Real Madrid settles the match in the first half against Real Sociedad and then relaxes

The first half hour the match was full of action, good passing and understanding between the Madrid players and GOALS.

It again rained goals at the Santiago Bernabeu - 5-1.

And it could have been 6 had Morata not missed an easy goal off a Cristiano Ronaldo pass in front of the Sociedad goal.

For a change, Karim Benzema played well in the first 30 minutes and should be given credit for his assist in Cristiano's first goal. What I liked was Benzema did not pass the ball to Arbeloa who was going down the left ( the easier option ) but decided to cross the ball to Cristiano who was running at the far post.  

Cristiano returned the favour to Benzema by pulling the ball back and crossing the ball to Benzema, who to his credit ( or luck ) struck the ball along the ground, into the far right hand corner beating the outstretched Real Sociedad goalkeeper.

I would like to question the penalty given against Real Sociedad. I thought it was clearly unintentional as the defender challenged Ronaldo in the area and in the process, the ball went through the falling defender's legs and hit his hand. There was no question in my mind,  of intention whatsoever in the play.

Cristiano's free kick conversion was a treat to watch - specially as it went close overhead to where Khedira was standing in the defensive wall. It was or must have been practiced a lot but I wish there was more consistency in Ronaldo's free kick conversions.

Cristiano scored another hat trick this season.

Khedira scored as well from a Gareth Bale pass. It was well taken at almost point blank range giving the Real Sociedad goalkeeper absolutely no chance.

The Real Sociedad goal came in the second half when Griezmann beat Diego Lopez with a chip over his head. It needed a cool head to finish the job and Griezmann sure provided that.

I felt that Griezmann stood out for Real Sociedad and posed a continuous threat to Madrid. He has speed and ability and should be less selfish if he wants to develop into a top flight striker.

The man I felt a bit sorry was Gareth Bale. With everyone coming to the party and scoring, he missed out today.

Never mind Gareth, your time will come.

Real Madrid took home the 3 points.   

Pointers for Ancelotti. Arbeloa played well at the left back position. Alonso did not make much of an impression. He did take a couple of free kicks. Luca Modric again proved to be the work horse of the team. Pepe was dreadful. He should take the sole responsibility for the goal.

I am not sure that Ancelotti has found the best team as yet.

There is therefore room for improvement.

We need to improve so that we do better playing against the top teams at home and abroad.

 

 

 

 

 

Real Madrid should have won in Turin

After a long time, we saw Real Madrid play like Champions.

However to do so, they had to go down a goal from a penalty - which should never have been given - as there was absolutely no contact and ofcourse at half time, Ancelotti must have given the players a real earful.

In the second half, an error of Vidal gave the ball to Benzema, who for a change, passed the ball through nicely to Ronaldo and Cristiano only had Buffon to beat which he did with a lot of class.

Madrid was level with Juventus 1-1.

Very shortly afterwards Gareth Bale received the ball at the top of the box and after side stepping a couple of Juve defenders, beat a diving Buffon. In slow motion, you could see the ball turning away from the diving hands of Buffon. It was nice to see. 

This was Gareth Bale's first goal for Madrid in the Champions League. I am sure many many more will follow.

During this period of play, Madrid was dominating the play, they kept possession and if they lost the ball, they kept at the Juventus player - not giving an inch or a second to settle on the ball. Madrid's persistence was paying off and at times, we could see nine Madridistas in the Juventus half.

Then against the play, a floating ball found Fernando Llorente poking his head forward, beating Varane and the outstretched hands of Iker Casillas.

Juventus had equalized 2-2.

It was a good match to watch for the spectators.

For Real Madrid it meant going through to the next phase.

I am afraid Juventus will not make it through.

Today after a long time, I felt the midfield and the back four stuck to their task well - in the second half. Hope they have solved their defending problems once and for all.

All Madrid fans should thank Iker for all the saves that he made during the match.

 

Real Madrid made to suffer at Vallecas as they hang onto 3 points

Suffering and humiliation.

That's what we, the Real Madrid fans, had to go through today to see Real Madrid win.

As I have said time and time again, the Real Madrid midfield and the back four DO NOT inspire any confidence. They are slow and lethargic and roam the pitch for 90 minutes without clearly identifying who they are supposed to mark.

Forget winning any silverware this year Sr. Florentino Perez.

What I am concerned about is just about any team in the Liga has a chance to beat Real Madrid this season.

