Casillas highlights Real's new defensive strength

Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas believes that his side's early qualification for the knock-out stages of the Champions League is as much to do with their defensive solidity as with their renowned attacking strength.

"It's about time we were given credit for the way we have improved in defence," Casillas told reporters after the goalless draw away to Partizan Belgrade on Tuesday.

"Defensively are getting better all the time and this result ensures we go through, although we still have two more games to secure top spot in the group."

Real began their European campaign with high-scoring victories against Olympique Marseille and Porto, beating the French side 4-2 at the Bernabeu and winning 3-1 away to the Portuguese champions.

But they have been less spectacular in their last two games, edging a 1-0 home win over Partizan two weeks ago and then holding the Serbia and Montenegro champions to a 0-0 draw.

Nevertheless it was these two disciplined defensive displays that ensured Real became the first team to qualify for the next phase of the competition.

Real lead Group F on 10 points from their four matches and know that a win in one of their remaining two matches against Marseille and Porto will guarantee them first place.

Casillas, who has been in outstanding form for Real in the Primera Liga, had another memorable game on Tuesday as he denied Partizan on a host of occasions.

"Although there were no goals there were plenty of chances for both sides," he said. "I was lucky to save several shots with my feet, but the important thing is to stop the ball going in and, overall, I think we played well."

The only disappointment for Real is that left back Roberto Carlos will be out for at least two weeks after tearing a leg muscle early in the match.

The Brazilian international should, however, be ready to return to action for the next Champions League match away to Marseille at the end of the month.