Zidane: “There’s no need to talk too much about the game, we got three points so let’s go home”

When Karim Benzema turned in Real Madrid’s third goal in their 3-1 victory over Athletic Club, Zinedine Zidane was seen fuming on the sidelines at the chance his side had given up to the Basques moments earlier, forcing Thibaut Courtois into an excellent save. In his post-match press conference, that frustrated mood continued.

Zidane was asked why he felt Real Madrid struggled so much even though they played 77 minutes with a man advantage. He replied: “Yes, it was tough for us even with one more player. Usually it’s easier, but today we rushed a little. In the end, though, we got the three points and it’s a fourth win in a row. So, credit to the players because it was deserved. You always suffer in LaLiga and we had some difficulties today, but it’s three points and let’s go home. There’s no need to talk too much about this game. The important thing was to win. Even when you don’t play so well, you have to win.”

It was put to Zidane that his team might be getting fatigued, especially because he hasn’t been making many rotations of late. On that, he said: “You [the media] will make comments no matter what I do, but I have to make decisions and I thought this was what I should do.”

Benzema was the scorer of the two second half goals and Zidane was directly asked if he thinks player is the best French forward of all time. Zidane replied: “Yes, for me yes. He shows it and his achievements speak for themselves. So for me he’s the best, it’s clear.”