to build on his Copa del Rey heroics when Real Madrid take on Real Betis at the Benito Villamarin on Saturday, March 1.