Barcelona may have taken the points, but over time, this Clásico will be remembered for Benzema's backheel to Cristiano Ronaldo.

Benzema spoke to MARCA barely 24 hours after the defeat. "It's a shame. Above all else, we wanted to win", he said ahead of international training with France in Clairefontaine.

The Frenchman commented on his backheel: "When you're brimming with self-confidence you try that sort of thing. It's part of my game and it set up Cristiano for his goal. I had my back to the ball and it was my best option. I'm going to keep trying that type of move because I feel comfortable doing them".

Striker is happy to turn provider: "A backheel like that is like scoring a goal, especially during a Clásico. You enjoy it just as much because it's just as important to complete a good pass for someone to score".

Benzema highlighted Modric's return: "We created chances and we played well. It was great to have Modric back. He always plays on the attack and that's why he's so important to us. We've missed him".

They have lost some ground in the title race, but the team have regained their self-confidence: "We have to keep believing. Barça have some tough fixtures. They have to play Sevilla away and then Valencia at home. It's up to us to win all our remaining fixtures and hope that Barcelona slip up somewhere. Anything can happen and we aren't throwing in the towel. We're still focused on La Liga and the Champions League".

He also commented on the upcoming game against Atlético: "It's going to be tough, it always is, but Real Madrid always raise their game for the Champions League. We're thrilled to be playing in Europe".