Atletico Madrid captain Gabi believes his side face a tough test in the Champions League last 16 after being drawn against Bayer Leverkusen.
The teams’ only previous meetings came in 2010-11 at the group stage of the Europa League, with the games in Madrid and Leverkusen both ending in 1-1 draws, and Gabi feels it will be as difficult this time around.
“It will be very tough because they are a very good team, but we haven’t underestimated anyone over the past three years and will not do so now,” he told UEFA’s official website.
“On paper there were more powerful teams in the draw, although German teams know how to compete very well and we are going to have a difficult time.
“First we have to win in Leverkusen before we can even think of other teams, yet it’s not going to be easy.”
