Group C Kick-off: 19-45 (BST)
The coaches of both Real Madrid against Milan appeared to be looking forward to the fixture as much as the fans as they spoke enthusiastically about the Group C contest.
Madrid top the section with a perfect record from two matches while the Rossoneri are level on three points with FC Zurich after their surprise home defeat to the Swiss club on Matchday 2.
Madrid coach Manuel Pellegrini was relishing he prospect of facing Milan.
“It’s always difficult no matter who you face, but we have to admit that an encounter between Real Madrid and Milan is something special because of the magnitude of both clubs and the quality within either squad,” he said. “Their players have a lot of experience and played a good second half against Roma. Milan are not a team in decline; they have a huge history behind them and players of real quality.
“Milan are and always will be a team that can cause a lot of damage to their rivals. Given space they can be very dangerous and we have to be careful because we’re facing a team that can make things very complicated for us.
“Week after week we’re improving the way we play. We have some lapses during games but that’s normal for a team that is still being formed. ”
Real will be without record signing Cristiano Ronaldo, but fellow big-money signing, Kaka is available, to face his former club.
Milan coach Leonardo, who has come under pressure following his side’s diappointing start to the season, echoed his Pellegrini’s thoughts about the pedigree of both clubs.
“Real Madrid and Milan are two of the most important clubs in Europe and there are certainly great expectations,” he said. “Milan and Real have a lot of mutual respect. I believe we can achieve a good result here because we always find something extra in these big games. We know our opponents well and Real know us as well. This is Real-Milan; as good as it gets.
“We’re on a high after a win against Roma which gave us some important answers. Real have great players and are in good form, and I’m sure the game is also special for them.
“Ronaldinho and Kaka are both attacking players but are very different from each other. Ricky’s pace makes him special but Ronaldinho is as special with his skills with the ball. They are complete players but with different styles.
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