Luckily in football it is the team that scores most goals wins.

For if it had been for possession, skill, pace, attacking football, Rayo would have won.

Ronaldo's goal was quite nice but I wonder whether he could have done that against a better side. But hey a goal is a goal. 

Gareth Bale again provided some nice crosses from the right - one was headed in by Benzema and another pass to Ronaldo was neatly put away.

After scoring that goal, it seemed as if Benzema went off to sleep.

To all Real Madrid fans I have one question. Where was Alonso? Did he lead the midfield?  Did he organize the plays?  Did he do anything? Simply put - did he play?

Why can't Ancelotti see that he is including players who are past their prime.

Why not give Isco, Morata, Jese and Varane a go. They add a dimension which is lacking.

Finally what is the use of having Gareth Bale in the team when he rarely gets the ball. He has to always come back to collect the ball.

Remember we were playing Rayo Vallecano today.

Not Barcelona or Atletico Madrid.

Not Bayern Munich or Borussia Dortmund.

God help us.

But we won 3-2.

 

 

 

 

Gareth Bale - did you intentionally dive in the Sevilla box?

A simple question for Gareth Bale:-

Did you intentionally dive in the Sevilla box last night?

I and the majority of the Real Madrid supporters will be very upset if this were true.

We don't believe in playing the "beautiful" game in this unfair manner with a view to cheat.

Please do not revert back to this awful awful way of thinking and playing the game.

 

  

It rained goals at Santiago Bernabeu as Real Madrid thump Sevilla 7-3

Wow what a match!! I could not take my eyes off for a second in case I missed a goal.

It was raining goals!!

It was an open, free flowing footballing extravaganza.

Real Madrid's forward line joined the party and all three strikers scored heavily.

The beauty of the match was that all the field goals - 8 in total ( plus 2 penalties ) were of a very high quality.

Cristiano Ronaldo got his hat trick, Gareth Bale scored two - his first of many goals I am sure that will be scored at the Bernabeu and our usual "villain" turned HERO today - Karim Benzema - chipping in with two well taken goals.

The two Sevilla field goals were of a very high class. The first Sevilla field goal started off from the half way line and the Sevilla player brought the ball all the way down to the Madrid end line before crossing it to his teammate who latched onto it and cracked the ball into the back of the net. The second Sevilla field goal was a beautiful curling ball which went around and beat Diego Lopez all ends up.     

The match was beautiful in the true sense of the word. Sevilla kept coming back and launching counter attacks. They were thwarted by Diego Lopez on a few occasions by brilliant saves. The game ebbed and flowed. It was a game which saw the ball going from end to end. It was a match which was very thrilling to watch.

I suggest that anyone who likes "the beautiful game" take time to see the game. Its worth it.

The only criticism that I have is that the Real Madrid midfield and defence were woefully pathetic. The midfield was almost nonexistent and the defence were slow and could not keep pace with the Sevellian attacks. At one time it seemed that every Sevilla counter would bring about a goal unless Diego Lopez pulls off another brilliant save.

It seems that the Madrid midfield and the back four either can't pick out the plays or they are so slow and hopefully out of place that they can't get back fast enough. In the meanwhile, Sevilla would have scored or have their efforts blocked by Diego Lopez.

We welcomed back Xavi Alonso - added experience to the midfield.

The result brought 3 points. Good.

Nice way to come back after the Clasico fiasco. Good.

But Madrid is nowhere near ready or prepared to compete at the highest level. Worrisome.

 

 

 

 

 

Was Real Madrid robbed points at Nou Camp

After watching the match today, I would like to state that:-

Barcelona took four strikes at goal and scored twice. For your information, the other two were Neymar's volley which Diego Lopez saved and the other was the save off Dani Alves late in the second half.

On the other hand, Madrid claimed two penalties - the first a handball and the second the clear SHOVING of Cristiano Ronaldo off the ball in the penalty area. Atleast the SHOVE / PUSH should have been given.

Further Real Madrid did not have the luck of Champions. How many times they forced Valdes to pull off amazing saves - THREE.

And what about Karim Benzema's shot which rattled the cross bar?

The Footballing Gods were definitely not doing any favours to Madrid today.

But mortals witnessed that Real Madrid put up a great fight specially in the second half. They showed intensity and courage to come back at Barcelona.

Real Madrid could have won if they had taken their chances.

