Parejo press conference
Daniel Parejo commented on the team’s chances of winning La Liga during Tuesday’s press conference.
How will the fact that the internationals have very little time to rest between now and Saturday affect the match?
Such a circumstance affects teams like ours because we have so many internationals and very few days to recover. However, we will still do our best to beat Malaga for the three points.
Are you disappointed about the little playing time you have received?
Playing for this club is the greatest that can happen to a player. I am not playing a lot, but I am happy to have debuted. I am young and have a lot of time ahead of me. I am happy to come to training every day and to wear the shirt I wear. I am grateful to players like Raul who constantly give me advice.
How was your experience in England?
It was all about training and developing away from home. It was the right move and it helped a lot.
There’s been talk about new midfielders coming in.
This is the best club in the world and the best footballers will come. I will fight in every workout and can only think about the present. I am here and I will do whatever it takes to earn a spot.
Does Juande deserve to continue next season?
We should worry more about what happens on the pitch. The club must decide. That said, Juande is doing a good job and we’re putting up champion-like numbers. We will support whatever coach is here.
Will this stoppage force you to ease up on the pressure being put on Barcelona?
They are six points ahead but we will not lose hope. Thirty points are still in play and we won’t give up because we are Real Madrid.
The recent assembly cooled down the social tension. Did it affect the team at all?
No it didn’t. It’s a club matter and we need to focus on what happens on the pitch.
Has the name Florentino Perez come up in the dressing room?
No it hasn’t and we’re not concerned with the matter.
Huntelaar to Hala Madrid
Klaas-Jan Huntelaar sat down with Real Madrid’s Hala Madrid magazine to discuss the early stages of his career and the goals he has set for himself during his time in the Spanish capital.
How did you get involved in football?
I started when I was four of five by playing on a team that some of my family placed on. My dad was the coach, so he was the one who got me started.
Your oldest memory as a footballer?
When I started winning trophies and the change to professional football. That’s when I realized I could make it big in the world of football.
Do you remember your first match?
Yes. I had a lot of fun playing. I was a forward on the first team I played for, but back then there was no game plan. Everyone went where the ball went.
Were you always a forward?
I played goalkeeper once when I was with De Graafschap. I enjoyed it, but it was a one-time thing.
Did you think you’d become a professional while playing for your first team?
Everything happened one step after the next. When you start on an amateur team you don’t really think how far you might get. I always took things slow and with a lot of self-confidence. I worked hard to make it to Ajax, and I felt proud once I got there. Then I continued working hard to reach where I am today, Real Madrid.
Who did you look up to?
Gullit and Van Basten when I was small and then Dennis Bergkamp.
How does it make you feel to be compared to Van Basten?
I don’t know. He stopped playing when I was very young. I don’t like to be compared to anyone. He was a great player recognized through all of Europe, so it makes me proud to know that people compare us.
What is it about Dutch football that produces such great players?
It starts at a grassroots level because teaching and training methods are so structured. The Dutch are crazy about football and they work hard to teach it to youth.
Does having fellow Dutchman on the team help with your adaptation?
Of course. In training for example I can ask them in Dutch what the coach is saying. It makes communicating easier, but they also helped me with other stuff when I first arrived.
What do you like most about Real Madrid?
The stadium and the fans. Both are fantastic.
And what about the city?
I love the old buildings because I really like culture. I haven’t had the chance to walk around, but I came here a year ago with my family for vacation and I got to see a little.
What was the first thing to cross your mind when Real Madrid called?
That I couldn’t think twice. It’s the best club in the world and I am convinced that every player they call doesn’t have to think twice about the decision. I had made up my mind because although Ajax is a fantastic club, Real Madrid is better. I also like the white shirt because it has special meaning.
Why?
I like how classic, traditional and historic it is, I want to celebrate a lot of goals in it.
How does playing and scoring in the Bernabeu feel?
The first match was to get a feel for the atmosphere. The stadium is huge, but I don’t notice it when I am playing because I am too focused on the match.
Is La Liga a tough league?
It’s a great competition and along with England I think one of the two best in Europe.
What goals do you have while playing for Real Madrid?
To win many titles. I have a lot of years ahead of me here and winning leagues and the Champions league are dreams of mine.
Any message for the fans?
I will give them all I’ve got. I know I will improve here and score many goals for this team.
