Ancelotti: Casillas was decisive

Carlo Ancelotti praised Iker Casillas for his performance and attitude in being ‘decisive’ for Real Madrid drawing at Juventus.

Los Blancos picked up a point in Tuesday evening’s Group B clash that has effectively sealed progression to the Last 16 of the Champions League.

Goals from Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale contributed at the one end, whilst Casillas also provided some notable saves at the other.

“He had a very good game, he was decisive, with two great saves in the first half,” conceded Ancelotti to reporters post-match.

“For him it is not easy to not play every game, but he is ready to do it and that means that he is very professional.

“I'm leaving here feeling satisfied with my team's second-half performance. The reaction was very good on our part.

“In the first half our position defensively was too deep, we had problems with Pogba and Marchisio.

“After the break we were much better in terms of courage and aggression. We changed later in the game, with things improving after the restart. I’m happy for that period, we played with intensity.”

Ancelotti surprised in his team selection by choosing Sergio Ramos at right-back.

“Juve sent many balls to the far post and Ramos is good in the air. He played a great game. We wanted to limit their ability to cross and with the help of Sergio Ramos we were more comfortable.

“Ramos is a great player who can play in a variety of positions. Playing him there was a temporary move as I know he prefers to play in the centre. He played out wide without problems tonight, however.

“I also think that Benzema worked very hard against Andrea Pirlo.”

Tags Ancelotti Casillas Juventus Ramos
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