Miranda has described this week’s Champions League derby with Real Madrid as Atletico Madrid’s ‘biggest game of the season.’
The sides meet on Tuesday in a repeat of last year’s Champions League final with Atletico going into the tie on the back of a draw with Malaga, while Madrid soundly beat Eibar.
“It was an important point for the team,” Miranda said of the result at La Rosaleda in an interview with AS.
“We knew how difficult it was to play at Malaga and the match was a little crazy, very open and anyone could win.
“It was an important point and I hope that at the end of the League it is worth a lot. We wanted the victory but the point is very valuable.
“It was a tough game and we had to fight a lot. We know we play these types of games and the important thing is to always concentrate.
“I’m optimistic [about playing Madrid]. We have the biggest game of the season, we rely on our strengths and we’ll go for the win.
“Real are a great rival, one of the best teams in the world. But we fight to win the match and get through this tie.
“Playing Madrid and Barcelona is always very nice because they are big teams. We want to prove ourselves in games such as these.
“[Atleti and Madrid] know each other very well, the qualities of one another and the difficulties of winning the game.
“We face the game for what it is, a great game. And each game has its own story. Now we want to write a new one, playing at home, in front of our fans, and looking for the win.
“Our message is one of optimism. I’m sure Vicente Calderon will be full and the fans will support us from the first to the last moment. We’ll give them everything and look for the win from the first to the last moment.
“It’s vital to win the match. We’re playing in front of our supporters and Atletico have an obligation to win.”
Miranda ended the interview on a personal note, reflecting on his own form and fitness after a period on the injured list.
“It’s true that I’m feeling very good,” he confirmed.
“I was playing well but then I had an injury that hurt me a bit. Two injuries followed and I had to go through my recovery.
“But now I’m fit and I’ve arrived safely for the most important time of the season, fighting in the Champions League and beyond. I can help the team.”
