Benzema delighted as Madrid survives injury blows

So prolific has Ronaldo been in recent times that he has scored 40 goals in just 36 matches in 2015 so far, the hat-trick on Wednesday night was his fourth in 6 games for Real Madrid. “I know Cristiano’s level and value”, said Benítez.

He scored his 33rd hat trick with Real Madrid on Tuesday, and third for the club in the Champions league.

“The League started a little badly with a draw but we’ve been good since then, more consistent and we’re in a good phase”.

One of Benitez’s biggest tasks when he was handed the job was to get the best out of Gareth Bale after a disappointing second season at the Bernabeu.

When asked about Ronaldo, Benitez told the Spanish press: “What surprises me is that the media beat around the bush about what is said rather than what is done on the pitch”.

Bale was criticised in a trophyless second season at the club after making a record £85m move to Real in 2013. My teammates have confidence in me.

The 26-year old has been in prime form recently and has already managed to score two goals and assist thrice in the short span of three games. “I have to thank the team, who help me a lot”, AS quotes Ronaldo as saying. One of the greatest players in the world has proved that he is still capable of producing truly golden moments as he become Real Madrid’s all-time leading goalscorer in La Liga. “But today he is the best player in the world”.

Real doubled their lead after Ronaldo’s shot hit Shakhtar captain Darijo Srna on the back in the 54th and the referee inexplicably gave a penalty and the Portuguese netted another spot kick nine minutes later after Marcio Azevedo handled.

Reminded in the mixed zone of his coach Rafa Benitez having stated recently that he needed to score more, Isco said he was confident he could improve that area of his game.

Bale’s injury would be a bigger worry for the Welsh football team, as the team have been reliant on the player throughout the qualifying stages.