But Barcelona came away with the 3 points because they had luck going for them.

That's all that I am prepared to say.

In conclusion I will admire Alexis Sanchez's goal. The chip over Diego Lopez was brilliant, if not genius.

 

   

Manchester United face another defeat

What is wrong with Manchester United?

Their defence is so weak that with a little bit of luck, Stoke could have gone into the break with a 4-1 lead, instead of 2-1.

Further the attack is not very lethal. Man U have the possession but they falter at the final moments.

Personally I feel it is a pathetic display of football from Manchester United.

I would NOT pay money to see Manchester United play this type of rubbish.

And believe it or not the match is being played at Old Trafford!!!

 

 

EL CLASSICO

My Dear Real Madrid Fans

On Saturday, 26th, October we have a great opportunity to beat Barcelona at Camp Nou and bring back to Santiago Bernabeu THREE valuable points.

Barcelona is NOT the team of Pep Guardiola and their attack is NOT as potent as it used to be.

Xavi and Iniesta do not have the penetrating insight that they used to.

And the great Messi needs time to fully recover.

Neymar is still settling in.

Valdes is on his way out

Pujol has just come out of a injury.

With all this going on, Real Madrid has a great opportunity of winning and bringing the 3 valuable points to Madrid.

You Madrid Fans stand together and have positive thoughts.

We can do this.

We need your positive energy to carry the TEAM forward.  

Real Madrid gets the job done and should move on in the Champions League

A great game and Real Madrid pulled off a good victory beating the reigning Italian Champions - Juventus 2-1 at home at the Santiago Bernabeu.

This victory virtually assures Madrid to go through to the quarter finals stage of the Champions League heading their Group.

The match started in a frenzy and in the 4th minute, Di Maria dribbled the ball from the right and came to the top Juve's area and passed the ball inside through to Ronaldo. Cristiano very skillfully, side stepped the charging Buffon ( Juventus's goalkeeper ) and put the ball into the back of the net - even though the angle was very acute. The goal was well constructed and elegantly finished.

The score was 1-0.

The goal galvanised the Italians. Juve started dominating possession of the ball and the midfield. Juventus had so much of the possession that sometimes, there were atleast two or three Italians around the ball with Real Madrid players nowhere to be seen.

It has to be said that Pirlo, Vidal and Martin Caceres were in total command of the game. They did not allow Real Madrid to build up any move and on the contrary, were quick to put their forwards on the counter attack.

With so much pressure being built up, it was inevitable that during this period of play was when Juventus scored. A floating ball found a Juve forward who crossed the ball to the far post. The ball beat the Madrid defenders in the air and the Juve player headed the ball towards the Madrid goal. Casillas had to make a diving save but in doing so, the ball fell in front of the goal line and Llorente tapped the ball into the back of the net - giving Casillas no chance to make a save.

It was a defensive lapse - first Marcelo was out place and could not prevent the ball from being crossed and secondly Arbeloa was not guarding the far post. These fundamental defensive problems have been a constant problem for Madrid this season so far.

The scores were level 1-1.

The match was fast paced and it was end to end football. Very exciting to watch. Around the 35th minute a high ball into the Juventus area saw Chiellini grappling Sergio Ramos around the neck and bringing him down in the penalty area. The linesman very bravely and correctly signaled the penalty to Madrid. Cristiano converted beating Buffon going the correct way - but the kick went into the top left hand corner of the net. Buffon had no chance.

In the process, Chiellini received a yellow card for bringing Sergio Ramos down in a wrestling hold.

The score at half time was 2-1 in Madrid's favour.

The second half started with Madrid in the driving seat. Shortly after the start, Ronaldo picked up a through ball and was going towards the goal when Chiellini elbowed him in the mouth and sent him falling to the ground. This brought out the red card and Chiellini was sent off.

With the sending off, the stuffing was knocked out of Juventus. With 10 men Juve could not compete - their players were exhausted. When Pirlo was substituted, Madrid roamed the pitch freely but could not score even though they had two great goal scoring chances.

The first chance came when Di Maria chipped the ball to Arbeloa who had come into the box behind the Juve defence and made a great pass across Buffon's goal line. However Benzema kicked the ball over the crossbar - missing an open goal - a "sitter" as some would say. The Madrid supporters did not like Benzema missing such an easy chance and voiced their feelings.

