Diego Carlos says Aston Villa must be strong mentally and physically as they look to reach the Europa Conference League semi-finals.
LOSC Lille stand in their way in the second leg of their quarter-final tie, which is finely poised following a 2-1 Villa victory last week.
Heading to the Stade Pierre-Mauroy, Carlos is anticipating a hard-fought contest.
“The most important thing is to start the game strong, mentally strong,” he said.
“We need to forget the first game and start from the first minute trying to win the game.
“It’s not easy because the first game at Villa Park was tough and Lille played well.
“They have good players, they played together and they played strongly.
“We have to have quality and try to win there.”
Villa journey to the north of France in good spirits after pulling off a 2-0 win against title-chasers Arsenal on Sunday.
Carlos won Premier League Player of the Match for his display in the heart of defence, and he was proud of the achievement.
He said: “It’s my second time as Player of the Match and I’m very happy because I work hard every day.
“I’m very happy with this moment because I had a big problem last season. Now, I have a good sensation with my body and I’m feeling confident.
“I came back stronger in my head and in my body. I’m very happy with everything.”
