'We don't like to suffer' - Benzema relieved for Copa del Rey extra-time success

Karim Benzema suggests Real Madrid need to find goals earlier in games if they don't want to suffer after their 3-1 Copa del Rey comeback against Atletico Madrid.

Los Blancos failed to find the net until the last quarter of an hour of regular time at the Santiago Bernabeu, when Rodrygo canceled out Alvaro Morata's opener.

His superb solo finish forced extra time in Thursday's quarter-final tie, with further goals for Benzema and Vinicius Junior cementing the turnaround for the hosts.

The reigning Ballon d'Or winner acknowledged that his side struggled to earn their place in the last four thanks to their performance on points, but stresses that they always had the quality to respond.< /p>

"It was a very difficult and complicated game," the French international explained afterwards. "But with the players and the talent we have, we knew we could go back.

“Maybe we should score earlier because we don't like to suffer. Atletico positioned themselves well, got behind and it cost us. Rodrygo's response was a big goal."

For Vinicius, his goal ensured a bright end to a difficult day in which an effigy of the Brazilian winger was hung on a bridge near Madrid's training ground ahead of the derby.

Coach Carlo Ancelotti praised the 22-year-old in his post-match comments, adding that there was no doubt he would miss the game despite the incident.

"Vinicius always wanted to play and was very focused on the game," he said. "He played a great game. What happened elsewhere today is very unfortunate."