After beating AS Roma in the league, Ranieri couldn’t be any happier as the Old Lady rounded off a brilliant week with a solid performance in Madrid.

"Winning 2-0 at the Bernabeu is nothing to be sniffed at. I was very happy with my lads as they did what I asked, keeping the defense very high and therefore pressuring Madrid in midfield," Ranieri said after the game.

The former Chelsea boss had time to acknowledge Alessandro Del Piero's performance, after the skipper's two goals handed Juve the win and earned him a standing ovation from the Real fans.

"Del Piero took the team on to his shoulders and carried them forward. He was fantastic tonight and is really taking on the role of the captain.

"He didn't just score the two goals. He sacrificed himself for the team. The Spanish fans are fantastic and when they see a champion they appreciate it."

Meanwhile, Del Piero himself shared the same excitement with his coach, saying that Wednesday was a special night for himself and the whole team.

"We won, played a great game, I scored two goals. Really, how can you get better than that?" Del Piero boasted.

"You live off nights like this and the unique emotion. It was so great to score and this is a fantastic stadium. I must admit this is a positive time for me,"

After scoring against Real in last round's win in Turin, Del Piero's triple strikes against the Spanish champions helped Juve enforce their position as top of Group H with ten points, four ahead of second-placed Real.

"It is the ultimate feeling in football. To be applauded by the opposing fans is a sign of recognition that goes beyond rivalry. It was wonderful," concluded Alex.