Madrid’s Struggle to Jell; Champions League Performances Worrying

However, winning games wouldn't suffice, as Real Madrid needed a statement win when they played against AC Milan, following a 4-0 loss at El Clásico, but instead faced a 3-1 defeat at their home field. This game was a stunning reflection of Real Madrid's 5-2 comeback win against Borussia Dortmund. Only this time, there was no inspiring second-half fightback. Madrid launched several attempts to change the course of the match, including five substitutions, but to no avail.

Disappointingly, many chances got created with 23 shots, 10 of them on target, but just one goal was scored. Despite a few promising moments, this clearly wasn't Madrid's night.

Madrid's elite players were unable to make a difference, with players like Luka Modric and Jude Bellingham sending shots off-target, and Kylian Mbappé, the new project head, missing a number of opportunities.

The Champions League campaign has thus far been deeply unconvincing for Madrid. Late goal wins against VfB Stuttgart, a loss to Lille, and the Dortmund comeback all paint a picture of a team in hefty struggle. The pressure on coach Carlo Ancelotti continues to grow due to Madrid's underwhelming season performances.