‘More intense’ Real Madrid deserved it, says Ronaldo

Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo says his side deserved to reach the Champions League final after they were “more intense” than Manchester City.

Ronaldo, who forced Joe Hart to make three of his saves, disagreed with Manuel Pellegrini’s assessment of the game that the visitors did not deserve to lose in the Bernabeu.

The former Manchester United star said: “It was a tough game, but I think we played better than City.

“We created more chances and were more intense.”

Ronaldo’s fitness had been the subject of speculation ahead of the game but he said there were no issues with his recent thigh injury.

He said: “People had doubts about me, I don’t know why – people forget that sometimes I recover fast. I am happy with no problems.”

Real will now play city rivals Atletico in the final – a repeat of the 2014 showpiece – and hope to claim their 11th European title.

Gareth Bale, whose shot was deflected past Hart for the only goal, is relishing the chance to play another final.

The former Tottenham player said: “The reason I came here was to win Champions Leagues.

“I have got one already and now I have a chance to win another one. Obviously it is great to be in the final again but there is another game to go against a very stubborn Atletico Madrid team.

“No matter who we play in the final we know it is going to be very difficult. They are there because they are a good team.”