Jose Mourinho has always been known for his strange choices and controversial decisions. One would think that the coach would want to boast to the press about eliminating Barcelona in the second leg of the Copa del Rey Semifinal, but the coach decided to send his injured captain Iker Casillas to the press conference.
Casillas complimented his teammates' play, particularly that of Cristiano Ronaldo who scored two goals in the victory. "This gives us more peace for the rest of the season. Barcelona did not look as good as Madrid," said Casillas. "The team were brilliant defensively. Cristiano Ronaldo has also been crucial."
Casillas added, "Cristiano Ronaldo is proving [his] importance in the Real Madrid. He's our most important player. He's already demonstrated his level in other Clasicos, too... He will have to deal with [the contract] issue with the club, but for us it would be a joy [if he would stay]."
Ronaldo has stated that he will remain with the club until his contract expires in 2015, but rumors state that the team may sell him this summer; Manchester United is rumored to have prepared a deal for the superstar.
Madrid came into this match with a 1-1 aggregate score. Ronaldo scored off a penalty shot and added the second off a rebound created by Angel Di Maria. Raphael Varane added the third off a header before Jordi Alba added a consolation goal for Madrid. Check out highlights for the game HERE.
With the victory, Madrid gets a prime opportunity to win the Copa del Rey despite losing the Spanish league title.
Casillas did note that he was not ready to concede the title despite being 16 points behind first place Barcelona.
"Real Madrid won't give up in the league", he said. "We will fight until the end."
Barcelona faces Barcelona on Saturday at the Bernabeau and then heads to the Old Trafford to play Manchester United in the second leg of the Champions League Round of 16.
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