The second chance came when Khedira found himself inside the Juve area with only Buffon to beat. He tried chipping the ball over Buffon's head but the experienced Buffon was not to be fooled.

Benzema was substituted by Gareth Bale - who was only given about 20 minutes by Ancelotti. He made a few runs but nothing special.

Morata and Isco were brought in for Di Maria and Iyarramendi. With what little time they had, they played well.

Juventus continued to hold through the valiant efforts of Vidal and Martin Caceres. With only 10 men, they created two clear chances of goal but then with fatigue and being overwhelmed by the Madrid numerical superiority, they could not convert.

The match ended 2-1.

Two incidents stood out during the match which are worth noting. It tells the story of what Real Madrid stands for. The first came when Fernando Llorente was being substituted. You will remember Llorente used to play for Atletico Bilbao and this was his first match in Spain after his move abroad. The Madrid fans gave him a standing ovation for the hard work he put in and the goal that he scored. The second standing ovation was reserved for Pirlo. When Pirlo was walking off the field after being substituted, the Madrid fans clapped and acknowledged what a great footballer he is and has been all these years. Yes Madrid fans acknowledged the class of this great footballer.

Hopefully this victory will boost the team morale for Saturday's CLASSICO.

If Madrid wins on Saturday, they will be equal on points with Barcelona.

Something to look forward to.

HALA MADRID.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ancelotti Include Morata and Varane in your squad for Juventus

Dear Sr. Ancelotti

Please include Morata and Varane in your squad against Juventus.

You need to win against Juventus if you are to have any chance against Barcelona.

Thank you

 

What happened to Barcelona?

What happened to Barcelona today?

They played good football but just couldn't convert.

Was this because of the absence of Messi?

But Messi played a for a brief period and Neymar was good.

The problem was no one stepped up to the plate and took responsibility.

Fabregas was awful for a footballer of his class.

Neymar played very well but why doesn't he finish and start scoring goals?

Iniesta and Xavi are not the players that were so dangerous last season.

I think Barcelona is vulnerable and if they fall behind, I believe they will have a mountain to scale.

And frankly I don't think they can make it. 

Real Madrid closes the gap with the Liga leaders

Saturday 19th October could be the beginning of something sweet for Real Madrid.

Not only did Madrid win convincingly at home, Atletico Madrid lost away to Espanoyl and Barcelona managed a draw at Osasuna.

So the 5 point difference is now to cut to three against Barcelona and two points to Atletico.

Good to be back in the game

So sorry - La Liga

 

Convincing Real Madrid's 2-0 victory over Malaga

After many weeks watching Real Madrid struggle, today we saw a much better display from Madrid.

Real Madrid had the lion's share of the ball possession and created opportunities at will. The only flaw was they ( read Ronaldo ) could not convert.

The man who stood between Madrid and many goals was the Malaga Goalkeeper - Willy.

Today was not of one Cristiano's better days. He missed so many opportunities that when he took the penalty, I thought, that going by the flow of play, he would not convert. But luckily he did.

Madrid played flowing football and the standouts were Marcelo, Di Maria and Morata. Even Khedira played well. The flowing attacks produced wonderful play but the finishing touch kept eluding Madrid.

The first half ended goalless. 

Almost at the beginning of the second half, Di Maria's cross found the back of the net as the Malaga Goalkeeper was distracted / blindsided by Cristiano's diving attempt to get a touch on the ball.

The game flowed at a frantic pace with Madrid launching one attack after another without much luck. Isco, Morata and Di Maria were substituted and we saw Modric, Bale and Jese enter the field of play.

Each played their own part and late in the second half, Bale was brought down inside the penalty area and Ronaldo converted.

I think the side fielded by Ancelotti was one of the better and stronger sides fielded by Madrid this season and it will great to see them play and gain confidence with one another.

This week with the European Championship match and the Classico coming up, Madrid needs to stay focused and stay strong.

Hope this victory over Malaga will provide the necessary boost they need.

 

 

 

 

Karim Benzema off to Arsenal???

Have you heard?
Karim Benzema is off to Arsenal for only $ 32million.
This is the news "hot" off the internet.
What wonderful news.
Sr. Florentino Perez you have been given a second chance to redeem yourself.
Which combination will give Real Madrid a good chance for the "DECIMA"?
1. Sell Benzema and do nothing.
2. Sell Benzema and bid for Lewandowski ( or Diego Lopez ).
3. Sell Benzema and buy back Ozil.
4. Sell Benzema and bid for Lewandowski ( or Diego Lopez ) AND Ozil.
The million dollar question is - which alternative will you take Sr. Florentino Perez?

