Rafael Benitez "optimistic" despite stalemate

Rafael Benitez has said that he remains "optimistic" over his Real Madrid stint despite kicking it off with a 0-0 draw away to newly-promoted Sporting Gijon on Sunday.

Karim Benzema was missing through injury but Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale both started as Los Blancos - who had 27 shots - failed to begin their Primera Liga campaign with a victory.

"In the first half we gave Sporting options, but in the second we could have won the game. We lacked confidence," Benitez, who replaced Carlo Ancelotti in the summer, told reporters.

"We just missed that last pass when we got in front of the keeper. We had many shots on goal, but without precision.

"The team has shown character and personality in the second half. That is why I am optimistic. This is the beginning. Now we will continue to adjust things and improve physically."

Barcelona, who pipped their Clasico rivals to the title by two points last season, opened the defence of their crown with a 1-0 win at Athletic Bilbao earlier in the day.