Thibaut Courtois’ performance against Chelsea in the Champions League, according to Carlo Ancelotti, was crucial for Real Madrid.
The former Blues custodian played admirably in Tuesday’s second leg, which Madrid won 2-0 and 4-0 overall thanks to two goals from Rodrygo in the second half.
Prior to the Brazilian scoring, Courtois was crucial in keeping Chelsea from having a chance to get back into the game with an outstanding save on Marc Cucurella.
Speaking afterwards, Ancelotti lauded his goalkeeper’s contribution while paying tribute to his side for how they soaked up the pressure at Stamford Bridge.
“They were ahead on the scoreboard [mentally],” he told Movistar. “The save was very important. In the second half, we managed better, we had more space.
“We knew that we had to suffer in this type of game. [Chelsea] tried everything, they created problems for us. It has been a complete game, and a deserving tie.”
16 – @realmadriden will play the #UCL semi-finals for the 16th season, at least four more than any other team in the competition's history (Bayern Munich and FC Barcelona, 12 each). Usual. pic.twitter.com/3Ta0pC1AfW
— OptaJose (@OptaJose) April 18, 2023
Rodrygo echoed his coach’s comments, lauding Courtois while touching on the pressures of ensuring Madrid live up to expectations with a semi-final appearance.
“We suffered today at the beginning, but there [Courtois] was again to save us,” he added. “We have the obligation to reach the semi-finals every year.
“We’ve achieved it every year since I’ve been here. I don’t know what happens to me with this competition, but it is very special, and I am very happy.”
Madrid will face either Manchester City or Bayern Munich in the last four, with the Premier League side favourites to join them after a hefty 3-0 first-leg win.