Atletico Madrid B 0-0 Real Madrid Castilla
Real Madrid Castilla only mustered up a draw against cross-town rival Atletico Madrid B on Sunday at Cerro del Espino Stadium. Another two points would have helped in the youth team’s quest for promotion, but the wind, several key absences and the sending off of David Mateos prevented Castilla from claiming another big win.
Match Summary:
Atletico Madrid B: De Gea, Cesar, Regalon, Dominguez, Aitor Nuñez, Ruben Perez, Keko (Cedric, minuto 72), Giraldez, Ruben Ramos, Koke, Guerra (Adams, minuto 66).
Real Madrid Castilla 0: Adan, Velayos, Agus, Gary, Chema Anton, Marcos Tebar, Mateos, Acuña, Vazquez, Alberto Bueno (Denis Tcherysev, minuto 78), Szalai (Zamora, minuto 66).
Referee: Bilbao Vizcain
Spain 1-0 Turkey
Spain opened up a six-point lead at the top of FIFA World Cup qualifying Group 5 after Gerard Piqué’s first international goal helped Vicente Del Bosque’s team to a 1-0 win over Turkey at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Turning the ball in after Xavi Hernández’s 60th-minute free-kick had come back across goal via Sergio Ramos, FC Barcelona defender Piqué kept the UEFA EURO 2008™ winners well on track for a berth in South Africa next summer. Spain now possess a comfortable cushion over second-placed Bosnia-Herzegovina, with Turkey seven points back in third ahead of Wednesday’s return encounter in Istanbul.
The contest itself was anything but straightforward, however, as Spain struggled to break down a resolute Turkey side who made the early running. After five minutes, Villarreal CF’s Nihat Kahveci fired narrowly wide and, moments later, Semih Sentürk tested Iker Casillas’s reflexes with a thumping drive. The hosts came into the game looking to extend their unbeaten run to 30 matches but had to wait until the brink of half-time for their first opening, Fernando Torres’s shot from the edge of the area drawing a good save from Volkan Demirel.
Tuncay Sanli went close for the visitors shortly after the restart, yet just as the Madrid crowd were becoming apprehensive, Piqué capped his second international appearance with the winner. David Silva, Xabi Alonso and Sergio Ramos all had chances to add a more flattering aspect to the scoreline, but as it was, the hosts maintained their 100 per cent record and will be hoping for a similar outcome in midweek.
MATCH SUMMARY:
Lineups:
Spain: Iker Casillas; Sergio Ramos, Albiol, Pique, Capdevila; Cazorla (Silva, m.78), Xabi Alonso, Senna, Xavi; Villa (Mata, m.63), Torres (Fernando Llorente, m.87).
Turkey: Volkan Demirel; Gokhan Gonul, Emre Asik, Balta, Ibrahim Uzulmez; Tuncay Sanli, Mehmet Aurelio, Emre Belozoglu (Sabri, m.84), Arda Turan (Gokan Unal, m.78); Nihat, Semih Senturk (Ayhan Akman, m.57).
Goal:
1-0, Piqué
Referee: Massimo Busacca (SUI)
Spain vs Turkey | FIFA World Cup 2010 Qualification | Preview
La Roja return to the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday, and Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos will be there to help Spain take three vital points in qualifying for World Cup 2010. Turkey are second in the group table and will host Vicente del Bosque and company next week in Istambul.
La Roja will be looking to increase the four-point advantage they hold over Fatih Terim’s UEFA EURO 2008™ semi-finalists at the top of qualifying Group 5 when the sides meet at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium on Saturday night before the return game in Istanbul four days later. A run of 29 internationals without defeat has left many Spanish fans assuming a result against Turkey is a foregone conclusion, something Del Bosque felt at pains to correct. “This group of players has created a great atmosphere since winning the European Championship,” the Salamanca-born coach explained. “That triumph helped to create a bond with the fans and that’s a positive thing for the team but you have to remember we’re not unbeatable. When we eventually lose it will be painful but at that moment we will lift ourselves and start thinking about the next game.”
