Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has heaped praise on Jude Bellingham after the English midfielder played a pivotal role in their thrilling 3-2 victory over Alavés on Tuesday night, Soccernet.football reports.
Bellingham, who provided an assist for Kylian Mbappé’s goal, was a standout performer as Madrid extended their impressive run of form in La Liga.
The match at the Santiago Bernabéu saw Real Madrid dominate for much of the night, with goals from Lucas Vázquez, Mbappé, and Rodrygo giving them a 3-0 lead.
However, two late goals from Alavés, courtesy of Carlos Benavidez and Kike Garcia in the 88th and 89th minutes, threatened to derail Madrid’s victory. Despite the nervy finish, the home side held on to secure all three points, keeping them just behind leaders Barcelona in the La Liga standings.
Jude Bellingham, who has been influential since joining the club, provided a key assist in the 40th minute. After a slick one-two with Mbappé, the Frenchman calmly slotted the ball past the goalkeeper to make it 2-0.
Speaking after the game, Ancelotti praised Bellingham’s performance but emphasised there is room for improvement.
“He’s growing, he gave the assist to Mbappé, he played a very complete game,” Ancelotti told reporters as per MadridUniversal.
“He needs to get used to it a bit more in the box, like last year. It’s more complicated against a team with a low block like Alavés. I’m asking Bellingham to do that kind of work, not to score goals. We can score at any time.”
Real Madrid’s latest victory places them second in La Liga with 17 points, just one behind Barcelona, who have a game in hand.
Ancelotti will be hoping for continued growth from Bellingham as Madrid push to reclaim the top spot.