Carlos: Europe sees the real Madrid

Speaking following their recent Champions League victory over Porto, the Brazilian full back explained that he felt the more open nature of European competition suited Real's naturally attacking style of play.

"We have more free spaces when we play in Europe," declared the former Internazionale star.

"In Spain our rivals respect us much more, they defend themselves and it is difficult for us to break their down tactics.

"In Europe the teams try to attack us so we feel comfortable with that way of playing, but besides that we don't have any advantage because it's a very difficult competition."

Carlos also admitted that the stinging criticism the side had received following last weekend's comprehensive defeat at Valencia had spurred them on to victory in Oporto.

"Nobody likes to lose like we did the other day (at Valencia).

"We all knew that it was a good moment to react."