Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has told Brazilian teenager Endrick what he needs to do to get better as a player. The teenager was on target as Los Blancos secured a narrow 1-0 win over Real Sociedad in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final tie on Wednesday.
Endrick’s goal, his sixth for Los Blancos, was set up by a sumptuous assist from Jude Bellingham. The English midfielder’s pinpoint long ball found Endrick, who controlled it beautifully before firing a powerful shot past the Sociedad goalkeeper. The goal proved decisive, giving Real Madrid a crucial advantage heading into the second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu in April.
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti was impressed with Endrick’s performance but still believes that the teenager needs to improve on one aspect of his game.
“He is a striker who has exactly the characteristics he has shown in these cup matches. He has a lot of accuracy, he’s quick, and he’s powerful, and although he still needs to handle the ball better, he’s got that release and finishing.” Ancelotti said.
However, the match was marred by racist abuse directed at Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior and Raul Asencio. According to reports, a fan made monkey gestures towards Vinicius Junior, who has been subjected to racist abuse on several occasions this season. Ancelotti admitted that the abuse had affected both players, with Asencio being substituted at half-time.
The win extends Real Madrid’s unbeaten run in the Copa del Rey and sets them up nicely for the second leg against Sociedad. The La Liga leaders will now turn their attention to their upcoming league match against Real Betis on Saturday.
Vinicius Junior’s experience on Wednesday highlights the ongoing issue of racism in Spanish football. The Brazilian winger has been a frequent target of racist abuse this season, and the incident on Wednesday is just the latest example of the problem.
Real Madrid will be looking to build on their Copa del Rey win when they face Real Betis on Saturday. With the second leg against Sociedad still to come, Ancelotti’s side will be hoping to maintain their momentum and secure a spot in the Copa del Rey final.
