Carlo Ancelotti spoke in the mixed zone at the Etihad Stadium to analyse Real Madrid’s qualification for the Champions League semi-finals after defeating Manchester City on penalties at the Etihad.

The coach explained: “There was only one way to get out of here alive. We did well to score early on and then we showed the commitment to defend the lead. We defended well, we had to dig in and fight hard. We could have played better but the team were defensively superb.

“We showed the attitude and commitment demanded by this jersey. This is a very special competition for us and we always deliver something that people are not expecting us to produce. Everyone was writing us off but we’re still here.”

On how his team was feeling after the game, Ancelotti said: “We’re delighted, but we’re very tired. Now we have to celebrate because it’s a very important qualification. From tomorrow we have to prepare well for Sunday’s game. The Clasico is crucial for the league.”