Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane was beaming with happiness in his post match press conference Sunday night after his team picked up the three points against Malaga. Here is what the gaffer had to say.
All quotes come via the Real Madrid official website.
Opening Statement
"“We did very well and it’s not easy to play against a team that don’t deserve to be where they are in the table. We were motivated, went about the task in a serious manner, played very well and got a good result. It was important to rotate players and play some who don’t usually get so much game time.”“I try to do my best and make rotations, but not everyone can rest. We’ve got one game before the Champions League semi-final and we’ll see how we’re going to play. We’re on good form and we’re all fit and healthy. Having everyone available is very important.”"
Comments on Isco’s performance
“I’m pleased with his performance and his goal. It’s his home and he had a great game. I’m thrilled for him and for the team. This is where he grew up and he deserved that kind of reception. He’s been an important player for Málaga and today he’s crucial for Real Madrid.”
Comments on Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale
“Karim is never going to throw in the towel. Of course he’d love to score and he’s had opportunities to do so. All he was lacking was the goal, he’ll keep going. It’s been a tough year for him in this regard. Bale was a technical decision just like the rest of the guys who didn’t travel.”
My thoughts
In his brief post-match presser, Zizou was clearly impressed with his team’s all-around play in the match. While Malaga may be on their way down to the lower league after this season, the side from the south of Spain gave Los Blancos everything they could handle from start to finish.
Despite going down 2-0 just after the hour mark, the home side kept pushing and managed to find a goal to make the scoreline more respectable.
I was incredibly impressed with Isco’s performance much like the manager. His movement on and off the ball was phenomenal today and after making those comments about his role on the team at the end of March, the Spaniard has been superb.
It was only fitting the ‘bandy legged-bandit’ score his first free-kick goal and an assist against his former club in their stadium.
It was very nice to see Dani Ceballos and Borja Mayoral return to the field for a portion of this match with both performing well despite the match having already been decided when they entered.
Next: Malaga 1 – 2 Real Madrid: Quick match recap
Ceballos was moving well with the ball and created a chance on his first couple of touches in the match. Borja, on the other hand, did his best to get into the right position in the box, but didn’t make a huge impact.
While the scoreline might say otherwise, Real Madrid was clinical in dispatching lowly Malaga.