Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo has claimed that his side's Champions League victory over Ajax has given them a vital confidence boost ahead of this weekend's clash with Barcelona.

The Portuguese international scored a hat-trick with Karim Benzema also on target as Jose Mourinho's side recorded an emphatic 4-1 victory away from home.

"I am very happy because we won and played well. For me, to score three goals is vital," the former Manchester United star told Canal+.

"We played a very complete game and it is very important to gain confidence for the next game [against Barcelona].

"It's very important to take the ball home but the important thing is the team because without them I would not manage to score goals."

Real take on Barcelona at the Camp Nou on Sunday with the latter team able to open up an 11-point lead at the top of La Liga with a victory.