James Rodriguez admits Real Madrid are in for a tough time against city rivals Atletico this evening when they go head-to-head in the Champions League quarter-final second leg.
The tie is on a knife edge following a goalless draw at the Vicente Calderon in the first leg, when Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak turned out to be the hero when pulling off a number of fine saves.
Atletico have a fine record against Real in recent times, winning four and drawing three meetings and want revenge for last season’s Champions League final which Carlo Ancelotti’s men won 4-1 after extra time.
Rodriguez says it will be another close encounter but is hoping home advantage will help them make it through.
“We have to show intensity, be completely focused, play well, (we
must) all stick together,” he said. “I think that if we do that we’ll come away with an excellent result.
“We’re all dreaming of getting through this round, and if I can score too that’d be great.
“What’s important is winning and getting through this tough match, which is going to be difficult, but we’re here at our home stadium and in front of our fans. I think it could be a great match.
“Atletico are an intense team who are good at the back and are a unit.
There’s always pressure here. You have to know how to handle it. We’re going to give everything to be able to win La Undecima.”
Real are 1.99 to win, with Atletico priced at 4.12, while the draw is 3.28.
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