Real Madrid

Bernd Schuster was satisfied with his men's work and with the final result in the clash with Linz Lask.

How would you summarise the match?
I first want to congratulate Lask for their first 100 years and I hope they continue for another 100. The party was beautiful. The match was nice after the long interval of the Euro and the holidays. It was important for us to get back into the game and, especially, to finish the match without any injured players. I thank Lask for how cleanly they've played because sometimes teams get a little too motivated for these games.

How do you regard Austrian football?
Austria was a great host of the Euro. The championship came a little too soon for this country's football, which still has to grow a little. The Euro nevertheless motivates Austrian teams and I expect them to improve.

Do you draw any conclusions from games like these?
We wanted to see the team play as intensely as it's been training so far. I think our pace was good except for the first 15 minutes of the match.

What did you think of Robben's performance?
He is anxious to prove just how good he is, but we know. He's been working as hard as everybody should from day one. He is fresh and fast, adding a special spark to our game. He seems to be slightly ahead of the rest in these games.

What did you think of Lask?
I didn't expect their coach to leave two of their best players out, but I must say I've taken this game very seriously. I watched their previous match because a team like Real Madrid should take a 100 year-old club like Lask very seriously. I knew they usually play with a tight and narrow midfield and only one striker.

Did you know the team before you started preparing for the match?
Yes. It's important for us that everything turned out alright, with the party and the fans cheering on all the time. It's been very similar to a normal match.

Who is Real Madrid planning to sign?
Everybody knows we want to sign Ronaldo, but the process doesn't seem to come to an end. The other signings we make depend on that one.

How is Cannavaro coming along?
Very well. He is a pro and we expect him to be able to play again at the end of August.

Did any Lask players surpise you?
I must say I only look at what my team does, so it is rather strange for me to notice anything exceptional from other sides.