Solari Hails Real Madrid's Performance After Derby Win Over Atletico
Santiago Solari praised his side for delivering a complete display after Real Madrid beat local rival Atletico Madrid at the Wanda Metropolitano on Saturday.
Goals from Casemiro, Sergio Ramos and Gareth Bale fired Los Blancos to victory in the Madrid derby, while Atletico Madrid replied in vain through an Antoine Griezmann strike, as the win lifted the European champion above its local rival and into second in the league table.
Solari admitted after the game that he was very pleased with his side's performance. As quoted by the club's official website, the Madrid head coach said: "It was a team win and there's no other way to get something here against a solid and competitive side, particularly when they're playing at home.
"We were strong in every facet of the game. It's probably our best performance since December.
"It was a very complete display and that's the only way we were going to take anything here against a team who are better every year. They're a great side with a fantastic coach, we head home very happy.
"We were good at the back, up top, we pressed brilliantly and were solid on set-pieces, both offensively and defensively.
"We're all part of the team and the key thing is the players, who are the ones who train, show the physical commitment and heart in every game. The players deserve 95% of the credit for the win.
"The remaining bit is down to the rest of us - the medical team, directors, fans... Real Madrid always fight to the end and we have to keep going. We have to keep our feet on the ground and continue working hard."
Madrid resumes its effort to defend its European crown as it returns to Champions League action in the first leg of its Round of 16 tie against Ajax on Wednesday, before hosting Girona next Sunday.
