AC Milan take on Real Madrid at the Bernabeu in two weeks time, and there is already a feeling of nervousness emerging.
Facing Madrid is never an easy task, but it increases in difficulty at the Bernabeu, and whilst Milan do not need to win the game, it would significantly help their chances of qualification if they did. After a win against Club Brugge, there is no pressure to find a first win in the competition, which only helps.
The league format of the Champions League aids the Rossoneri slightly, because although they have had some difficult openers, they will eventually even out in the latter stages of the new format, but they must get at least a point at the Bernabeu.
Failing to do so would widen the gap between the Diavolo and the qualification spots, and whilst it will not be the death of their chances, it would make it very difficult. Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, Fabio Capello offered his thoughts on the situation, and his words have been relayed by Milan Press.
“AC Milan still suffered against Brugges and cashed in the goal of the momentary 1-1 in numeric superiority. The problem here is also one of organisation, Milan is a team that at the back, at those rhythms, lets anyone through.
“On 5 November I will be at the Bernabeu, against Real it will be very hard: the other night they left the car parked outside for a while, then they started their engines and with Dortmund, there was no match. Milan will have to come up with a super performance.
“Perhaps, paradoxically, the fact that Madrid feel so strong may help, perhaps they may underestimate Fonseca’s men. Although Ancelotti is no Cruijff…”