García keeps faith in Atlético

Midfielder Raúl García remained defiant that Club Atlético de Madrid could still advance after a 2-2 draw with FC Porto left Jesualdo Ferreira's team as slight favourites to reach the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals.

Second chance
Atlético twice led the first knockout round first-leg encounter thanks to an early strike from Maxi Rodríguez and a fortunate goal from Diego Forlán before the break. On two occasions, however, Lisandro responded for the visitors who had Atlético on the back foot for large parts of the game. The quality of the opposition came as little surprise to Raúl García, who said: "Everyone knew Porto were a good team and they showed that tonight. We know we have another game ahead of us and another 90 minutes to put things right."

No fear
The 22-year-old was chosen ahead of ex-Porto favourite Maniche in the centre of midfield and put in a battling performance against quality opponents. "They're a really tough team but having said that we're not afraid of anyone," added Raúl García, before turning his attention to the return in northern Portugal in two weeks' time. "We have to go there to win and we don't see that as being something which is impossible. In fact, we've got as good a chance as they do. We're still confident we can advance to the next round."

Evenly poised
Antonio López agreed that a place in the last eight was still very much within the Spanish side's grasp ahead of their trip to the Estádio do Dragão on 11 March. "We knew that before we took to the field tonight it was the first of two games against this team," said the full-back. "The guys are fine, and know that the tie is still balanced. There's no point going over there, playing well and then getting knocked out – we need to go and beat them."