Solari: "We showed character but it wasn't a game to remember"
The Real Madrid coach was happy with the result: “It's been a while since we saw a game as evenly-fought as this - it's great for the viewing public”.
Real Madrid coach Santiago Solari appeared happy to see his team take all three points after a difficult battle with Huesca this afternoon: “It's been a while since we saw a game as evenly-fought as this - it's great for the viewing public,” the Argentinean told the press after the game.
A difficult afternoon: “Some games just turn out this way and they require character - my players show that today. We scored when we needed to and after that, we knew how to defend our lead. It was a very windy day - and a physical match which wasn't very attractive to watch. In these kinds of games, it's difficult to play football. The team showed great character. We're not used to playing these kinds of games but we have to compete just the same as we always do. On another day, we'll put in the kind of performance we puty in during the first half against Valencia. That's football”.
Winter weather
Blustery day: “The wind affected both teams, and made for an ugly game. The players will tell you that the wind made it a less precise game in terms of passing. The wind was an influence - as was Huesca's pressing, which left gaps at the back which we were able to take advantage of with Bale and Benzema on the break. It wasn't a game to remember, that's for sure but if you want to compete for the league, these are the games you need to win”.
Bale's goal: “What matters is getting all three points. I would have been just as pleased had anyone else scored. He worked hard, as did the rest of the team, and those who came on in the seconf half”.
Zero goals conceded
Clean sheet in LaLiga for the first time since March: “It's important not to concede when you can't score four or five goals”.
Huesca: “They put in a very brave game, pressing us and taking risks. They didn't have any clear chances, but they put pressure on us from corners and when the crowd got behind them right at the end”.
Close at the top of the table: “I really league campaigns when they're equal like this. It's more interesting for the public. It's been a while since we've seen a campaign as equal as this”.