Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti says his star-studded squad must display courage and show their personality if they want to oust city rivals Atletico from the Champions League
The Madrid derby is the pick of the last-eight ties and Real travel to the Vicente Calderon on Tuesday having failed to win any of the six meetings with Diego Simeone’s side since they won the Champions League final in Lisbon last May.
Atletico thumped Real 4-0 when they last met in February but Ancelotti says Real are in much better shape now.
“We come into the game in good shape. You can’t compare it to what happened in February. Everyone has recovered, the team is fresh and it is clear we can use a high tempo in the game,” said
Ancelotti insists that Real are not “obsessed” with the idea of getting one over on Atletico but instead remain completely focused on becoming the first team to retain the Champions League trophy.
That dream, says Ancelotti, begins with knocking out the reigning La Liga champions.
“It could take us to the semi-final, which is very close to the final. Then once you are in the final there are only two options; to win it or lose it.
“Therefore, our objective is not to beat Atletico Madrid, but to dream about winning the 11th European Cup,” he added.
Real Madrid are 2.65 to defeat Atletico, who are 2.82, in their Champions League quarter final first leg. The draw is 3.15.
Ancelotti says now is the time for Real to show what they are made of.
“We can play with intensity and it will be vital to show courage and personality because they are two very important characteristics. This team has a lot of courage.”
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