Leonardo Bonucci defended Cristiano Ronaldo after his red card in Juventus' Champions League win against Valencia.

The Bianconeri were down to 10 men after a very harsh Ronaldo dismissal, but still emerged 2-0 at the Mestalla thanks to a pair of Miralem Pjanic penalties.

“We proved that we are a team, a great team, despite the obstacles that were presented during the game," the defender told Sky Sport Italia.

“We brought home a victory that is fundamental for the whole season."

Ronaldo was sent off for seemingly tugging Jeison Murillo's hair before the half hour.

“As far as I could see, it was a pretty normal clash. Murillo put his hands on Ronaldo first, he reacted, but these things can happen and we must be stronger than everyone and everything.

“Ronaldo was angry, of course. The referee saw what he saw – not very well – and we overcame the obstacles.

“We must continue being a team and personally I'll keep trying to give my best on the field and off it."