Carlos Ancelotti is sure Real Madrid have the fire power to cope without their star players, Karim Benzema, Gareth Bale and Luka Modric and is full of confidence his side will beat city rival Atletico Madrid to progress to the semi-final.
Real Madrid manager says his side have options to replace the injured players in tomorrow’s mouth watering Madrid derby.
Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid first leg last week ended in a goalless draw and both teams will be eager to win as the tie remains equally balanced. Atletico Madrid will be out there to take revenge from Real Madrid after Simeone’s team lost the UEFA Champions League final last year.
Ancelotti said: “We are missing some important players but it’s impossible for us to be more motivated than we are. We have to live with injuries. We did it in the past and it will not hurt our confidence,”
“Isco has played in Modric’s position before and he did very well there. We have plenty of options even without Bale and Benzema. There’s James, Jese and Chicharito. James has been doing great, both on the right and in midfield. Chicharito is in fine shape as well, both physically and mentally.
“I will choose the best possible line-up. I will select players that will help the team to play like we did in the first leg. I have the best squad in the world in my opinion.”
“Atletico have a very strong defence but we are confident that we can beat them. We have to repeat our performance at their stadium. We are ready for any outcome. However, It’s very complicated to practice a penalty shootout.
“I think it will be an even match, we will focus on playing well for the entire 90 minutes. We have to stick to our strategy and apply it on the field. It will be an important game for all: the club, the players and the fans – we have a chance to reach the semi-finals.”
“Griezmann is a very dangerous player who has been in fine form. We will have to be very careful with him and cannot lose focus.”