Atlético Madrid defender João Miranda believes his team have to defeat Real Madrid in Sunday’s city derby if they are to win the La Liga title.
The Brazilian defender spoke with AS.com about tomorrow’s tie and the quality of the opposition.
Miranda said: "It’s a difficult match. It’s a cup final for us. We know that it’s a must-win game, because if we lose people will say we’re far away from winning the championship.
"A six-point deficit would make [winning] the league very difficult. We have to be on our guard and go out to win."
Madrid scored six goals in the Champions League midweek against Schalke and the 29-year-old insists Atlético’s defence has to be on form to keep ‘BBC’ – Gareth Bale, Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo – quiet.
"It’s a strength we have to use if we want to beat Madrid," said Miranda on Los Rojiblancos defence.
"We have to be intense and compact; we know that it’s going to be a difficult match. Madrid are now solid and competitive.
"I saw a bit of the match (v Schalke); it was very easy for Madrid. Their forwards are really good. We have a very solid defence and we’re going to make life difficult for them.
"It’s going to be difficult, but beating Madrid is better when they’re in good form."
