Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso is confident of their chances against Champions League opponents Manchester United.

The former Liverpool midfielder, 31, will start for Real Madrid at the Bernabeu on Wednesday and believes his manager Jose Mourinho's tactical nous should see them through.

"We know how tough these games will be - but we are confident we have the ability to beat Manchester United over the two games," said Alonso, who won just one of his seven meetings with Sir Alex Ferguson's sides in his time at Anfield.

"They are a very strong team this season but we are feeling prepared for the two games and believe we will progress. It is the battle of not just two great teams but also two great coaches.

"You have to respect Sir Alex Ferguson for all he has achieved in English football. But Mourinho is tactically the best in the world - he has the ability to triumph over any coach."