Carlo Ancelotti admitted Basel were unfortunate to lose 1-0 to Real Madrid in the Champions League.
The Swiss champions ultimately suffered at the hands of a solitary Cristiano Ronaldo strike and, as a result, the Coach felt Los Blancos’ opponents on Wednesday night held a ‘small advantage’ over Liverpool ahead of next week’s second-place decider in Group B at Anfield.
"We didn't play at our usual level because we were slower than normal, but after the goal we controlled the match and defended with sacrifice and concentration,” he conceded to reporters.
"Thanks to those facets [of our performance] we got the win, which was the most important thing.
"Basel played with a different philosophy, with more intensity and attacking intent.
"They looked better than Liverpool, are in good physical condition and have good organisation.
"Anfield is not easy for anyone, but I think that Basel have a small advantage [over Liverpool].
"The Basel played with great intensity and were unlucky in the end. In the second half, we did a little damage, but everyone fought and that's why we won.”
Ancelotti also had words of encouragement for deputy goalkeeper Keylor Navas.
"He played well, quietly and safely, but the good work of the defence prevented him from doing much,” he said of the Costa Rica international.
