'We are used to difficult situations' - Atletico Madrid's Partey boasts ahead of Liverpool clash

Kunle Fayiga

'We are used to difficult situations' - Atletico Madrid's Partey boasts ahead of Liverpool clash image

Thomas Partey has asserted that Atletico Madrid are "used to difficult situations" hence are well prepared to host reigning Champions League kings Liverpool in the first leg Round of 16 tie at the Wanda Metropolitano. 

Los Rojiblancos - who have generally struggled for form this season - were on the cusp of elimination during the group phase, but clinched a 2-0 win over Lokomotiv Moscow to get the desired job done. 

Watch the knockout rounds of Champions League exclusively on DAZN (start your free trial)

The Reds, meanwhile topped Group E, with only Napoli stopping them in their tracks.

"We know it's not going to be easy,"  Partey told CNN.

"But every team who gets to the last 16 is one of the best teams in Europe. We're used to difficult situations.

"We'll do our homework and I'm sure we'll be at the level we're supposed to be. 

"We don't think of the end, we focus on now, and build our confidence until we can achieve what we are going to achieve."

Partey has featured in every Champions League game this season, scoring one goal and providing an assist.

The 26-year-old Ghana international has averaged 1.5 shots per game in the competition, 86.2 touches, 60.3 accurate passes (87%) and 1.8 successful dribbles (92%).

On the defensive side, Partey has averaged 1.2 interceptions per game, 3.3 tackles and 7.7 total duels won (64%).

 

Kunle Fayiga