Carlo Ancelotti defended Real Madrid's performance in their 2-1 LaLiga win over Rayo Vallecano on Sunday, pointing to the struggles of a number of teams balancing Champions League football with domestic duties.

The Madrid derby takes center stage in the round of 16 of the Champions League, with Atletico Madrid in a commanding position to try to finally get the best of rival Real Madrid in the European compet

The round of 16 is officially underway in the UEFA Champions League with several teams halfway to a spot in the quarterfinals after first-leg action. Arsenal, Aston Villa and Real Madrid all carry advantages heading into next week's second leg,

Alonso has seemed destined for the top job at Madrid since starting his coaching career in their youth ranks. Could it happen?

Real Madrid are not in an ideal position in LaLiga and will have to fight to reclaim top spot, manager Carlo Ancelotti said ahead of Sunday's home game with neighbours Rayo Vallecano. Real have won only once in their last five LaLiga matches and are third in the standings with 54 points,

Carlo Ancelotti has defended Kylian Mbappé's form after the star forward disappointed in Real Madrid's 2-1 Champions League win over Atlético Madrid in midweek, saying the France captain's form will waver over the course of a season.