• Champions League

United 'can't afford any mistakes'

ESPN staff
February 25, 2014
Manchester United manager David Moyes insists his side are taking nothing for granted ahead of their last 16 Champions League clash with Olympiakos

Olympiakos have warned Manchester United ahead of their Champions League clash in Athens on Tuesday that they can't afford to lose given their poor Premier League season.

United have been handed the easiest draw of all four English sides in the last 16, and passage to the quarter-finals would be a bright spot in a domestic campaign that sees David Moyes' team sitting 15 points off leaders Chelsea and 11 points behind fourth-placed Liverpool.

However Olympiakos coach Michel, whose side edged closer to retaining their Greek title after opening up a 23-point lead over their nearest challengers PAOK at the weekend, feels United could buckle under the pressure.

"There's lots at stake for Manchester United in this match," said Michel.

"We know they are not allowed to make any mistakes due to their position in the Premier League and this may weigh too much on their players' shoulders.

"It could be an incentive to them or it could be a burden. People say it'll be a very demanding tie and that's true. They are favourites, but nothing says we can't beat Manchester United."

A 30,000 sell-out crowd are expected to give United a hostile reception at the Karaiskakis Stadium, and Moyes admits his side will be in for a tough game.

Moyes said: "We know Olympiakos. They have a great record here and we know we are going to have to play well to qualify."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd
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