Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted relief after victory over Alcoyano.
Real are into the Copa del Rey round of 16 after last night’s 3-1 win.
Ancelotti said: “I think we saw a different game to what we’re used to playing. We prepared for a fixture full of aerial duels, lots of set-pieces and long balls. We scored, fought hard and first and foremost, we delivered the performance we needed to qualify.
“They levelled through a moment of individual brilliance. Afterwards, we kept our heads and continued to play our game. This was just the way we needed to play, it was how we prepared for it and we won. Our holidays were over following the Getafe game. Quality doesn’t mean so much in these kinds of games because this type of pitch doesn’t allow for it.”
On Andriy Lunin’s performance, the coach continued: “He put in a very decent, assured performance between the sticks, even if he did make the odd mistake with the ball at his feet. But I like a goalkeeper who does his job between the sticks. You can always adjust how he uses the ball and he’ll improve in that regard as he gets more game time. Lunin has got the Copa del Rey and LaLiga is Courtois’ territory.”
Meanwhile, Ancelotti admits he wanted more from Eden Hazard.
“He needs to show greater confidence in one-on-one situations because he’s got the quality to beat his man. He’ll gradually get back to his best and his fitness has improved from where it was a few months ago. Let’s hope that he’s soon back and performing to his best.
“Our flair players struggled more than the rest of them in this type of game. He kept going and even operated in the number-9 role. Isco also played there when he came on. I’m really happy for him. The whole team performed well and battled hard.”
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