Corona: "A hot atmosphere awaits in Athens against Real Madrid"

Miguel Ángel Corona, who rose through the Real Madrid academy and currently serves as a sporting advisor at Panathinaikos, has shared his thoughts on the upcoming Champions League encounter between the Spanish giants and AEK Athens. Given his extensive experience within Greek football, Corona believes the visitors will face a stern test in Athens.

"Greek football is very emotional and intense. It is a country with a huge passion for the sport, and big matches carry significant weight," Corona stated. He expects a high-pressure environment at the stadium, with the local fans creating a challenging setting for the visiting side.

Assessing AEK's squad, Corona highlighted their physical approach. "They are a team with a lot of rhythm and physicality. Their center-backs are very strong, and their strikers, like Luka Jović, are physically imposing and hard to mark. However, the speed that Real Madrid possesses up front could prove to be the difference-maker," he explained.

Corona also noted the significance of the absence of Pineda, whom he described as the "soul of the team," suggesting his presence is a major gap in the tactical structure of the Greek side.