Former Brazil striker, Rivaldo, has tipped Real Madrid to defeat Chelsea and qualify for the Champions League final.
According to him, Zinedine Zidane’s side have ‘experience’ and ‘know-how’ at this level.
Madrid progressed to the semi-finals of this competition for the 30th time with a 3-1 aggregate victory over Chelsea’s Premier League rivals Liverpool.
Chelsea, meanwhile, proved too strong for Portuguese side Porto in the previous round, winning 2-1 on aggregate to book their place in the semis for the first time in seven years.
Rivaldo told Betfair: “I see Real Madrid as favourite to reach the final because they have a solid and very experienced squad which always tends to play better in these kinds of decisive matches, becoming a specialist in the last decade.
“Chelsea also have their strengths and shouldn’t be discounted, but I think Madrid have more experience to claim another Champions League final spot – and they know how to win it.
“All those press critics of Zinedine Zidane that we saw in the middle of the season seem to have vanished after such a great response from the team.
“At the moment Real Madrid is fighting for the La Liga title and also progressing well in the Champions League, counteracting all the comments about a potential loss of faith in Zidane from the club and players.
“The coach and all the squad must be congratulated for their efforts in turning the situation around in such a great fashion.”