Real Madrid managed a rare win over cross-city rivals Atletico on Wednesday night to book their place in the Champions League semi-finals and it was all down to Carlo Ancelotti’s midfield selection, according to goalkeeper Iker Casillas.

Real had played Atletico seven times previously this season in a host of competitions but had not beaten them until the crucial quarter-final second leg at the Santiago Bernabeu where a rare goal from on-loan Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez was enough to see them through to the last four.

The draw for the Champions League semi-finals takes place on Friday and Real are 4.00 to win the trophy for the second year running after claiming ‘La Decima’ last term.

Casillas says coach Ancelotti’s decision to put Sergio Ramos in a central midfield role was key to their success against Atleti.

The Spain international defender was a dominant figure constantly in the thick of the action and helped Real in midfield which had been an area they had previously struggled to contain Atletico.

However, it was a surprise as Ancelotti had used the same tactic in Real’s La Liga defeat at Barcelona last month and was widely criticised for the experiment.

“That’s what the coach believed he should do and he (Ramos) played a fundamental role and we all benefited from his commitment,” Casillas told reporters.

“Sometimes you also have to take on board your opponents’ way of playing and today we were really firm and solid in the midfield,” added the 33-year-old Spain goalkeeper.