Rafa Benitez was relatively pleased with his side’s opening International Champions Cup match, despite going down to AS Roma on penalties at the death.
The former Liverpool and Napoli coach said he was particularly pleased with his side’s organisation at the back, and said they would look to build in their second match against Manchester City next Friday.
“I feel it was a good game. You see the result of the draw but both sides had good chances,” he said.
“For me it was just to keep working on things, particularly the defensive part of the game.”
Gareth Bale was unusually played in a number 10 position and not his customary role on the wing, with Benitez saying he likes the Welshman in that role and it could be something they turn to in the season.
“It’s definitely something we want to try,” he said.
“I like him in a number 10 position and we could use it next season.”
Bale had several good chances throughout the match to break the deadlock but looked quite alienated in an unfamiliar position, lacking his usual potency and energy.
Despite the sluggish affair from both sides, Benitez was relatively pleased and heaped praise on victors Roma, whom he coached against last season with Napoli.
“We knew that they had more training sessions that us and would have more pace. They have had three years with same coach now, and I think they are a solid team and will do well in the Serie A next season,” he said.
Real Madrid now have a five day break before tackling Manchester City on Friday night in the third ICC match.
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