Many people misunderstood the situation, believing that both of Real Madrid's full-backs were terrible defenders.
In reality, no player capable of playing for Real Madrid was truly lacking in ability.
Marcelo and Carvajal were certainly stronger going forward than defending, but that did not mean their defense was poor. More often, it was because of the team's tactical arrangements. They were encouraged to push forward aggressively, which meant they often could not return to position in time to participate in defense.
When they could settle the situation and defend from their positions, Real Madrid's defense was not bad at all.
Starting in the seventy-fifth minute, Atletico Madrid decisively pushed forward, organizing a frenzied pressing game in the attacking half. Whenever they won the ball, they immediately threatened Real Madrid's goal.
This had definitely been deliberately arranged by Simeone before the match. He was unwilling to settle for a goalless draw away from home, because he knew very well that this scoreline was not enough to guarantee them the title. He wanted to score.
Real Madrid had no choice but to avoid their opponents' attacking edge and retreat. Even Marcelo and Carvajal had returned to their positions. Their defensive organization was quite tight, leaving Atletico Madrid with few opportunities.
Real Madrid's defensive system had been forged over five years, from Benitez to Ancelotti, under two Head Coaches. Once they focused on defending, it would not be easy for Atletico Madrid to break through Real Madrid's goal.
Even so, Real Madrid remained relatively passive on the field.
This made every Real Madrid player on the pitch worried, while the coaching staff by the sidelines and the fans in the stands were all on tenterhooks.
Unable to break through Atletico Madrid's defense, Real Madrid would be doomed if they lost their grip at