 

Real Madrid again pulls out the rabbit to win at Levante 2-3

Again it was an anxious, nervous thriller for us - Madrid fans.

The Real Madrid supporters had to wait till the last minute of extra time for Cristiano Ronaldo to ensure a Madrid win with a shot that was deflected off a Levante defender to beat the Goalkeeper.

Do we have to suffer such? When can we see a comprehensive victory where Madrid  dominates by playing great football?

The first Levante goal came in the 57 min when the Levante forward found himself in front of Diego Lopez and had no problems in putting in the back of the net. The chip lob pass for the goal was the product of a really cool headed play.

After a long time we saw Sergio Ramos equalize with his legs from a corner!! Yes you read correctly. He did not head in the corner as he usually does, but he found himself close to the far post and he had to jump and guide the ball in with his right foot. It was well taken. Good man.

Ramos had another scoring opportunity but the ball hit our dear Karim Benzema in front of the Levante goal. For your information, Karim Benzema not only doesn't score goals, he now stops Madrid scoring goals!! Does Benzema play for Madrid or is he the original fifth columnist? 

Levante's second goal was puzzling. Here was the Levante forward inside Madrid's area and was surrounded by 4 white shirts and ofcourse Diego Lopez. How this guy with his back to Diego Lopez, twisted and kicked ( scooped ) the ball into the net, I will never know. What were the 4 white shirts doing? Shocking that 4 so called word class defenders allowed this goal to be scored.

At the end of regulation time, Levante was ahead 2-1. Their fans were going absolutely ballistic. A victory over Madrid at home!! It doesn't get any better than this.

During extra time, Morata got the ball in the Levante area and quick side step found himself with only the goalkeeper to beat and he did just that. He shot the ball passed the diving goalkeeper.

Madrid had equalized 2-2.

Still the match was not over. There was about a minute left of extra time.

Shortly after, with time running out, Marcelo gives the ball to CR7 and the rest is history. Beautiful shot on goal deflected off an defender and went in. This was sweet justice for the free kick that he had missed earlier in the match. The amazing free kick went over the barrier, bounced in front of the goalkeeper and hit the post and went out. It was a very well taken shot but unfortunately did not provide the desired result.

At the end....

Another game - another victory.

Three points in the bag.

But boy did we have our hearts pumping.

 

 

 

 

Technically the silliest goal you will ever see - 3rd CSKA goal

You must see CSKA Moscow's 3rd goal against Viktoria Plzen in the Champion's League.

It is " Technically" the silliest goal you will ever see.

Budding GoalKeepers do not practice this " Technique"

 

Bayern Munich - the Creme de la Creme

Will they win the Champions and seal the debate.

Bayern Munich is the best team in the World today.

Any doubts?

Anyone disagrees?

 

Manchester United almost in the Relegation zone

Manchester United are only 4 points above Fulham.

And Fulham is in the Relegation zone.

Not saying that Man U are in danger or will be relegated but certainly a lot of worries.

It is a place where you do not expect to see Manchester United in.

This is a new experience for a team of the stature and caliber of Manchester United.   

Maybe this humbling experience will be the catalyst needed` to improve the team and bring the players closer.

 

Oooof finally Real Madrid managed a win over weak Copenhagen

The Madrid team did not start with Sergio Ramos, Isco and Arbeloa but instead selected Marcelo, Carvajal and Varane. These were good moves as Madrid protected its left flank and Marcelo's speed and skills helped mount attacks from the left wing.

Carvajal played a more attacking game down the right hand side but he also seems incapable of crossing or centering balls to the forwards waiting in the area. This has become a major concern this year.

In the first half, Madrid attacked frequently but most of the moves fizzled out due to lack of ideas. The Madrid forwards were at one time lining up to take shots at the Copenhagen goal but the lack of accuracy was quite pathetic to watch.

As usual Benzema was not playing well but later in the match, he made a couple of good passes that brought back some of the Madrid fans to his side.

Late into the first half, Marcelo's measured, floating cross from the left completely fooled the Copenhagen goalkeeper and Ronaldo made no mistake in heading in his first goal. The cross was a beauty and all credit to Cristiano Ronaldo to head the ball down onto the grass and then bounced it in.

