Ronaldo & Mourinho are not accepted in Spain, says Pizzi

Feb 23, 2013 2:10:00 AM

The Deportivo striker believes his compatriots are loved and hated in equal measure, and is hoping to help his side pull off a shock victory against Real Madrid

Deportivo La Coruna forward Pizzi believes that Real Madrid's Portuguese duo Cristiano Ronaldo and Jose Mourinho are not popular in Spain.

The Blancos pair have divided opinion since arriving in La Liga, but the 23-year-old has leapt to the defence of his heavily-criticised compatriots.

"In Spain and other places both are either accepted with open arms or are completely disliked," he was quoted as saying by Marca.

"I know Cristiano well, he is a team-mate in the national team and is a great person and a great player. As for Mourinho, the titles speak for him. He is a great coach."

Looking ahead to the match, Pizzi said his side are hoping to emulate the likes of Granada in securing a shock victory over the Spanish champions.

"We are prepared to suffer against some of the best players in the world. But nothing is impossible and we want to give joy to the fans so we will try our best from the first minute," he continued.

"You have to stay focused and give more than what we have in other games. Our coach has told us that we have to be calm, united and supportive of each other.

"Other teams have done well against Madrid like Granada so it is possible."