Real Madrid escaped a dramatic scenario, avoiding a potential upset against Leipzig in the UEFA Champions League round of 16. Overcoming their worst performance of the season with an initial flawed approach, defensive uncertainties, and a loss of identity, Real Madrid secured a place in the quarter-finals with a draw following Vinícius' relief goal and a crucial late save by the crossbar.

Ancelotti made a questionable tactical shift on a day that marked the season, and the players' interpretation couldn't have been worse. Attempting to minimize the opponent's strengths, they minimized their own. The first half saw a Real Madrid nullified by an incomprehensible formation, showing a lack of understanding. The midfield was overcrowded, and the attack was exposed, with Bellingham lost and Vinícius resigned on the wing.

The decision to control the game and slow down Leipzig's rhythm backfired, leading to nervy moments at the Bernabéu, where the fans preferred a more energetic style. The team struggled without the ball, and possession became sterile. The crowd's frustration was evident with boos directed at players, not for lack of effort but due to helplessness without the ball.

Ancelotti, feeling his team's current inconsistency, tried to protect them by leaving Rodrygo on the bench. The first half ended with only one notable attempt, a shoulder shot by Vinícius. Lunin's nine saves in Germany had generated fear, and the Real Madrid faithful feared an unexpected catastrophe. Ancelotti, recognizing the error, reverted to the team's original formation by bringing in Rodrygo.

The second half started with a more determined Real Madrid, but Leipzig still exploited defensive weaknesses. Ancelotti corrected his mistake by introducing Rodrygo, but inconsistency persisted. Vinícius' relief goal came after a period of pressure, and the crossbar saved Real Madrid in the dying moments. The team advanced to the quarter-finals despite a subpar performance, emphasizing the importance of the first-leg victory in Germany.