Ronaldinho hungry for goals in Libertadores decider

Belo Horizonte, July 24 (IANS): Ronaldinho says Atletico Mineiro will attack from the outset in a bid to overcome a 0-2 deficit against Olimpia in second leg of the Copa Libertadores final here.

The Brazilian outfit need at least three goals to clinch its maiden Libertadores title on Wednesday while Paraguay’s Olimpia are aiming to win South America’s elite club competition for the fourth time.

“We are not going to be afraid to attack,” Ronaldinho said on Tuesday. “If they want to sit back and defend it is going to be a game of attack against defence.

“We have to pay special attention to the possibility of them catching us out on the counter-attack because they have some quality players. But we are going to be positive from the start and try to score as early as possible to get the fans even more excited.”

Ronaldinho was last week benched in the 64th minute after failing to make an impact during the first-leg in Asuncion.

Having won the World Cup with Brazil in 2002 and the UEFA Champions League with Barcelona in 2006, Ronaldinho admits the Copa Libertadores is the most important trophy he is yet to win.

He said the support of more than 60,000 home fans at the revamped Mineirao World Cup stadium could prove the difference in the deciding match.

“I am lucky in finals. I usually score and hope that my good fortune continues,” the two-time FIFA world player of the year said.

“I will be forever grateful to these fans for the support they have given me. I have felt at home ever since I arrived at Atletico. The fans have provided a motivating force and we want to do all we can to make them happy.”

Ronaldinho showed a hint of frustration at the number of questions directed at him and stressed his focus was on helping Atletico, not his own personal glory.

“I always think of the group. I want it to be Atletico’s day, not Ronaldinho’s. But I also want to contribute if I can with a good pass or an assist, and help the club make history by winning this title,” he concluded.