Brest vs Real Madrid UCL LIVE: BRE v RMA, UEFA Champions League updates, streaming info

Brest vs Real Madrid UCL LIVE: BRE v RMA, UEFA Champions League updates, streaming info

Real Madrid had to play just 13 games to win the Champions League last season, and now faces playing 17 to retain the title.

Madrid is 16th in the standings before going to play unheralded Brest after losing three of its seven games, including on its previous trip to France against Lille.

The record 15-time European champion can still rise to a top-8 finish — earning direct entry to the round of 16 in March — by beating 13th-place Brest, though needs other results to go its way.

Ancelotti’s side lost 1-0 at Lille in its last Champions League trip to France in October. It is now on a four-game winning streak in all competitions following a 5-2 loss to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup on January 12.

“We were not at our best level yet, but now we’re pretty close. Everyone knows exactly what needs to be done and we’ve improved as a group,” the Italian told reporters.

“The individual contributions have also been significant. Especially (Kylian) Mbappe, of course, but we can’t forget Rodrygo, (Jude) Bellingham and Vinicius Jr. All of this gives me more peace of mind.”

Ancelotti heaped praise on France forward Mbappe, who has scored 21 goals in 31 games across all competitions since moving to Madrid, including three goals and an assist in the Champions League.

“Mbappe took some time to adapt but now he’s in great shape. So motivated. He enjoys playing with his teammates, and we’re enjoying it,” the 65-year-old added.

Teams finishing ninth to 24th go into the playoffs on February 11-12 and 18-19. The draw for the two-legged games is on Friday.

(with inputs from AP and Reuters)