Karim Benzema

Despite the 3-1 score line, Real Madrid were not at the same level as over the past week against Athletic, who could have snatched a point but for Courtois.

Zidane capped a happy week as his team sealed a comfortable victory over Atlético, one which allowed them to reduce the distance at the top of the table, writes Alfredo Relaño.

After a roller-coaster group stage Karim Benzema guided Real Madrid into the last 16 with LaLiga's other representatives Barcelona, Atlético and Sevilla.

Scoring goals breeds confidence and so when the goals dry up, the team is weakened. That was the root of Real Madrid's problems against Shakhtar, writes Alfredo Relaño.

Eden Hazard’s signing seemed like a smart move by Real Madrid at the time, and maybe it could still work out well, writes Alfredo Relaño.