Del Bosque delight after Athletic stroll

Vicente del Bosque was evidently delighted with Real Madrid's second win of the season after they had beaten Athletic Bilbao 2-0, with eight first-team players missing: "These are three very important points for us," he said.

The Real coach was forced to blood some youngsters with players like Zinedine Zidane, Luis Figo, Roberto Carlos and Steve McManaman all missing.

"The players that came in were fantastic," continued Del Bosque. "But you must remember that they were supported by the excellent veterans that we have here."

"Athletic are a good side and they tried to control the game in the centre of the field. But we managed to stop them gaining any depth to their game."

"During the first half we were well organised, but a little tight. After the interval we lifted the pace and the first goal allowed us to play with more fluidity."

Madrid's second goalscorer, Santiago Solari, was proud of the three debutants in the side and he was pleased that they were able to demonstrate the strength in depth the Real squad has.

"This victory will give everyone great confidence," said Solari. "The most important thing though, is that we managed it with a lot of players who have come through the youth ranks here."

"Without a doubt we have demonstrated that we can attack with eleven, and defend with eleven."