Madrid went into the interval with a goal advantage.

The second half began in the same manner as in the first half. Madrid lacked finishing skills and then after the first 10 minutes, the game changed. Madrid it seemed woke up and started playing some attacking and attractive football.

The second goal started with back heel from Benzema to Di Maria inside the area and Di Maria floated the ball to the near post. The beauty of this goal was that Ronaldo who was behind the defender, moved out in front of the defender and headed the ball home. The move to go in front and meet the ball and thereby taking the defender out the equation was really great thinking.

Madrid made two substitutions - bringing on Isco for Khedira and a little later Morata for Modric. The substitutions were applauded by the fans because firstly Khedira had not played particulary well and secondly Isco and Morata are fast becoming the Bernabeu favourites.

The third goal was a solo run by Di Maria at the Copenhagen goal and he curled the ball into the far left hand side giving the goalkeeper absolutely no chance at all. It was a great goal to see - specially when you can see the ball turning and beating the goalkeeper - a treat for the eyes.

Madrid made their third substitution for the night bringing on Jesse for Benzema.

The fourth goal came from the right hand side when Morata managed to "rob" the ball from the Copenhagen defender and pass the ball to Di Maria who made no mistake in putting the ball into the back of the net.

The match ended Real Madrid 4-0.

Although the fans were happy to go home with a victory, the Madrid defence let the Copenhagen forwards too much space and time with ball in their area. The Copenhagen team created quite a few dangerous chances. The first was in the first half when Luka Modric had to kick the ball away from Madrid's goal line. And in the second half, a Copenhagen forward found himself solo in front of the Madrid goal and thank Saint Iker for bringing off a brilliant save. That save was followed by a corner when Iker again had to pull off a left handed save. These were three clear chances of goal that Copenhagen missed.

Ancelotti should be careful of corners because everytime Copenhagen had a corner, the Madrid defence was caught out. This is a very serious weakness in the Madrid defence. The finishing skills have to be honed and finally the accuracy of passing needs improvement.

Anyway it looks like Real Madrid will sail into the next round with this victory.

So lets concentrate on the Liga.

 

 

 

 

  

 

" Black " Saturday 28th

When was the last time we saw

Manchester United

Manchester City and

Real Madrid

Lose on the same day

And lose by the same margin? ONE goal

Coincidence or

"Black " Saturday 28th???

 

 

Shameful display by Real Madrid in front of 80000 fans

Shame!! Disgraceful!! Shocking!!

Is this the result of Ancelotti being brought to the Bernabeu?

Is this the result of Zidane's influence on the team as the Assistant Coach?

Is the result of buying super stars?

I don't mind Real Madrid being beaten by a good and better team. But for Heaven's Sake - do not go down in this pathetic manner. It was the worst display of ineptitude I have seen from Real Madrid. And I can only blame Carlo Ancelotti and Florentino Perez.

One does not have to be "professional" football coach to tell you, and tell you correctly, that Real Madrid today is carrying Benzema , Arbeloa and Khedira. Without these three millstones around the Team's neck, I am sure Real Madrid will be a better team.

Forget analyzing the game.

We should discuss what is fundamentally wrong about the Team.

1. How many scoring chances were created in the first half?

2. How many passes were incomplete?

3. How many shots were taken at Atletic's goal?

4. How many times did Arbeloa pass the ball BACK to Pepe or Khedira?

5. How many times did Arbeloa cross the ball to his forwards?

6. How many times did Ronaldo enter Atletic's area?

The problems go on and on.

It was terrifying to see Atletico get the ball and run at the heart of the Madrid defence. The defence was like a house of cards - frail, weak and vulnerable. Everytime an attack was on, we felt the panic and terror in the defence.

Madrid's midfield was non existant today. Di Maria was awful. I was sorely missing Ozil weren't you Mr. Acelotti?

The only saving Grace was Diego Lopez. He was Madrid's savior yet again.

I really don't know where Madrid goes from here.

The Management needs to go back to the drawing board and start from the basics.

My simple advice is. You DO NOT need 11 men on the field. You need 11 professional, confident, skillful footballers who play in specialized positions and play as a team. 

 

 

Chelsea did just enough to snatch 1 point

Tottenham Hotspur came out playing good football and in the first half the goal that they scored was well constructed but eventually it was the determination of Gylfi Sigurdsson that brought about the goal. He was tackled and was going to ground but still, kept his head, and managed to slip in the ball past Cech.

