The Real Madrid manager was asked several times about Piqué’s word, who complained yesterday about the referees after the defeat against Athletic Club in Copa del Rey.
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James Rodríguez starred as Real Madrid strolled to victory over Sevilla in the Copa del Rey last-16 1st leg at the Bernabéu. “When you start the game like that and you score, it sets things up for the rest of the game”.
Meanwhile, Gareth Bale, Pepe, Mateo Kovacic and Lucas Vazquez all remain on Madrid’s injured list, with Lucas closest to regaining full fitness but not yet ready to return.
However, this game comes too soon for him, as the Welshman continues to work on his fitness.
Alvaro Morata missed a glorious early chance after Luka Modric picked out the Spain worldwide in the six-yard box – but he could only divert the ball wide with the linesman saving the striker’s blushes as he was flagged for offside. He’s scored two goals and done an important job, like everyone else. Right-back Dimitri Folquier (foot), defensive midfielder Rene Krhin (knee) and winger Isaac Cuenca (hamstring) are all out with mid to long-term injuries.
There was far fewer goalmouth action at either end after the break.
Referee Mateu Lahoz has been grabbing plenty of headlines after an eventful game between Sevilla and Real Madrid. They are now unbeaten in 38 matches with the record standing at 39.
Granada have gone eight league away games with a win (D3 L5).
The playmaker has made just four league starts this campaign and said last month that he would consider his options if he does not get more playing time.
Real will host 19th place Granada on Saturday, as they look to match the Spanish club record of 39 games unbeaten in all competitions and stay six points clear of Barcelona.
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“He is a leader on and off the pitch, he always says something to every player, he is completely focused even when he does not play”, added Zidane of the four-times Ballon d’Or victor.
