Real Madrid No2 Aitor Karanka praised Cristiano Ronaldo after his brace in victory at Athletic Bilbao.

Ronaldo shone in the hostile atmosphere of San Mames.

"He did what he had to do and scored two goals that won us the match. He has once again shown the type of player he is," said Karanka.

"Football is for men and even more in San Mames. Cristiano had the match he had and scored twice. Athletic's players did what they needed to do. Cristiano did well in a tough atmosphere and has once again shown the type of player he is. He did what he had to do and scored two goals that won us the match."