Carlo Ancelotti "proud" of battling Real Madrid

Carlo Ancelotti has revealed that he is "proud" of his Real Madrid players after Los Blancos kept chase in La Liga with a 4-0 win away to Real Sociedad.

Victories for Atletico Madrid and Barcelona this afternoon meant that Ancelotti's team had to win at the Anoeta Stadium to remain three points adrift of their Liga rivals.

Goals from Asier Illarramendi, Gareth Bale, Pepe and Alvaro Morata ensured that Real triumphed in San Sebastian, and the Italian admits that he admires his team's resolve.

"I appreciate the whole game because we played very well, very intelligently. I'm very happy," Ancelotti said to Marca after the game.

"It wasn't easy but I have a team that likes to fight. I'm proud to coach this team."

The Spanish giants travel to Germany on Tuesday for the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie with Borussia Dortmund, before resuming domestic duties by hosting Almeria at the Bernabeu next weekend.