Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti says his players are excited facing Atletico Madrid tonight.

Ancelotti admits he rates the ElDerbi as important as the El Clasico against Barcelona.

He said, “The derby is a great opportunity, whether you're having a good spell or not. They are always special games. It's the two big teams in the capital, there is so much quality on show. They have always been very intense games, great to watch.

"I don't think the fact Atlético lost to Valencia will have an influence on the game. They played well against Lazio, tomorrow is a different match.

“There's always a good atmosphere around the place before a big game like tomorrow. We're excited and hungry, focused on going up against opposition with lots of quality. Excitement for putting in a good performance is the overriding feeling, to continue the good run. We want to take the points as we're trying to win LaLiga, not just to make life hard for Atlético."

Asked about comparisons with the El Clasico, he added: "There is no difference. They are both games we love preparing for, we want to be on the front foot. There is a tension there and we will do all we can to take the game to them."