Del Bosque admits Milan defeat a blow to Real

Vicente del Bosque admitted Real Madrid's defeat at AC Milan was "a step back" in their bid to defend their Champions League title.

Andrei Shevchenko netted Milan's winner five minutes before half-time in the 1-0 victory.

Del Bosque said: "It has been a step back for us. It was an intense encounter between two great teams."

"AC Milan played great attacking football, although that shouldn't be a surprise as they were playing at home."

He continued, "It was unfortunate that just when Real Madrid were getting on top, Milan scored their goal."

"I don't believe the losses of some of our players (like Ronaldo, Makelele, Guti or Hierro) had an influence on the result."