Ancelotti hopes Real Madrid meet Botafogo in Intercontinental Cup final

MADRID : Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has heaped praise on Botafogo following Saturday's 3-1 Copa Libertadores final victory over Atletico Mineiro with 10 men after Gregore was sent off after 30 seconds and hopes they meet in the Intercontinental Cup final.

Ancelotti said on Tuesday that he was happy to see a club like Botafogo, where Brazil greats including Garrincha, Jairzinho, Gerson and Carlos Alberto Torres played, win their first continental title and a place in the Intercontinental Cup.

The FIFA tournament, contested by the champions of all six confederations, has been revamped into a new format.

Libertadores title holders Botafogo will play CONCACAF champions Pachuca for the right to face the African-Asian-Pacific Cup winners Al Ahly. European champions Real await in the final which will be held in Doha on Dec. 18.

"I watched the match (Libertadores final) live and really enjoyed it," Ancelotti told a press conference.

"It was a fantastic atmosphere, I was mesmerised. An incredible first minute of the game, with that incredible flying kick (that earned Gregore a red card).

"Then the team's (Botafogo's) attitude and commitment were extraordinary. They played a fantastic match down to 10 men. I'm very happy for Allan who won the Libertadores with Botafogo, which is a historic team in Brazilian football."

Botafogo's 33-year-old defensive midfielder Allan played under Ancelotti at Napoli and Everton.

"For them to be able to finally win the Libertadores for the first time ... yes, I was delighted!," added the Italian.

"I know they still have a couple of games to fight for and reach the (Intercontinental Cup) final but yes, it would be great if it's them against us."

As well as a spot in the Intercontinental Cup,