Spain go into the qualifiers without injured FC Barcelona pair Carles Puyol (ankle) and Andrés Iniesta (groin), plus Arsenal FC’s Cesc Fàbregas (knee) while Valencia CF’s David Silva (groin) remains a doubt. Xavi Hernández and striker David Villa have shaken off respective achilles tendon and ankle knocks, however, and are expected to line up against a Turkish team Del Bosque has researched thoroughly. “We know them individually and collectively and we know how they play,” he said. “The game will be tricky but we’re confident we can take the three points on Saturday. We are fortunate in that the players we have available are all extremely committed to the national team and they love coming to play for Spain. The players we have and the good football we play makes for a strong unit here.”
Terim, meanwhile, demanded his charges pick up the pace in the section, especially after dropping points in their last game away to Estonia. “I like a team that fights until the end and this one never gives up,” the 55-year-old said. “Nobody expected us to achieve what we did [at UEFA EURO 2008™] and we need to look to return to playing at that level.” Turkey, who will be without the injured FC Bayern München midfielder Hamit Altintop, will be under strict instructions from their coach when they take to the pitch in Madrid. “Spain have a very talented team, especially in attack. We must try to close down their service from midfield and ensure we don’t leave any gaps.”
Huntelaar to uefa.com
Klaas-Jan Huntelaar teamed up with UEFA to reveal the secrets to being a prolific goal-scorer.
POSITIONING:
When the ball is on the wing I choose the right position, I look where the defender and the ball are. I take my position in back of the defender, then I can come in front of him or around him. I can choose either. If you’re in front of him it’s difficult to choose which side.
SHOOTING:
I look at where the goalkeeper is standing and then choose my side to shoot. Then I watch the ball and make sure I hit it really well in the middle.
It’s important to practice finishing a lot because then you know when to shoot and how to shoot. You have to look at the goalkeeper, see where the space is and shoot there.
GROWING UP:
When I was younger my idols were Van Basten and Gullit. When I was a little bit older they quit football and I looked up to Dennis Bergkamp and Kluivert. But I mostly followed Bergkamp because he was a smart, clever player.
Miguel Torres press conference
Miguel Torres believes Real Madrid can win the league if they stay on track and continue putting forth the same effort as seen in recent months.
Can this stoppage hurt the team’s run because so many players are on international duty?
Possibly, but I think every player wants to play for his national team. I hope they are all fit when they come back. We must continue this course and put pressure on Barcelona.
What do academy players have to do to reach the first team?
Work hard. Nothing here is gift wrapped. The club has always counted on the academy although it is very difficult. We’re here to help in any way possible.
Will you be upset if you don’t play against Malaga with Heinze unavailable?
Always. I might have a chance against Malaga. I won’t make it easy for the coach. I think I can contribute a lot if I play on a regular basis.
Do you think you will reconsider your future at season’s end?
Probably not because there will be so many changes this summer. Every season starts from zero. It’s taken a lot of work to get to the first team, but I hope things change next season.
Does the team really believe it can turn the league around?
Yes. That’s what Madridismo is all about. We want to win every match. Barcelona are in spectacular form, but every Real Madrid player will give it his all. We can at least put pressure on Barcelona.
How do think Lass and Huntelaar have adapted?
There was a little controversy about their arrivals, but they doing a great job. It’s nice to play with them.
And what about Castilla, who yesterday made it back into playoff contention?
They’re having a great year. I hope they get promoted because it would be great news for the academy.
When do the players want elections to take place?
The players want La Liga to end and for us to win it. I want the date to be the best for everyone involved and that next season can be well-planned
Cannavaro to Don Balon
In an interview with Don Balon, Fabio Cannavaro reveals the secrets to Real Madrid winning the La Liga.
Fabio in action
I feel great and I think I am having a good season. I am 35 but as eager now as I was when I was young. The formula for eternal youth is work. I have always liked training and knowing that I am as fit as my 23-year old teammates is motivating. I have been at the top of my game since joining Real Madrid because every morning I wake up anxious to train and the desire to win more titles.
I want to join Italy and have a good competition. I couldn’t participate in the last Euro because I was injured, so I want to get that bad taste out of my mouth by playing in the World Cup. I am pleased with my career because I have been fortunate to play for Italy’s most important clubs and the most important club in the world.
We were unlucky in drawing Liverpool because they are a strong, good, serious, well-positioned team that has more technique than we do. We are competitive. We won the last two leagues, but English teams such as Liverpool are above all other European teams that play in the Champions League.
