Atletico Madrid centre-back Miranda has said maintaining defensive shape is the key to stopping Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo -- but that it is more difficult to cope with Barcelona and Lionel Messi.
Ballon d'Or holder Ronaldo, who endured a frustrating start to 2015, showed he had not lost his goal scoring touch when he scored five times in a 9-1 hammering of Granada at the weekend.
The Portugal captain has 45 goals in 34 Madrid appearances this season -- but he has struck only twice in six games against Atletico, who have gained the upper hand in their city rivals.
Brazil international Miranda told Brazilian website Estadao: "To stop Cristiano, you must be very attentive and very organised.
"When we attack, it is important to keep our defensive shape. You must always have a player at his side. If the ball is lost, we must get it back as soon as possible."
Atletico host Real in the Champions League quarterfinal first leg later this month -- a repeat of last year's final -- looking to continue their unbeaten record against them this season.
"They will be two very difficult games," Miranda said. "Real Madrid have a very strong team and are currently the world champions, but they are not unbeatable. We are very competitive."
Miranda's side have found stopping Barcelona more difficult, with the Catalans eliminating them from the Copa del Rey and winning at the Camp Nou in the league earlier this year.
And the defender said stopping Barcelona's interplay was more difficult than dealing with Ronaldo, explaining: "With Barcelona, the difference is that they play a more passing style and have game-changing players like Messi and Neymar."
Atletico host La Liga leaders Barca on the penultimate weekend of the season, with Miranda accepting that defending champions Atletico would find it tough to retain their title.
"We are far from the top, being nine points back," he said. "I think the fight for the title will be difficult. Our objective is to come second or third to ensure a place for the Champions League."