Raul expecting open contest in Madrid

Real Madrid expect Manchester United to attack them with everything they've got when the sides meet at the Bernabeu tomorrow …

Real Madrid expect Manchester United to attack them with everything they've got when the sides meet at the Bernabeu tomorrow in the eagerly awaited Champions League quarter-final first leg.

The last time the teams met in Europe - three years ago - United came away from the Spanish capital with a goalless draw, only to lose the return leg at Old Trafford 3-2.

United manager Alex Ferguson has already indicated that an away goal will be a priority for his side this time and Real are hoping that will mean an open, attacking game that will suit their swashbuckling style.

"I hope United come out on the attack," said Real Madrid forward Raul. "With the players they've got in their team it's what they do best.

READ MORE

"They're similar to us in that sense. With people like Ryan Giggs, David Beckham and Ruud van Nistelrooy they're always going to be looking for goals and especially so at the Bernabeu."

Looking back on the 2000 quarter-final, Raul said his side had turned in a miraculous performance to win at Old Trafford.

"No one gave us a chance in that game after the goalless draw here," the Spanish international said. "We pulled off a miracle, though.

"I think we're two sides that can win away from home so while both of us will be trying to win on Tuesday, the tie will be settled in the second leg."

Real coach Vicente del Bosque agreed that United were unlikely to come out on the defensive.

"Manchester United are capable of hurting you at any moment," Del Bosque said. "They have a well defined style and they're going to play the way they know how.

"We've no idea how important an away goal is going to be, though. If they score one and we score four or five that will be a perfect result from our point of view."