Real Madrid Coach Carlo Ancelotti has praised his side’s rivals Atletico ahead of their Copa del Rey semi-final first leg derby on Wednesday night.
Speaking to the media ahead of the clash, the Italian tactician believes Atleti will provide a stern test for his side and complimented the work done by his opposite number Diego Simeone.
“Atletico are a very strong team,” Ancelotti enthused. “I like their organisation and they play very well on the counter attack. It’s all going well for them.
“Simeone doesn’t believe his team aren’t title contenders, he’s only saying that to take the pressure off.
“He is doing a fantastic job. They didn’t start the season as favourites but now they are right up there in the league, in the semi-finals of the Cup and in the Last 16 of the Champions League.”
