Xabi expects tough test

Last updated : 25 February 2009 By Al Campbell
Alonso believes Real Madrid have tightened up defensively since Juande Ramos was appointed manager and it will be difficult for Liverpool to break them down.

"They are currently playing as a very compact unit. Of course, they have very good strikers like Raul, Robben and Higuain, but they have found a team that is very consistent with four defenders and two midfielders who are all very strong, and that is something that we will have to be aware of," said the Basque.

"I expect them to try and win the game and not concede, but we will
have a gameplan and will try to play intelligently. It's always key
to try and score in the away leg of a European tie, so that will be our idea."