Juande instilled calm, work ethic and some very important rules. Sergio, Pepe, Heinze and I don’t appear to be bad. When forwards, midfield and defense do what they are supposed to, no team can shoot on this goal. I like to speak to all the defenders, but I don’t know if any has learned anything or not. We have young players with bright futures such as Pepe, Marcelo and Sergio, who is now more relaxed than before. Real Madrid has more than one good defender.
Real Madrid Castilla 3-2 Leganes
Real Madrid Castilla are back in the playoff picture with an epic 3-2 victory over group leader Leganes. Alberto Bueno scored a brace in the waning minutes of the first half and Castilla held on in the second to move within three points of Leganes at the top of the table.
Lineups:
Real Madrid Castilla: Adán; Villafañe, Agus, Gary (D. Mateos, min.50) Marcos Alonso; Acuña (Palanca, min.39), Marcos Tébar, Mosquera, Vázquez; Bueno (Javi H., min.74)
Leganés: Raúl Moreno; Gustavo (Landaburu, min.45), Mario, Javi, Bermudez; Valleros, Gastón (Juli, min.52), Casquero (Negral, min.45), Javi Vicente; Nacho Aznar, Anibal.
Goals:
1-0: Acuña
2-0: Bueno
3-0: Bueno
3-1: Javi Vicente
3-2: Valleros
Codina press conference
Former youth teamer Jordi Codina offered Wednesday’s press conference following the match between the first team and Real Madrid C.
First De la Red, Soldado, etc. Now Diego Lopez. Real Madrid’s academy is doing very well.
It goes to show how good Real Madrid’s academy is. Many players have been called up by their national teams.
Are you happy for your former teammate Diego Lopez?
He’s among Europe’s best right now. He deserves that spot on the national team.
What does your future have in store?
I don’t know. Diego is a perfect example though. All his hard work and playing paid off.
Is there a riff between Juande and Guti?
Things happen within a team, but I haven’t seen anything strange of late between the two.
How was the match against Real Madrid C?
The first team won, but the guys did a great job. One day they will see their work pay off and they will talk in this same room like I am today.
When do you prefer election to be held?
Honestly, I keep away from all that. My job is to train. Whatever decision is made it will be best for the club.
How have Lass and Huntelaar adapted?
They continue proving they deserve to be here. Let’s hope they continue.
Only six points separate you and Barcelona.
Only ten matches remain. It’s really tough. The league will be decided in head-to-head matchups. We’re still alive and we will fight until we are mathematically out of it.
The team is having a great second half to the season.
We are and we must continue cutting into Barcelona’s lead.
How was the turnaround Real Madrid completed two years ago to win La Liga like?
It was incredible. No one would have bet on Madrid with twelve weeks to go, but we ended up winning the league. We are confident we can come back this year.
Makelele to AS
Claude Makelele won six titles in two seasons with Real Madrid. The Frenchman who will soon retire from football commented on the future of Lassana Diarra to AS newspaper.
I’d like this team to return to the level it used to be at. I’ve lived life to the fullest and now it’s time for the younger guys to step in. Lass is a respectful hard worker. I am happy he is doing so well at Madrid. Nobody knew of him when he arrived. I joined Real Madrid under similar circumstances. His arrival was very discrete, but he’s got an incredible future. He will be better than I was. I spoke to him when he signed for Chelsea and I told him that the position is very unrewarding because nobody notices it. He loves his work. He doesn’t speak much; he only works hard. It’s in his blood. He likes to look ahead, to grow as a footballer. He is very ambitious, tough and intelligent. He is younger than I was when I arrived. Lass will be much more than I ever was. He’s got an incredible future.
Juande Ramos on Realmadrid Radio
Juande Ramos was Tuesday’s guest speaker on Realmadrid Radio.
