- Barca won 1-0 at Bernabeu
- Ancelotti lamented Barca's defensive approach
- Return leg set for early April
WHAT HAPPENED? The Blaugrana squeaked out a 1-0 win at Santiago Bernabeu, despite missing Pedri, Robert Lewandowski and Ousmane Dembele. Barca manager Xavi took a conservative approach, and his team only had four shots on the day. Madrid, meanwhile, failed to register a single attempt on target and struggled to create chances despite enjoying a large chunk of possession.
WHAT THEY SAID: Ancelotti took aim at Barcelona's approach in a post-match press conference: "I don't think they deserved to win. It was one of the best games in terms of control. If we play like this in the second leg we'll have more chances, I don't think Barcelona can approach the game like that at home."
The Madrid boss also admitted that it was unusual to see Barca set up so defensively: "It's been a bit surprising to see Barcelona play like that, but they've learned to defend very well. They're very strong in that aspect."
THE BIGGER PICTURE: Barcelona have a one-goal lead to protect going into the second leg in early April. By that time, Xavi will be hopeful of his side being back to full strength.
IN THREE PHOTOS:
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GettyWHAT NEXT FOR REAL MADRID? Los Blancos play Real Betis on Sunday, before squaring off with Espanyol the following weekend. They are looking to close the seven-point lead Barca currently enjoy at La Liga's summit.