Real Madrid coach Manuel Pellegrini has admitted his side are feeling confident ahead of the Champions League clash against Lyon in France tomorrow evening, despite being knocked out of the competition at this phase for the last five years.
"The squad is optimistic,” he told a press conference this evening. “We feel confident in the possibility of making it through rather than frustration for failing to do so in recent years."
The Chilean also confirmed French striker Karim Benzema has recovered from his injury and was looking forward to returning to his former stomping ground.
"Benzema is ready to play. He is very happy. Karim is a very important player and people love him here. No doubt the match will be special to him."
The coach also hinted that 'CR9' would be the one to inspire the team to conquer their round-of-16 demons once and for all.
"Cristiano's strength always gives the team a boost in every way. We want to use him to try to help us earn a favorable result here, unlike those earned by the team in recent campaigns."
Pellegrini also confirmed that Brazilian star Kaka had finally put his injury woes behind him and has been playing great.
“Kaka is now playing phenomenally well because he no longer feels any pain. Let's see how far he can really go," he concluded.