Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti explains tactical masterstroke against Atletico Madrid – 'We preferred it'

Real Madrid will be disappointed to have only one comes from Sunday's Madrid derby with a pointbut given the situations they had to face coming into the party, they would probably be satisfied with everything.

Antonio Rudiger missed the game due to injury, and he was joined by Vinicius Junior, who pulled off the starting line after taking a hit in the warm-up. Joselu Mato was supposed to replace him, before it was decided that Brahim Diaz would play instead.

It turned out to be a masterstroke by Carlo Ancelotti as Brahim scored Real Madrid's goal, and the 24-year-old was a constant threat during his time on the pitch. The Italian explained the reason for choosing Brahim over Joselu, as per Brand.

“We had to change the whole defensive system with Joselu, so we preferred to go for Brahim.”

Real Madrid felt hard for not having been awarded at least one penalty against Atleti, although Ancelotti was tight-lipped on the matter when he spoke to the press. However, he spoke about the situation of Rudiger, as well as Eduardo Camavinga, who was struggling at the end of the match with a knock.

“I hope (Rudiger) will be back next game.

“Camavinga's wound?” Nothing, just a shot.”

Real Madrid they are now two points clear at the top of the La Liga table, and host nearest challengers Girona in a crucial clash next weekend at the Santiago Bernabeu. Ancelotti will hope to have as many players as possible for that one.