MODRIC: WE HAVE TO PROVE WE’RE BEST IN THE WORLD, FOR REAL

LUKA MODRIC says Real Madrid must show they are the best team in the world if they are to beat Manchester City and reach the Champions League final.

Real trail 4-3 after an epic first leg at the Etihad, but playmaker Modric (above, right) said the 13-time winners can progress – but only if they produce their best against Pep Guardiola’s side.

“The mood in the squad is good and we’re excited to play,” said Modric. “We know what we have to do. We know it’s going to be the most important game this season. We know we’ll have to put in the best performance of the year.

“We’ve trained hard, we’re more than ready to play and move to the final. We will do what we always do – play with faith and a lot of energy.

“We have to show them we’re Real Madrid, show everyone we’re the best team in the world. Our fans need to be in the game from the start. They always have a strong influence on the game.”

Modric denied suggestions Real have been lucky in the Champions League, having staged big comebacks in the previous rounds to overcome Paris Saint-germain and Chelsea.

He added: “We don’t always win and when we don’t, people criticise us, which feels unfair. But everyone is entitled to their own opinion.

“We don’t care what people say on the outside, because making it this far year after year, winning Champions League and La Liga titles, it’s not something that happens out of luck. You have to be a team of good players, believe and have team spirit. That is what enables us to win titles.”

Real coach Carlo Ancelotti said: “Our approach in the first leg was the right one, but we need to add more quality and pressurise them.

“We won’t be moving our defensive line back, but there will be moments we will have to play closer to our box.”