Paolo Maldini was praised by Thierry Henry before the Champions League semi-final.
The French football legend recalled their 1998 World Cup encounter.
What happened?
Thierry Henry and Paolo Maldini spoke before the UCL semi-final.
Henry heaped praise onto the iconic defender, saying he was scared of Maldini.
Why it matters for Paolo Maldini
Maldini's side, AC Milan, lost to Inter 2-0 in the first leg.
The Italian watched his team's poor defensive display.
What comes next?
AC Milan will have to put together a huge performance in the second leg.
They need to win at the San Siro to reach the Champions League final.
Paolo Maldini won seven Scudetti and five Champions League titles with Milan.
He now serves as the club's technical director.
Thierry Henry spent half a season with Juventus before moving to Arsenal.
He briefly played in the same division as Maldini.
The two greats enjoyed an entertaining exchange before the match.
Henry said Maldini epitomises what defending is about.
Maldini's human side is even better than his playing career, according to Henry.
He brought a winning mentality to Milan.
Henry finished by saying he used to be scared of Maldini.
The Frenchman recalled their 1998 World Cup quarter-finals encounter.
Les Bleus advanced to the last four after beating Italy on penalties.
The match ended goalless after 120 minutes.
Paolo Maldini's team will have to improve their defensive display.
They need a huge performance in the second leg to reach the final.
The second leg will be played at the San Siro.
AC Milan need to win to advance to the Champions League final.
Paolo Maldini's experience will be crucial for his team.
He won numerous titles with Milan during his playing career.
Thierry Henry's praise for Maldini is a testament to his skills.
The Italian is widely regarded as one of the best defenders in football history.