Mourinho encourages his players ahead of Lyon game
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Real Madrid cruised to an easy 2-0 win at home to Levante on Saturday night and Sunday saw coach Jose Mourinho praise his players for a "professional" display.
First half goals from Karim Benzema and Ricardo Carvalho gave Madrid the points and although it was not as spectacular a result as the 8.0 thrashing handed to Levante in the Copa del Rey earlier this season, Madrid never looked in danger.
The win was perfect preparation for Tuesday's Champions League match away to Olympic Lyon and Mourinho was pleased with the way his players had focused on the Saturday's match, rather than be distracted by their European obligations.
"I liked that my team played a serious match. These games ahead of Champions League matches can be complicated because players may focus more on the European competition," said Mourinho in declarations published on the club website.
"Levante were organized in defense, but we scored early and had things under control. Winning and resting players is what mattered," he said.
One player who was on the pitch for the entire match was Cristiano Ronaldo and the Madrid coach explained why he didn' t rest his star.
"Cristiano always likes to play. He is fine from a physical standpoint and does not feel tired, so why should I take him out?" replied Mourinho.
Madrid were beaten by Lyon in the Champions League last season and have never knocked the French side out of the competition. Mourinho says that should Madrid fail again this time, it won't be for lack of preparation.
"Ever since we drew Lyon, we have been studying and learning about them. Real Madrid have two barriers to break down against Lyon. It's been years since Madrid made it through to the Last 16 and it's because they have never beaten Lyon. We have to study all the possibilities and be prepared for anything and everything," he said.
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