Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone has paid tribute to Tuesday's Champions League last-16 rivals AC Milan.

The Italian side travel to the Spanish capital for the second leg this week, trailing 1-0 from the clash at the San Siro last month. However, despite the advantage, Simeone has called on his side to respect the Italian giants.

"Milan is a very strong institution in the history of football," Simeone told reporters.

"They are used to this competition and have very talented players. They have the set up for a defining game.

"Mario Balotelli is a dominant player but Milan has other danger areas around the team and the players that find him with the ball. He is dangerous but he needs his teammates around him."

Atletico are currently unbeaten in this season's Champions League.