‘Modern’ Real Madrid still need Kroos and Modric

Carlo Ancelotti praised Luka Modric and Toni Kroos after the veteran midfielders starred in Wednesday’s 1-0 Champions League Round of 16 win over Liverpool.

Karim Benzema scored in the 78th minute and Vinicius Junior provided the assist as defending champions Madrid defeated last season’s finalists Liverpool 6-2 on aggregate to qualify for the quarter-finals.

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Ancelotti said the performances of midfielders Modric and Kroos – both of whom are currently out of contract this summer – as well as youngster Eduardo Camavinga have been key to Madrid’s control of the game.

“We are a modern team. Football today requires collective commitment, individual quality, energy and experience,” said the Italy coach in his post-match press conference. “Modric and Kroos played well today. The team could have been scared of having the ball to avoid their pressing but they did well and we controlled the game.”

“The atmosphere is created by the players,” added Ancelotti. “The veterans’ humility is key, they have no ego. The youngsters are patient and know they have players with fantastic careers ahead of them. But Modric and Kroos don’t play for their careers, they play.” because they deserve it.”

Ancelotti said Benzema suffered “some discomfort” after the goal but is available for Sunday’s LaLiga Clasico with Barcelona – echoing earlier words from Benzema himself, who called it “a knock” – and described Vinicius as the best players into the world now.

“For me, he is,” said Ancelotti. “He didn’t score today but he was decisive, he provided the assist and every time he signed a player he was dangerous.”

Madrid’s win saw them join Manchester City, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Napoli, AC Milan, Inter Milan and Benfica in the quarter-final draw that takes place on Friday.