Real Madrid’s rout of Athletic Bilbao was the best the team has played since the European Super Cup final in August, according to boss Carlo Ancelotti.
Los Blancos ran out 5-0 winners at the Santiago Bernabeu, Cristiano Ronaldo scoring yet another hat trick that brings him level with club legend Alfredo di Stefano on 26. Karim Benzema also kept up his recent good form by netting a brace.
Prior to the game, Ancelotti had spoken about the need for defensive improvement. Although currently on a fine run of form, Los Blancos have looked vunerable at set pieces.
Talking to the press after the match, the Italian said he was pleased with what he had seen.
“It was undoubtedly the best match since the final of the European Super Cup in Cardiff. I think the team look good. We are playing much better than at this time last year. We’re on a good run. We were more alert on set-pieces today and everything went well,” he stated.
And he continued: “It was a very good match, we’re all very happy because we played as we always want to play. Everything went well in attack and defence. The whole team had a good match.”
Ancelotti singled out Ronaldo for praise after another fine display and said there is little doubt who will win the Ballon d’Or.
“There’s little doubt this year, I think. I don’t think there are any bets because I don’t think there’s any doubt this year.”
