The best of Real Madrid yet to arrive at the big stage

Carlo Ancelotti acknowledged that while Real Madrid "are improving," the team is still yet to hit their peak form as they approach a crucial clash against Ligue 1 side Brest on Wednesday. With the final matchday of the revamped Champions League group stage upon them, the reigning European champions are still fighting for a top-eight finish, which would ensure automatic qualification to the last 16. Real Madrid, currently sitting 16th in the standings, have had a turbulent campaign so far, suffering three defeats in their opening seven matches. This has left them with an outside chance of finishing among the top eight, a position that would allow them to skip the knockout play-offs.

Despite their rocky start, Ancelotti remains optimistic, noting that the team is gradually finding its rhythm. However, the upcoming match against Brest is critical if Real Madrid are to secure a top-eight finish and avoid the nerve-wracking play-off round. Even though the club is guaranteed a place in the knockout play-offs, Ancelotti's side will be eager to qualify directly for the last 16, a feat that would ensure a smoother path through the latter stages of Europe’s premier club competition.

After a shaky start to the season, Real Madrid's defence of both their Spanish and Champions League titles now appears to be back on track. Carlo Ancelotti’s side has bounced back strongly, winning nine of their last 10 matches across all competitions. One of the key players in this resurgence has been Kylian Mbappe, who was initially criticised for his performances following his high-profile move from Paris Saint-Germain. The France captain has found his form, scoring consistently and helping propel Madrid to the top of La Liga during the winter months.

Mbappe has netted 21 goals in 31 appearances for Real, with eight of those coming in January alone, showcasing his growing impact at the club. Despite this improved run, Madrid still find themselves one point outside the top eight in the Champions League standings, with seven teams currently ahead of them, including eighth-placed Bayer Leverkusen. Real's next challenge comes against Ligue 1 club Brest, who have impressed on their European debut. Brest sit in a strong position with four wins from their first seven matches in the group stage, making Wednesday’s clash a critical one for both sides as they aim for automatic qualification to the Champions League last 16.

"Brest have done an excellent job in this Champions League. They have a point more than us... It's no coincidence that they took 13 points in the first phase. They are a very good team who know how to take advantage of the qualities of their players," said Ancelotti.