Real Madrid have made a perfect start to their Champions League campaign, winning all three of their opening matches. However, head coach José Mourinho has warned his players not to underestimate the challenge of facing AEK Athens in Greece.

Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s match, Mourinho highlighted an unusual statistic: Real Madrid have won only one of their last eight away matches against Greek clubs in UEFA competitions. The Spanish giants have drawn five and lost two of those games.

Real Madrid will face Greek champions AEK Athens on Wednesday, with kick-off scheduled for 6:45 pm CET, or 11:45 pm Bangladesh time. Mourinho stressed that his side still need more points to secure direct qualification for the round of 16.

“We have to take this seriously. We are close to qualifying for the playoffs, but still far from securing a direct place in the round of 16. We need points, and we must play a serious match against a strong team, especially at their home stadium,” Mourinho said at his pre-match press conference.

Greece has been a difficult destination for Madrid

Mourinho used Real Madrid’s record in Greece to underline the challenge awaiting his team. Their only victory in the last eight UEFA away matches against Greek clubs came at Olympiacos last season, in a difficult 4-3 win.

“The kings of Europe, Real Madrid, have only won once in eight matches in Greece. That statistic says a lot. We have to give our best, stay focused and maintain our level of performance. Otherwise, we will not win,” the Portuguese coach said.

Mourinho also has personal experience of playing in Greece and understands how difficult the atmosphere can be for visiting teams.

The Real Madrid shirt motivates every opponent

The Madrid manager believes opponents are naturally more motivated when they face a club with Real Madrid’s history and reputation.

“Whenever an opponent sees our players wearing the white shirt, they become highly motivated. That is an honour for us, but it is also the reality. We have to be at our best to win this match. If we are not in top form, we will not get the result,” he added.

Real Madrid have collected nine points from their first three Champions League matches and are targeting another victory to strengthen their position in the league phase. AEK Athens, meanwhile, will be hoping to use home advantage to trouble the European giants.