Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane was left delighted with their 2-0 defeat of Granada.

Los Blancos secured the win with goals from Casemiro and Karim Benzema to go joint top of LaLiga Santander alongside Atletico Madrid.

"It was such a tricky game," Zidane said at full time. "It was a f***ing tough game and that's how it was for us. They came to press the ball.

"The first half was difficult and the second was much better. I'm really happy for [my players] because these games aren't easy. We deserved the win with the second half display."

After an upturn in results in recent weeks, Zidane also wanted to mention the players' attitude.

"The players have kept working and preparing for all the games," he added. "It's what they have to do. We're going to lose games. It's inevitable every now and then. I'm happy for the players because they've put up with the criticism."

Casemiro's opening goal in the 57th was key as Real Madrid and, after goals from Toni Kroos and Luka Modric in recent games, he joins the list of midfielders getting on the scoresheet.

"We know that [Casemiro] gets forward," Zidane said. "Defensively, we know what he can do. He brings us a lot but attacking-wise too.

"It was a great goal. We know he's good with his head, like Sergio [Ramos] and Rafa [Varane].

"The success is everyone's. The three midfielders do a great job, but the credit goes to the team. But it's true that they're getting more goals."