[han2503]

Champions League 2006/07 - 1/4 finals (2nd leg)

Bayern - Milan

Wednesday, 11th of April, 2007

Time: 19:45 (UK), 20:45 (IT)

[han2503]

Ancelotti rides Empoli wave

Carlo Ancelotti hopes that the victory over Empoli can boost Milan’s morale for the “very difficult” clash with Bayern Munich.

“We started well and passed the ball around quickly, so the strikers were supported by some good build-up play,” he noted after the 3-1 win at San Siro.

Ronaldo opened the scoring and set up Alberto Gilardino’s goal before Giuseppe Favalli sealed the scoreline. Luca Saudati netted for the visitors.

“If he has space, Ronaldo can disturb any defence. If he has another striker to focus on like Gilardino, then he links in with the overall play even more.”

Yoann Gourcuff was given a rare start in midfield, as Clarence Seedorf is dealing with a slight injury.

“He is a lad Milan are counting on, because he has enormous potential. He has found his own role here and will continue to increase his influence.

“He has to speed up a little in passing the ball, but he has a lot of confidence with the ball at his feet and it’s tough to get it off him. He loves the ball a little too much, a bit like Zinedine Zidane.”

Ancelotti was expected to also rest Andrea Pirlo and Gennaro Gattuso for Wednesday’s Champions League quarter-final, but instead they played the whole 90 minutes.

“They are in great shape and also did well against Bayern this week, which is why I wanted them here for this important match.”

The win over Empoli sees the Rossoneri move to fifth place – just one point off Palermo who have played an extra game – but the focus now moves to Munich.

“Bayern are an excellent side and we have a tough task ahead of us,” said Ancelotti after the 2-2 first leg draw at San Siro.

“Our objective is to play the way we did in that first game. If we do, then we have a good chance of reaching the semi-finals.”

However, Ronaldo is cup-tied and Gilardino suspended, so Pippo Inzaghi and Ricardo Oliveira are the only available options upfront.

“Inzaghi is not in good shape, but he will do everything he can to be at his best. This is a player who can be a crucial weapon for us.”

I think that seals our faith for us in this season's CL (IMG:http://cyrus.medialayer.net/~m1ke/milanfan.com/forums/style_emoticons/default/sad.gif)