Real Madrid boss Rafael Benitez has played down his team's struggles during Saturday's La Liga clash at home to Granada.

Entering the match, Granada had lost on 18 of their last 21 league visits to the Bernabeu and were thumped 9-1 in the corresponding match last season.

Los Blancos found it difficult to overcome their opponents this time around, however, with Karim Benzema's second-half effort just about enough to secure all the points.

"We knew before the game that [Granada] could be difficult to face. They're a well-organised team who hit you on the counter. We didn't take our chances but still had more control and more possibilities [to score]," Benitez told reporters.

"Madrid didn't underestimate Granada. I told you and my players [beforehand] of Granada's potential.

"We had three or four clear chances. Granada played very well defensively and capitalised on our mistakes, complacency and loose balls with speed."

Real Madrid have won three and drawn one of their four league games this season.