Garcia: Huge performance to overcome Real

"It's a good draw," revealed the Giallorossi coach. "Coming up against a team that is aiming to win the whole competition is a wonderful opportunity. They are the favourites and we'll have to put in a massive performance to reach the quarters."

The Frenchman has come across the Spanish side twice already as Roma boss, winning on both occasions.

"Since I've been here, we've only played against them in friendlies and it has gone well. Now this fixture is taking place in the biggest club competition in the world, so it will be a completely different story. Let's hope all our players are available in February. If we're at full strength, Roma have every chance of winning the tie."

After crossing paths with Barcelona's Lionel Messi in the group stages, now the Giallorossi will have to shackle another world-class player in Cristiano Ronaldo.

"This is one of the reasons why we compete in the Champions League – to challenge the top teams and see the best players in the world step out at the Stadio Olimpico. It will be a great occasion for the crowd and the whole of Rome."

Would you have preferred another team?
"All the clubs in the Round of 16 are excellent sides, but Real Madrid are one of the favourites to lift the trophy at the end of the season. This makes it an even better experience for us. We all gathered together this morning – players and staff – and I saw how the group reacted to the draw. They have to be fired up for the Coppa Italia game on Wednesday and Genoa this weekend as well, but they cannot wait to tackle Real Madrid in the Champions League."

Will we be able to experience a big-match crowd at the Olimpico?

"The fans spurred Napoli on at the stadium on Sunday and I mentioned that it's very important to pack out your home ground. I've experienced two years of the Olimpico at full capacity with the Curva Sud driving the team on – it helps you pick up points in the league and get through rounds in cup competitions. I hope this issue can be resolved and the stadium will be bursting on 17 February."

How is the squad doing after the draw against Napoli?

"The squad is doing well. We know that we gained a vital point yesterday at the Stadio San Paolo, although we're also aware we could have performed better. Drawing without conceding a goal is a decent result bearing in mind the opposition's current run of form."