Carlo Ancelotti has admitted that Real Madrid’s upcoming Champions League Round of 16 second-leg clash against Atletico Madrid will be far from easy.

Despite holding a 2-1 advantage from the first leg, the Italian coach remains cautious about the challenge that awaits Los Blancos at the Wanda Metropolitano.

Speaking after Real Madrid’s hard-fought victory at the Santiago Bernabéu, Ancelotti acknowledged the difficulty of facing Diego Simeone’s side once again:

“We don’t like playing against Atletico. It’s very difficult. It will be a lot harder next week.”

While Real Madrid hold a slim lead, Ancelotti knows that nothing is guaranteed and expects a fierce battle in the return fixture.

“I think we have a small advantage and we will look to get through the game. It will be difficult, Atletico will put in more effort but it will be equal.”

The first leg at the Bernabéu showcased the high level of quality both teams possess, and Ancelotti believes the tie could have easily been worthy of a later stage in the competition.

“The game was equal and the quality of both teams is very high. It is a last-16 game but it could be a semi-final or a final. We are not happy to play this game against Atleti and I do not think Atletico are happy to play either.”

Real Madrid have now secured their first win over Atletico this season after drawing both La Liga meetings 1-1. However, Ancelotti’s men know that avoiding defeat at the Wanda Metropolitano is all they need to book their place in the Champions League quarter-finals.

With everything still to play for, Los Blancos must be at their best to overcome their city rivals and continue their European journey.