Real Madrid recovered from a turbulent week to see off Deportivo la Coruna at the Santiago Bernabeu with the help of goals from Isco and Karim Benzema. The Los Blancos were made to work hard by stubborn Deportivo but Carlo Ancelotti was happy with the way his players reacted to the recent setbacks.
Real Madrid players, especially Cristiano Ronaldo, came in for a criticism after suffering a humiliating 4-0 hammering at the hands of Atletico Madrid last week. They were made to work hard by the visiting side but the goals from Isco and Karim Benzema in each half proved enough to secure a much needed victory.
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti was very pleased with the efforts of his players. “It was important to be motivated and concentrate in order to win the game, ultimately we did well”, Ancelotti stated.
The team reacted very well after a strange week. I expected to see this Real Madrid side. We were going to have difficulties but it was important to have the concentration and motivation needed to win, and in the end we did well”.
“It was not an easy game. We played part of it well but we also had difficulties. It was a strange week, delicate and complicated and we have emerged with a win that is good for doing what we have always done. Today we partly did this. The team was focussed and things turned out well in the end”.
Carlo Ancelotti and some of the Real Madrid players were jeered by the fans at Santiago Bernabeu. But Ancelotti downplayed the importance of this incidence.
a It is normal to have criticism. It is frustrating to lose a derby game 4-0, frustrating for the fans and frustrating for us. It is more complicated supporting a team when things are difficult and the team is grateful. The fans helped us a lot and they understood what the team was going through”.
Real Madrid striker Gareth Bale came very close to score when he hit a wood work in the first half. But he said later that he is happier with the way players reacted to the recent incidents than his own missed opportunity.
“The team produced a very positive reaction after the defeat last weekend and we’re still top of the table. I’m happy with the game today. I wasn’t able to score, but I’m happy.”
“Schalke are a top side. We’re going to look for a win in Germany to take a good lead into the return leg. We’re all really looking forward to playing in the Champions League again.”