Villarreal defender Mateo Muscacchio is eager to test himself against Real Madrid and insists he’s not intimidated by Los Blancos.
Madrid have scored 13 goals in their last two League outings, putting eight past Deportivo La Coruna at Riazor before netting five at home to Elche.
Cristiano Ronaldo claimed seven of those goals but Musacchio has told an interview with AS that he is energised by the prospect of playing Carlo Ancelotti’s side.
“We’re always ready to play and enjoy a game like this. Hopefully it will be a great match and we’re going with the idea of doing something great against one of the best teams in the world,” Musacchio said.
“There’s no fear. There must never be fear. Rather than scared, it’s just the opposite. It’s extra motivation and enthusiasm to play games like this.
“I assure you, we are all crazily looking forward to this match. We’re motivated and we’re a very competitive team. We’re strong, we’ve started well and we’re at a good level.”
Asked directly about Ronaldo, Musacchio acknowledged how difficult a player such as the Portuguese can be to handle, but warned he’s not the only one to watch out for.
“Players like him, if they’re successful, are very difficult to stop and they can define a match,” the Argentine added.
“Players like him, and Gareth Bale as well, they there to support everyone else and we have to concentrate to our maximum and help our teammates at every occasion.
“[Marcelino] has told us to trust ourselves, that we are a great team and we can beat them. He reminded us that we have played them and stood up to them, so we can do it again.
“I think we can beat them and I’m sure we can. It’s difficult, they’re a strong team and have the best player in the world, we know that. But we know what we need to do and it’s clear.
“We know what to do and if we are to do it, it will be very difficult.”