Ferguson Sets Away Goal Target
Alex Ferguson has hailed Manchester United's clash with holders Real Madrid in next month's Champions League quarter-finals as a mouth-watering prospect.
"It's without question a fantastic, attractive draw against the most successful side of all time in this competition," United manager Ferguson told reporters on Friday.
"Their history is steeped in (tradition) and they have some fantastic players. But we have learned in Europe."
Ferguson insisted his side were better equipped to beat the nine times champions in the quarter-finals than the last time the two sides met.
United drew 0-0 in Spain before losing 3-2 at home in the last eight the season after winning the competition in 1999.
"Three years ago when we met them we played with our hearts and not our heads and it ended up a disappointing night," he said.
"Hopefully we will have learned something out of that disappointment and be more aware of what is going on this time.
"If you get Real Madrid in the quarter-final you know you are in the business end of the game."
Ferguson has set his side a target of scoring in the opening match to have a chance of reaching the semi-finals.
"In a two-legged game with the first leg away, it's a situation where we have to score," he said.
"If we get a couple of goals then it will be a marvellous bonus to take back to Old Trafford."