Spurs created some good opportunities down the right side - through good one touch passing and eventually Paulino found himself in front of goal with only Cech to beat. But he made a hash of the chance and had he looked up. he would have seen a teammate in a better position to score. Besides Sigurdsson, Townsend was the stand out player for Spurs - he was brilliant in keeping the ball in possession, neat passing and great in passing the through ball.

It was a pity that Soldado and Paulino did not come into the game a wee bit more.

Chelsea did not fire at all in the first half. Oscar, Torres and Hazard did not look like scoring nor did they have any real opportunities of scoring. Chelsea's defence and midfield were busy trying to keep the Spurs attack at bay.

Chelsea hung on and went into the break, happy I am sure, to be just one down.

The second half started and immediately Mata was brought on. The substitution completely changed the complexion of the game. Now with Mata on, Torres was freed from his shackles and was all over the place creating scoring opportunities - one of which Oscar could not convert. Torres was galvanized into action and was making the Spurs defence look vulnerable and inevitably, the defenders began to wilt under pressure and the fouls kept mounting. On one of the moves, Ramires was brought down and Mata took the indirect free kick. Mata found the lunging John Terry's head and there it was - Chelsea's equalizer. On another occasion, Chelsea's Schurrle had a wonderful opportunity of scoring but struck the Spurs goalkeeper.

However after the goal, Chelsea seemed content to go back to defending and this gave Spurs the opportunities to attack. Defoe and the forwards did have a couple of chances but the ball went past by the goalposts - nothing really threatening.

I think an impartial observer would have sided with Spurs on the day but I suppose nobody can really complain with a draw. Neither team was dominant. 

 

 

Get Lewandowski to Madrid

I WANT to see Lewandowski play for Real Madrid.
Do you agree?
 

Real Madrid - cuesta mucho para ganar

This wasn't the script.
Sr. Florentino Lopez and his merry band were supposed to open their check books and VIOLA - there you have a winning team.
Its that simple.
Go buy footballers.
Yes Sr. Perez you did buy footballers.
But the problem is that most of them DO NOT :-
1. Inspire confidence
2. Not creative
3. Do not have the heart to die for the Club on the football pitch
4. Are not sure of their place in the team
They are mediocre in a GREAT CLUB.
Please understand Sr. Perez money isn't everything.
Why didn't Neymar want to come to Madrid?
Why can't you entice Lewandowski to forget about Bayern and come to Madrid.
You want to win the DECIMA?
CHANGE.

 

Real Madrid eventually overcomes valiant Elche - thanks to the Referee

Watching  the first half one might have thought that Elche are the favourites - the Galacticos and  Real Madrid were the minions.

Again Mr. Ancelotti- I have said this time and again, but you continue to turn a deaf ear:-

1. Sergio Ramos should have been sent off - had the Referee not been kind to Real Madrid. I have said this over and over again, Ramos is going to get Real Madrid into serious trouble by being sent off. He plays a very rough and dangerous game. You cannot put your team in danger by being so stupid.

2. Why is Ramos the Captain when he continually attracts yellow cards setting a bad example to the youngsters? If he cannot tackle legally he should be benched. It seems he gets a yellow card every single match.

3. Albeloa - how many times did he cross the ball - ONCE. He takes the ball up to the oppositions area and then passes the ball back. Please see the TV replays. Its awful. Terrible waste of an attacking move if you have to go back when you are in opponents area.

4. Passing the ball back when there is no opponent near you - see how many times the ball was passed back when taking the ball forward would have been the most logical thing to do. See the TV replays.

5. What is Khedira and Albeloa doing in the team? Benzema is atleast trying today - but he should also be benched.

6. The Madrid defence and midfield are weak - letting Elche do whatever they want - attack freely down Madrid's left flank.

7. Had it not been for Diego Lopez, Real Madrid would have been 2-0 down going into the break.

8. You don't have a genuine right winger.

9. The left flank is where all the attacks are coming through - the same every game.

Mr. Ancelotti, you belittled Ozil during the week, but your words will come back to haunt you. There are very few players of Ozil's caliber in Real Madrid.

I hope you throw the book at those highly overrated and overpaid players. They do not do our REAL MADRID BADGE and COLOUR  proud.

We are worried how Real Madrid will score, or will they score or can they score?

