Mateo Kovacic has thanked Real Madrid boss Rafa Benitez for the trust placed in him after the Croatian played his part in Los Blancos’ 2-1 win over Athletic Bilbao.
Karim Benzema scored a brace to help the team secure three points that took them to the summit of La Liga as Barcelona slipped to a 4-1 defeat at Celta Vigo. Real had to battle for their victory, particularly in the second half at San Mames as they came under plenty of pressure.
Speaking after the full time whistle, summer signing Kovacic admitted it was a tough game and thanked Benitez for playing him in such an important fixture.
He stated: “It was a very tough match but in the end we got what we came here for, a win and three points. We played very well in the first half, not so well in the second, and Athletic made things extremely difficult for us through the pressure their defenders put on us. I’d like to thank Rafa Benítez for the trust he placed in me; I really enjoyed playing tonight’s match. I’m very happy.”
The midfielder went on to hail Benzema for his goals and contribution to the team.
“Benzema is incredible, he helps the team out a lot with his goals, just as Cristiano Ronaldo does, and I’m delighted that he’s enjoying this hot streak in front of goal,” he commented.
