The Spanish coach was satisfied with the "sensational" start his side made in Saturday's win over Las Palmas, while specially praising Jese Rodriguez and Casemiro
Rafael Benitez is delighted with the displays Real Madrid have put in to go top of La Liga, but insists they must strive to do even better as the season goes on.
The Santiago Bernabeu outfit opened up a three-point lead over Barcelona at the summit following Saturday's 3-1 win over Las Palmas, while they are also on course to reach the second round of the Champions League.
Speaking after the match, Benitez was delighted with the progress his side have shown in his first season in charge, though he also warned they cannot afford to get complacent.
"We played well in the first half, with a sensational start through Isco's goal in four minutes - this advantage helps you relax a little," he told reporters.
"We took control and everything good we did in the first half, we then did in the second.
"As for position in the table, I have Madrid where I want them. We must continue to grow because the competition is growing too."
"We lacked a bit of tension at times, which is a shame because we could have ended the first half without conceding a goal."
The Santiago Bernabeu outfit opened up a three-point lead over Barcelona at the summit following Saturday's 3-1 win over Las Palmas, while they are also on course to reach the second round of the Champions League.
Speaking after the match, Benitez was delighted with the progress his side have shown in his first season in charge, though he also warned they cannot afford to get complacent.
"We played well in the first half, with a sensational start through Isco's goal in four minutes - this advantage helps you relax a little," he told reporters.
"We took control and everything good we did in the first half, we then did in the second.
"As for position in the table, I have Madrid where I want them. We must continue to grow because the competition is growing too."
"We lacked a bit of tension at times, which is a shame because we could have ended the first half without conceding a goal."
Benitez highlighted impressive performances from Jese Rodriguez and Casemiro in the wake of victory, with the Brazilian midfielder setting up Isco for the opener early on before the latter netted Madrid's third goal of the game shortly before the break.
"Jese has been working very well. He put in a good performance and I am very happy with him," he continued.
"Jese has been working very well. He put in a good performance and I am very happy with him," he continued.
"Casemiro is a player who gives us balance in midfield."
The trainer then turned his attention to the upcoming Champions League tie against Paris Saint-Germain, which he sees as a completely different test.
"We need motivation and we wish to maintain the level we reached in the first half throughout the match."
The Liga and Ligue 1 leaders are level in Group A on seven points apiece heading into Tuesday's game at the Bernabeu.
The Liga and Ligue 1 leaders are level in Group A on seven points apiece heading into Tuesday's game at the Bernabeu.
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