For us Madridistas, we have to suffer during every match. Our defence is porous. Our midfield lacks creativity and the forwards are not getting the right passes or crosses or through balls. Goals are like gold dust - very few and very precious.

The second half started and within a few minutes Ronaldo was brought down outside the Elche area and he converted from  the free kick. The free kick went through the barrier; in fact I think the Madrid players moved away and the ball went through the gap into the near post bouncing just as it went in.

After the goal, Madrid played indifferent football. Nothing happened. It was all Elche - they were trying their best to score a goal. They shots at Diego Lopez's goal - reminding me of the old saying - if you don't shoot or take a shot, you will not score a goal.

Elche's perseverance finally paid off when during extra time they stretched the Madrid's defence and the Ghanian forward headed home a beautiful, nicely constructed goal. A good move - free flowing - nice to watch.

As time was ticking way, Madrid was awarded a corner and from the corner- a penalty. It seemed like Pepe was held and brought down in the area. It was perhaps a fair decision for Madrid but a cruel one for Elche.

Ronaldo converted from the penalty spot.

Madrid came away with the 3 points.

But well done Elche you deserve more. You left your hearts out on the field.

We the Real Madrid fans salute you.    

You played well, you played with passion and you gave it your all.

What more can you do?

 

Passing the ball backwards

Nowadays many players are too concerned about getting rid of the ball too fast.

They do not look up and see what openings/plays are possible but rather pass the ball.

Get rid of the ball.

Getting of the rid of the ball is becoming today's "passing".

So no one can say they lost the ball to the opposing team.

Further many times they pass ball back towards their defenders or their goalkeeper.

In my opinion :-

1. They do this, because they don't want to be the one who loses the ball.

2.  By passing the ball backwards, they must realize that it breaks the flow of play. The opposing team gets a breather to regroup.

3. How many times have you seen a back pass to the goalkeeper nearly creating an opportunity of a goal for the opposing team?

4. Passing the ball backwards should be the last option, now it is the norm.

5. Further how many times have you seen players passing the ball back to their goalkeeper, when they are in the opposition's half?

This type of football brings disrepute to the "beautiful game".

Please Managers tell your players to move forward, rather than think in terms of safety for no rhyme or reason.   

 

Manchester City thump United 4-1

What a dazzling display of attacking football played by Manchester City. It was beautiful to watch. Negredo, Aguero and Navas ran the Manchester United defence ragged.

The crosses and passes City played were on target and the United defence had no answer. In fact United in the first half, had problems clearing the ball forget attacking City.

I got the feeling that United were not coordinated at the back, coupled with some very ordinary defending which does not become of a reigning Premier League Champion. It was quite sad to watch.

Without Van Persie, the Man U attack lacked bite. Yes Rooney was playing but Welbeck and Valencia, could not lend adequate support.

City went into the lead in the first half with a Sergio Aguero goal from a cross. It was the execution of the goal that was impressive. The ball was floated to Aguero above the waistline and slightly behind Aguero. Controlling the ball and driving it home from that height and slightly behind him, required considerable skill in my opinion.

The second goal followed soon after. A corner kick was floated in and a Man City player headed it towards goal and Torre who was hovering near the goal line, gladly accepted the free ball and tapped the ball home.

It was 2-0 at half time.

Almost as soon as the second half started, Aguero scored from a cross. The third goal was followed by the fourth from Nasri who latched on to a cross and hammered the ball past a hapless De Gea.

We were stunned that Man U gave away another 2 goals in such a short time after the half!! What did Moyes tell his players at half time? What was the message? Did this United team have the strength of character to come back? There was a lot of doubt created in our mind.

Man City was running riot and it was conceivable that they would easily put another couple past the United Goalkeeper. It could become embarrassing for United.

However United entered the game and started having a little more possession of the ball. And finally Rooney scored a brilliant goal from a free kick, The ball floated over the human barrier and buried itself in the top right hand corner of the net. The Man City keeper Hart had absolutely no chance to save the free kick.

The final result was Manchester City 4 Manchester United 1.

It was an afternoon to remember and relish for the City fans and an afternoon to forget for the United supporters.

But what is clear is that Manchester United is not a formidable side as it was last year. Is this because of the absence of Van Persie? Or is this because of the absence of Ferguson? Or both? I don't know.

There are many questions which need answers.

The Spanish footballing influence in the Barclays Premier League is positive from the spectators' point of view and enjoyment.