Bayern Munich boss Carlo Ancelotti has recognised that Atletico Madrid’s defensive prowess presents a tough challenge to overcome.

Bayern and Atletico are set to face off in an epic repeat of their Champions League semi-final clash last season and Ancelotti is expecting a grueling encounter at the Vicente Calderon.

Both sides are unbeaten so far this season while Bayern, in particular, have impressed by winning all eight of the matches they have played thus far.

‘It has always been difficult against Atletico and I think it will be another difficult match on Wednesday. They are a very well-organised team,’ Ancelotti told the media, reports Goal.

‘We have been in good form and we have to keep it up against Atletico. Atletico have a very clear philosophy. They are very organised and have recorded some great results in recent years.’

Ancelotti is predicting a tense match and has praised Atletico boss Diego Simeone’s philosophy.

‘Simeone is a good friend of mine. He is one of the best coaches around in the game. Right now the tendency in football is to play directly and on the counter, Atletico are an example of that.

‘It’s all about having effective possession. Possession is important because it allows you to control the game but you need to make the most of your possession, too,’ he concluded.

The game is set to get underway from 20:45.