[D-Kin]

Canna confident for Madrid Wednesday 20 February, 2008

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Fabio Cannavaro is confident Real Madrid can still progress despite their 2-1 defeat and Roma’s talent for the counter-attack.

“It’s a shame, as we deserved something more today. Ruud Van Nistelrooy hit the post and there was a penalty on Royston Drenthe, while Roma scored with their only real chances,” said the 2006 World Cup winner.

“Robinho was missing and he allows you to get more pressure down the flanks, plus Ruud missed a goal he never usually does! Robinho should recover in time for the second leg and he is a decisive player.”

The 2-1 first leg result means Real must win at the Bernabeu, but that could leave them very open at the back.

“Roma are great on the counter, but then we are used to that, as the team always pushes forward and leaves me alone back there!

“We are a team who do not change our approach when we take the lead, we keep pushing and that can leave us open to conceding goals that other sides might not.”

Nonetheless, Cannavaro is confident his Real Madrid side can see off the Giallorossi in the second leg.

“I have to bet on Real getting through to the next round, as we have the desire and the quality to overturn the result.”

The Italy hero also commented on Francesco Totti’s changing career in a more advanced role.

“Francesco has changed his style of play, as he works as a centre-forward now and both goals had his influence.

“Even if he doesn’t dribble past three defenders the way he used to, he remains crucial for this team.”

channel4.com - Football Italia