Real Madrid defender Pepe has warned his teammates that being favourites against Juventus on Tuesday does not guarantee victory.
The European giants clash in the Champions League semi-final first leg in Turin and the Portuguese centre-back is under no illusions about the task facing Carlo Ancelotti’s men.
“We know how hard this game is going to be and how difficult it is to play here. Being favourites does not win you matches,” Pepe told a Press conference.
“It’s going to be a really tough match because they are a typical Italian side that wants to defend, but they’ll also be looking to score with the attacking players they have at their disposal.
“However, we’ll be ready for that. We’re confident of getting a good result to take back to Madrid.”
Pepe also spoke about Ancelotti’s effect on the Madrid club while also insisting that getting knocked out of the competition at this stage would not be a failure.
“I’m privileged to be able to learn from the boss every day because he lives for the game. He likes to play good football and be amongst things. As a former player he knows perfectly well what is needed.
“But getting knocked out by Juve wouldn’t be a failure. We have huge respect for them so we must approach things very seriously.
“We’re really excited about the Champions League and defending our title. We’ll be going there full of hope,” said Pepe, who was asked about Sergio Ramos’ recent role as a midfielder.
“Sergio has so much quality. He brings strength from set pieces and gives us stability. At the same time he helps [Toni] Kroos and sacrifices himself for the team,” he explained.
