Ancelotti: I didn't expect it to be so easy against Galatasaray

The Italian thought that the Turks would have made life more difficult for Real Madrid in the wake of Sergio Ramos's first-half dismissal for a professional foul

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Carlo Ancelotti was surprised at the ease with which his 10-man Real Madrid side defeated Galatasaray 4-1 in the Champions League on Wednesday.

Sergio Ramos was sent off early in the game but goals from Gareth Bale, Alvaro Arbeloa, Angel Di Maria and Isco ensured that Umut Bulut's equaliser just before half-time was insignificant.

Ancelotti was sightly shocked at how Los Blancos swept aside Roberto Mancini's men and argued that Juventus, who defeated Copenhagen 3-1 to move two points clear of Gala in second, now have the edge in the battle to follow Madrid through to the last 16.

"After being left 10 players on the pitch, I didn't expect a game of that easiness," the Italian told Spor Smart.

"We made some changes in our system. My team reacted well in the second half and that's how we won it.

"Juve are one step ahead of Galatasaray, because a draw will be enough for them, but Galatasaray have very passionate supporters. They can win this game. It will be a perfect match."

Cristiano Ronaldo missed the game at the Santiago Bernabeu through injury but Ancelotti still took time out to back the Portugal international's bid for this year's Ballon d'Or.

"Yes, Ronaldo is the best player in the world," the former AC Milan boss stated. "Statistics show that he is the best in the world by far. His team-mates continue to help him and he's doing his best [to recover]."

Isco, who has featured intermittently under Ancelotti since arriving from Malaga in the summer, admits that it has not been enjoyable being relegated to the bench but says that he is working hard to make it into the starting line-up on a regular basis.

"It is not nice not to play but the coach is the one who picks the team," he told reporters after netting a fine goal against Gala. "I always work to give my 100 per cent on the field.

"I feel better close to the penalty area but the coach can put me where he wants. I am still working with as much hope as ever."