Real Madrid fans and players celebrated their hard-fought win against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday to earn a quarter-final berth in the Champions League, but manager Carlo Ancelotti was more relieved than rapturous at what he said was a subpar performance.

If it was difficult tonight, imagine what it will be like next Wednesday,’ said Carlo Ancelotti after Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League

The Champions League holders won 4-2 on penalties after the two rivals played out an enthralling 2-2 draw over two legs

Madrid has been a thorn for Atletico in the Champions League over the years, beating the city rival in two finals and eliminating it from the competition the other two times they faced off in the knockout rounds.

Real Madrid produced a gritty display to reach the Champions League quarter-finals with a 4-2 win on penalties against rivals Atletico Madrid, following a 1-0 defeat after extra time on Wednesday.Real Madrid knocked Atletico out in the 2017 semi-finals in the final European game at the Vicente Calderon,

Carlo Ancelotti said Real Madrid will face immense pressure in their Champions League last 16 second leg derby at Atletico Madrid on Wednesday, but backed his players to rise to the occasion. Last season Atletico Madrid fought back in the last 16 to beat Inter Milan on penalties after losing the first leg in Italy.