Varane was sensational against Barcelona, says Butragueno

31/01/2013 7:56:00 PM

The promising youngster put in a man-of-the-match performance against the Blaugrana, earning praise from officials of both clubs in a hard-fought encounter

Real Madrid director Emilio Butragueno hailed Raphael Varane's sensational performance in the wake of Wednesday's 1-1 Copa del Rey draw against Barcelona at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The young defender not only netted the equaliser in the first leg of the semi-final tie, but earned plaudits for his defensive duties as well, and Butragueno was thoroughly impressed with the 19-year-old's display.

"Varane put in a sensational performance and capped his fine display with a header that keeps our chances alive," the former Madrid attacker was quoted as saying on the club's official website.

"He's still only 19-years-old and it is quite something to then play against Barcelona without making any mistakes like he did."

Meanwhile, Barcelona sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta was quick to heap praise upon the centre-back as well.

"Varane was impressive, but his performance did not surprise me. You have to be a good player in order to wear the Madrid jersey," Zubizarreta told reporters.

The centre-back has made 18 official appearances so far this term for Madrid.