Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain believes that his side have the players to “damage” Manchester United in their Champions League clash.

The Galacticos are targeting a tenth European Cup this term, in what could prove to be Jose Mourinho’s final campaign in the Spanish capital.

As runners-up in Group B, Real face United in the final 16 with first-leg to be played at the Bernabeu.

Higuain, a full Argentine international, believes that the Premier League leaders will be tough opposition, but is confident that his side have enough strength to book a spot in the quarter finals:

"They (United) are quite a compact team. They always make it to the knockout rounds in European competition and we're going to have to be on our toes.” He told Bwin’s official website.

"But we can do a lot of damage with individual quality and with counter-attacks, although we can't forget we need to have a solid defence, a winning mentality and team-spirit."

The 25-year-old also called on his defensive team-mates to keep a clean sheet, with away goals often proving to be vital in close run knockout games:

"Our goal must be to win and if we don't concede then so much the better. We know that an away goal can really influence things,

"We also want our fans to get behind us. The team always tries to do its best, sometimes it goes well and sometimes it doesn't.

"There's no doubt we are going to go out and give it everything."

Higuain himself has been linked with a move away from Real in recent times, as the club look to strengthen their attacking options.

With Radamel Falcao a target, the 25-year-old may be on the market at the end of the current season.

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