Van Nistelrooy: Malaga have nothing to lose

The former Netherlands international has revealed his delight at seeing his former club reach new heights in European competition

Ruud van Nistelrooy says Malaga have "nothing to lose" after they booked their place in the Champions League quarter-finals.

Goals from Isco and Roque Santa Cruz were enough for los Boquerones to overturn a 1-0 deficit from the first-leg of their last 16 tie and knock Porto out of the competition at La Rosaleda.

"I am very happy for the team and players. I’m very happy for Roque, he deserves everything. It has been a great night of football," he told Canal Plus.

"Apart from the first 20 minutes, we played very well and deserved the win against Porto, who are a great team."

It is Malaga’s maiden voyage in the competition and despite being faced with the prospect of coming up against one of Europe's biggest clubs, the 36-year-old believes it no longer matters who his former side is drawn against, and urged them to simply savour the moment.

“It's their first time playing in the Champions League and  Malaga is already in the quarters. It’s a time to enjoy and at this point Malaga has nothing to lose."