Real Madrid got their Copa del Rey title defense off to a good start on Saturday night with a 3-1 win over fourth-tier Arandina. Los Blancos scored goals through Joselu Mato, Brahim Diaz, and Rodrygo, but Arda Guler’s long-awaited start for the club was the real story.

In the first 45 minutes, Guler was the best player for Los Blancos. They couldn’t score, but if they did, it looked like it came from the Turkish youngster. Naturally, the fans had a good time, and Joselu was happy with his teammates, as he told the media after the game (via Diario AS).

“Before we began, I told him to have fun. He hadn’t been with us in a long time; it was his first time back. We’re all taking care of him because he’s so young and it’s not easy. He has a lot of good points. It was a very important moment for him. We need to take care of him like a diamond.

It had been three tries before Joselu scored, making it Real Madrid’s first penalty goal of the season that was made.

“The gaffer makes me feel like I can keep shooting them.” I was afraid it would be missed because the pitch was so soft. From now on, it will depend on who is on the field. There are a lot of experts and very good players on our team. It was my turn today.”

Real Madrid’s Joselu, Guler, and the rest of the team will be happy with how they played against Arandina tonight. They can now look forward to Wednesday’s semi-final of the Spanish Super Cup against Atletico Madrid, which will take place in Riyadh.