Ronaldo: Big win vital for El Clasico

By ESPNSTAR.com staff

Ronaldo was the hero for his side with a well-taken hat-trick to secure an easy win for the Spanish champions to go top of Group D with two wins out of two games played.

The dominant nature of Real Madrid's win pleased Ronaldo, who credited his team mates for the victory.

Speaking to Canal+, he said: "I am very happy because we won and played well. For me, to score three goals is vital.

"It's very important to take the ball home but the important thing is the team because without them I would not manage to score goals."

Real Madrid stuttered to their domestic campaign with two losses and a draw and are trailing Barcelona, who have won all six games so far, by eight points.

Ronaldo believes that the win has provided his side with the necessary confidence to put the slow start behind them and face Barcelona in the crucial tie this Saturday.

"We played a very complete game and it is very important to gain confidence for the next game [vs Barcelona]." the Portuguese added.

"I am confident that we will get a good result in a difficult place, the Camp Nou. They have a very good team and there will not be much difference."

Kaka, who was handed a rare start, was another star performer for Los Blancos against Ajax despite not getting onto the scoresheet. The Brazilian's impressive playmaking and ability to find space will certainly pose selection headaches for manager Jose Mourinho.

He admitted that his inclusion was a surprise but is determined to be available when called upon - even for this weekend's El Clasico.

"It was a little surprise for me, but it was a personal conquest through hard work. I'm available for coach, whatever he needs," he said.

"Barcelona is one of our direct competitors, and that means it is a very important match."

Real Madrid will face Barcelona at Camp Nou on Sunday evening. If Barcelona win, they will command an 11-point lead over current title holders Real Madrid.