Ancelotti: Real feels for Shakhtar and has real respect for them

Carlo Ancelotti addressed the media at the Legia Warszawa on the eve of the Champions League group stage Matchday 4 encounter between Real Madrid and Shakhtar Donetsk:

"The challenge for us is to make sure the players recovery properly and we then assess whether they’re tired. Tonight's training session will be important and I'll name the right team to win the game. We've got the chance to, and will be looking to put the group stage to bed. That'll be important for us.”

“Getting out of the group stage is our first objective of the season and the sooner we do that, the better. That can help to give you more energy for the league season, but you've got to realise that when it comes to the Champions League, Real Madrid can't possibly consider not putting in a strong performance. If we're lucky enough to qualify tomorrow night, we’ll then go on to put in two strong performances and will want to win both games.”

“I spoke to Jovićević in the first leg. They are struggling to go about their work and we feel for them and have real respect for them. Having the desire to play with those challenges means a lot for them and they want to give a good account of themselves as a club and Ukrainian people who are suffering.”