Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Pedrinho has made clear that the Ukrainian side aim to give Inter and Real Madrid difficult games in this season’s Champions League group stage.

Speaking to Ukrainian broadcaster SBT Sports, as reported by L’Interista, the Ukrainian midfielder expressed confidence that the Ukrainians can get past the Nerazzurri and Real, though he acknowledged that they would be difficult opponents.

The Nerazzurri drew two of the same opponents that they faced in last season’s edition of the Champions League, where they finished bottom of their group despite a highly competitive group which went down to the last day.

They will get the chance to redeem themselves against Real and Shakhtar in this year’s group stage, with last season’s rivals Borussia Monchangladbach replaced by debutants Sheriff Tiraspol.

However, Shakhtar are also determined to make an impression and qualify for the knockouts, having dropped down to the Europa League last season, and will do everything they can to make life difficult for the Nerazzurri.

“We know that in the Champions League it is never easy,” he said. “We have returned toface  a difficult group, with Inter and Real Madrid. We respect them but we will play to qualify. Last year we missed the knockout round narrowly and this year we want to do better.”