Rafael Benitez appeared relax and calm after Real Madrid defeated Basque club Real Sociedad 3-1 at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday.
The 55-year-old Spaniard Benitez, whose job was at immediate risk, required a much-needed win as he has been the target for his side’s inconsistent run this season. Former Liverpool manager praised Cristiano Ronaldo, who scored twice to earn full three points, for his winning performance and the responsibility to put his team ahead.
“I have congratulated him [Ronaldo] and the whole team because they were united in a situation that demanded they show character and personality,” said Los Blancos boss Rafael Benitez. “That is why I am praising Cristiano again because he assumed the responsibility again and put the team on his back to get the go-ahead goal.”
The Portuguese forward Ronaldo missed the target from 12 yards as he skied his effort over the crossbar after half an hour mark. Three minutes before the break, Ronaldo found the net as he got another opportunity to score from the spot kick. Former Manchester United striker shot his effort above the crossbar for the first time in his Madrid career.
Real Sociedad winger Bruma found the equalizer with a tremendous right-footed curler just four minutes into the second half. Once again Ronaldo put the hosts ahead after 67 minutes when he headed home from a corner kick. Real Madrid substitute Lucas Vasquez added the superb third after instantly controlling and turning Bale’s pin-point cross under La Real goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli.
The 24-year-old Spanish Vazquez, who came on for Karim Benzema to play the final 15 minutes, scored his first competitive goal for Real Madrid since his return from RCD Espanyol. Overall it was a comfortable and convincing triumph for Real Madrid as they had balance in their defense as well as counter attack. IMAGE/Cesar Manso/AFP/Getty Images
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