Ancelotti takes the blame for Real Madrid’s derby defeat: “It’s my responsibility”

Real Madrid Boss Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that he bears full responsibility for his team's loss to Atletico Madrid in the Spanish capital derby. Real Madrid lost to Atletico Madrid 3-1 on Sunday at the Civitas Metropolitano Stadium in the sixth round of the Spanish League. The manager began his post-match press conference with an overview of the game that unfolded at Civitas Metropolitano from a Real Madrid perspective. “We didn’t start well. We have not defended well, we have been fragile in our area and we have not been forceful. When they have advanced 2-0 they have played the game they wanted to play, defending very well and looking for quick transitions. They have done it better than us.” “The three goals have been a photocopy. A break to open to the centers, which were not well placed in the area. We haven’t been compact in all three goals,” he added on conceding three headers. “When the team doesn’t do what it has to do, it’s my responsibility. I shoulder that, it’s my fault.” Ancelotti accepted full fault for Real Madrid’s performance and result with the Italian typically looking to take focus away from his team. The veteran coach dismissed suggestions that tactics were a concern on the night as he claimed defensive shortcomings and a lack of intensity cost the visitors. “We didn’t start well or defend well. When they went 2-0 up, they played the game they wanted to. Atleti did better than us in this sense”. Atletico Madrid's balance rose to 10 points in fifth place in the La Liga table, while Real Madrid's froze at 15 points in third place in the La Liga table.  The result left Barcelona and Girona at the top of the standings with 16 points each from 6 matches on goal difference from runner-up Girona.