After its resounding 3-1 victory over rival Barcelona in the Copa del Rey semifinal, Real Madrid decided to send injured goalie Iker Casillas to address the media.
“We’ve decided it was a good time to send the (team) captain out. It’s a moment to share with Madrid supporters for them to enjoy it. We are more relaxed and encouraged about what’s left of the season,” Casillas said.
The Madrid icon lauded the overall game of his team, saying they controlled Barcelona in all facets of the game.
“The team deserves a 10.”
While coach Jose Mourinho was absent, Casillas didn’t miss the opportunity to compliment his coach. “I think the game was well planned, defensively the team was serious and it played well with its bases. Madrid has beaten Barcelona in the tactical aspect.”
He also singled out Cristiano Ronaldo, who scored a brace.
“Cristiano is a very important player. He is our point of reference, and he has shown his quality. We are happy for that.”
For his part, Ronaldo, lauded his team’s play which comes after a rich vein of form.
“It was a very good game for us. We played a focused game with a great attitude. We played better and scored three goals, which is difficult. We are in good form because we have played a great game,” he told media.
The Portuguese winger also said the result would give his squad confidence ahead of its big Champions League game against Manchester United next week, but acknowledged that the next Clasico scheduled for Saturday had lost much of its meeting.
Ronaldo’s performance and his victory in a personal duel with Lionel Messi expectedly set off comments about his stature in the world game.
“Cristiano is the best in the world and in these games he always shows up,” said defender Sergio Ramos.
