Carlo Ancelotti: "I have great respect for Simeone"

The head coach of "Real" Carlo Ancelotti — about the first match with "Atletico" in the round of 16 of the Champions League.

Simeone and Ancelotti (photo: uefa.com)

— Our last memory of the Champions League at "Bernabeu" was special, and we want to repeat it. Compared to the match against "Man City", there will be many differences: "Atletico" is a more vertical team, while "City" focused more on ball possession. However, our style will not change because of this.

We know that it will be an even match, and we feel that everything will be decided in the second leg. We cannot think about securing a significant advantage tomorrow. It is impossible because our opponent is playing very well, and this confrontation will be close until the end.

Our matches have always been intense. "Atletico" has been very successful in all tournaments this season. I first met Simeone when he was still playing. He scored an important goal against me in the match between "Juventus" and "Lazio" and scored in a crucial match that determined the fate of the "scudetto" in 2000. As a coach, I have great respect for him. I like how he reads the game and how decisively his team plays in defense, - quotes Ancelotti UEFA's press service.