Zidane praises Isco's efforts in 0-3 win

Zinedine Zidane was visibly happy about his team's 0-3 win against Atletico de Madrid. Los Blancos conquered the Vicente Calderon with a dominating performance led by Isco and Cristiano Ronaldo and without key starters Sergio Ramos, Pepe, Toni Kroos or Casemiro.

“I'm not sure if it was our best performance since I arrived. We played a great game right from the beginning against tough opposition in a stadium where it is difficult to come and win. We read the game well, went in strong and I am happy with what we did because very few teams come here and win 0-3," said Zidane after the match.

“I am satisfied because it is not easy. The first 45 minutes were phenomenal. We had a few difficulties at the start of the second half, but it is normal because of the pressure the opposition put you under. After that we plugged away keeping up the good work we were doing. We had the right intensity against a tough rival who always make life hard for us here. We didn't lose the ball much," he added.

Isco's first 45 minutes were arguably the best he's ever perform under a Real Madrid shirt since he signed for the club more than three years ago and Zidane acknowledged how brilliant the Spanish midfielder was.

"The performances of Isco and the rest of the players were great. Isco in particular didn't turn the ball over when playing in his natural position, right behind Cristiano. We defended very well together and I am happy about how we worked," explained Zidane.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored a hat-trick and many fans and analysts wondered whether he'll play more often as Real's pure striker.

“That’s how we did it today, but it’s not final. He was comfortable there and we’ll have to see how things go in other games," he said.