Atletico Madrid captain Gabi has told of the dangers of underestimating Malmo in their Champions League clash on Tuesday.
Los Rojiblancos beat the Swedes 5-0 at the Vicente Calderon two weeks ago but Gabi feels they will be an entirely different proposition at their home stadium.
“I’m expecting the Malmo we saw in the first half when we struggled to create chances against them and they were very tight at the back,” he told a Press conference.
“In the second half they weakened physically and we were able to take advantage, but we know that at home they are very strong.
“They are a powerful team and we won’t be underestimating them. At first everyone said that this group was going to be dominated by two teams[Juventus and Atletico]and if we beat Malmo it will be a big step towards qualifying for the next stage.
“But every team works with the resources it has and I’m sure we are going to see a much more aggressive opponent than we saw in the second half at the Calderon.”
The 31-year-old also commentedonboss Diego Simeone’s recent remarks that Gabi was the heart of Atletico.
“If I am the heart of Atleti,as the boss says,then that is what he must think. I’m flattered that he has spoken well of me and I’ll continue to work with tenacity, although every player gives everything he can.
“I never think of myself before helping the team,” he added
