Atalanta capable of 'making life very difficult' for Real Madrid

Just ahead of their European meeting with the La Liga champions, the Serie A side gained a major confidence boost with a dominating victory.

Luis Muriel has sent a warning to Real Madrid before their clash against Atalanta in the Champions League saying his side can “make life very difficult” for the upcoming opponents.

Muriel put on a fine display as Atalanta cruised to a 4-2 victory against Napoli on Sunday evening.

The striker helped open the scoring, setting striker partner Duvan Zapata up, and then got on the scoresheet himself to ensure that his side climb up to fourth place in the Serie A standings.

Gian Piero Gasperini’s men now prepare for a thrilling contest as they face the mighty Real Madrid in the Champions League Round of 16 first-leg tie on Wednesday.

“It was very important that we win today and the victory could be crucial in the race for the Champions League places, it also gives us a big boost for Wednesday’s game with Real Madrid,” Muriel told Sky Sport Italia after the full-time whistle at the Atleti Azzurri d’Italia.

We’ve got it into our heads that we want a run of victories in Serie A to make up for dropping points earlier in the season, so we gave our all.

“If we can play with this balance, this attacking verve, creating this many chances, then we can make life very difficult for Real Madrid.

“We want to make the most of this unique opportunity and prove that we are up to the task.

“It was certainly one of our best performances, especially as it was against such a strong opponent. I am getting more playing time lately and I want to make the most of it.”