Javier Chicharito Hernandez was the hero for Real Madrid as they overcome the challenge of mighty Atletico after an intense battle at Santiago Bernabeu. Los Blancos coach Carlo Ancelotti was very pleased with the result and was full of praise for the deputy of Karim Benzema.
Chicharito was only playing in this game because Karim Benzema was injured. But the Mexican, who missed many chances earlier, scored an easy goal trough the pass of Cristiano Ronaldo in the 88th minute to keep the title defence of Real Madrid alive.
Reak Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti surprised everybody with his team selection as he picked Pepe ahead of Illara and Khedira to play in the midfield. But in spite of different looking midfield, Real Madrid dominated the possession and created many chances in the entire game. But, resolute defending and excellent goal keeping of Atletico Madrid disallowed Real Madrid anything.
Atletico Madrid were good in their defence but were punished for showing lack of ambition and Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti was full of praise for his striker Chicharito after the game.
a Chicharito was a fantastic solution,” Carlo Ancelotti said. “He played really well and with great intensity. He deserved it as he has hasn’t played a lot this season. When I told him he was playing he was ready. He was really professional, I am happy for him.”
The Real Madrid boss also praised his other players for their whole-hearted display against Atletico.
“We played a very good game,” Ancelotti told Sky Sports. “We had good control of the game from the beginning, good possession. We didn’t give them the chance to counterattack. We were strong from set-pieces and we found a solution.”
Meanwhile, coach of the losing side, Diego Simeone, said after the game that despite the result, he is proud of his team.
a Ia m proud of how my team competed. I have a team of men,a Diego Simeone said, AS reports.
a I was taught that in a game you have to compete. If you give your life, you go home happy. Therea s no negative feelings. There are Coaches jealous of having these players.a
Real Madrid will now face either Barca, Bayern or Juve in the semis of UEFA Champions League.