Atletico tie still open, insists Seedorf

AC Milan coach Clarence Seedorf believes his side can come from behind to progress to the Champions League quarter-finals when they face Atletico Madrid on Tuesday. Despite dominating for the first hour, the seven-time European champions lost 1-0 at home in the first leg three weeks ago. Milan have also suffered a horrendous season in Serie A as they lie 11th, a staggering 37 points behind leaders Juventus. However, Seedorf, who replaced Massimiliano Allegri as Milan boss in January, is confident his side can still produce the goods on the biggest stage of all to save their season. "I don't think the result of the first leg will condition the approach of both sides too much. It is a minimal result and the tie is still open," said the former Dutch international on Monday. "The truth is that Milan is a club that has made history in Europe in the past and the players can't forget this. "Despite a difficult year we still look forward to the very important games with excitement." Milan were denied twice by the woodwork and one brilliant save from Atletico 'keeper Thibaut Courtois in the early stages of the first meeting and Seedorf wants his side to start on the front foot once more on Tuesday. "Our way of planning the tie will be similar to the first leg. We will be aggressive and try to score. "We need to fight as a team and show heart. That comes even before the technical or tactical aspects of the game." Seedorf and the trio of Kaka, Michael Essien and Robinho can be assured of a hostile reception at the Vicente Calderon as they are all former Real Madrid players. However, Seedorf insisted that his players should feel inspired rather than cowed by the atmosphere of a huge Champions League game. "I was here for a few years and it is always great to play in these stadiums. More than being worried it brings a lot of enthusiasm. When you play with AC Milan or other big clubs you have to be ready for this type of atmosphere. "It is going to be a great evening of football in a great football stadium and we are going to try and enjoy it." Source: AFP