Real Madrid playmaker Isco admitted he had been "missing a bit of confidence" lately after his double strike in Saturday evening's 6-1 La Liga win at Real Betis.
Madrid came into the game after a recent difficult run of results, but Zinedine Zidane's side were in control from the off at the Estadio Benito Villamarin -- and goals from Raphael Varane, Karim Benzema, Marcelo and Isco had them 4-0 ahead by half-time.
Although Alvaro Cejudo pulled one back for Betis after the break, Isco added his second goal and the scoring was completed late on by Blancos superstar Cristiano Ronaldo.
Spain international Isco was making just his second La Liga start of the season, and had been whistled by the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu during the 1-1 draw with Eibar before the recent international break.
The 24-year-old has admitted recently he could leave Madrid next summer to get more playing time elsewhere, and told Movistar TV after the game that he was not performing at his best currently, but said he appreciated the faith shown by his boss Zidane.
"I was missing a bit of confidence, and am still missing rhythm at the moment," Isco said. "But I am very happy with the game today. It was about me, the boss has shown confidence in me. I know I have to work hard, day to day, and it comes from there."
Isco's first goal was a close-range finish after a sweeping counter-attack including Ronaldo and Pepe, while his second was a sweet curling finish from 15 yards. Asked which of his goals he preferred, the Andalusian said it was hard to choose.
"They were different goals," Isco said. "It was a very good counter -- lots of pace for the team. The second goal was a good hit."
Madrid themselves bounced back from a run of four games in all competitions with an intense start which steamrolled Betis and ensured Zidane's side would get the three points to keep them neck and neck with leaders Atletico Madrid atop the table.
"Today were were plugged in from the first minute," Isco said. "It was a very complete first half, the team played well, both on the counter and with the ball. One of the best under Zidane for sure."