Xabi Alonso and Gonzalo Higuain were happy that Real Madrid managed a 3-0 win over Espanyol but know they can improve.

Speaking to AS, Argentine striker Higuain said: "I am very pleased to have won the game, but we must continue working hard."

"We are all here to help, and the changes in the second half did not reduce our quality. This is the second day, and there is still a long time to go.

"As we continue to adapt, we will start playing better. We took our chances and played as a team.

"This month is very important for me to get into Argentina's squad."

Alonso was also adamant that Madrid need to continuing improving.

"We need to play together more."

"There are things to improve on. Some things went well, and others didn't.

"We played well at the key moments.

"We know that every team is dangerous."

Madrid have a 100% start to the season and are matching rivals Barcelona point for point.