At no point did we calculate the 12 points that distanced us from Barcelona. Our goal was to go Sunday to Sunday and match to match. This team is winning and forcing Barcelona to do the same. The key was to instill calm among the players and to ensure that they believed in themselves. We try to get the best out of them so that they feel like Real Madrid footballers on gameday. The effort put forth day in and day out allows us to stay in the chase. State of mind was important. We had to recover the sense of security. The players had to feel sure of themselves tactically and psychologically. Real Madrid are in the chase. Barcelona can’t afford any mistake because we are right behind. I hope to win La Liga with Real Madrid. We can only win by playing well and with balance. Conceding few goals means your defense is working and scoring goals means your offense is working. Our early results were minimal, but they have grown a lot. Other than the Barcelona match, which we had no time to prepare for, we have won by more than one goal in every road match. Marcelo always trained as a winger. He’s got what it takes to alternate to an attacking midfielder. The team was allowing many goals and the defense wasn’t very sure of itself. That is why we moved him up. The Sporting Department deserves the credit for the signings. We believed Lass was an important player and both he and Huntelaar are doing incredible jobs. Diarra knows how to read matches perfectly. Real Madrid has many good academy squads, which is where the best youth in the country are. Youth teamers should have enough ambition to win their spot over foreigners who come. I check on the academy because it’s my job, but it’s the players who need to come knocking. Playing for Real Madrid is a tremendous reward. I didn’t think twice when Real Madrid called me. I don’t regret the decision. I am proud of it. I never imagined being here when I first began my career as coach. Winning a title at Wembley with Tottenham against Chelsea was incredible. The role of the coach of Real Madrid is very important, but I handle business here the same way I did with Sevilla, Malaga and Rayo Vallecano.
Huntelaar to Marca
Klaas-Jan Huntelaar sat down with Marca and offered his views on news concerning Real Madrid, the battle for the league title and his current form.
All I want to do is help the team by scoring. There are plenty of players here who are capable of finding the back of the net. Robben, Raul, Sneijder, Higuain… Van Nistelrooy is an amazing striker who I have a lot to learn from. We speak often and he helps me. During my first few matches when I was unable to score, he told me to remain calm and not lose focus. I owe it to him. The day I signed for Real Madrid was the happiest day of my life. I play for the best club in the world and I am satisfied to no end to play with this shirt and in a stadium like the Bernabeu. We will do whatever it takes to win every match and will wait to see if Barcelona stumble.
Santa Brigida 0-0 Real Madrid Castilla
Castilla could have easily won the match if only some of their many chances on goal had been successful. The second team played a serious, focused and solid game and continue to stand undefeated – third consecutive game -.
MATCH REPORT:
Villa Santa Brigida: Ione; Alex Castro, Badayco, Youssouf, Aridani; Angel Rodriguez, Roberto, Dudi, Lomban; Jonay, Nacho.
Real Madrid Castilla: Adan; Villafañe, Agus, Gary, Marcos Alonso; Acuña, Mosquera, Mateos, Vazquez (Palanca); Denis (Bueno), Szalai (Zamora).
Referee: Mariscal Sánchez.
Booked: Denis (15′), Agus (34′), Gary (56′), Adan (66′), Palanca (85′), Dudi (38′), Badayco (44′).
Red cards: Zamora, Youssouf and Aridani.
Post-match comments
Juande Ramos was happy with the victory against Almeria and praised Marcelo, Huntelaar and Lass. Pedja Mijatovic commented on the victory against Almeria. Robben and Marcelo were happy with the victory. Both said the team has to continue to fight hard to win the league title.
Juande Ramos:
The result was adequate for the game we played. I would have liked my team to dominate more. We have to keep possession longer at the Bernabeu, but I am satisfied with the victory. I think Lass and Huntelaar have been helping the team out enormously in both competitions. We may have regretted inscribing Huntelaar in the Champions League in the long run. We don’t know what would have happened. The fact is they are both playing at a very high level. We played magnificently well in Bilbao and I wanted the same men to play again. It’s fair that way. We have a large squad and some players have to miss some games. Guti has virtues and faults, just like every other player, and we must focus on the former. I think he is a very intelligent player and we will try to make him play his best football. I’m not bothered by people saying I am a defensive coach, but we average three goals per game in our last six clashes. Numbers speak for themselves. Marcelo is improving and he feels gradually better as an interior left midfielder. He scored an amazing goal that will boost his confidence. The fact that he opened up the score is great for both him and the team.
Pedja Mijatovic:
I think the team played well in a game that was somewhat cold probably due to how early in the day it took place in. We aren’t used to playing at 17:00. It was important to win today. We took three points and our good streak and good work continue. Almeria tried to defend and attack well. We suffered a little too much in the first half, but we reacted after half-time. We should focus on each game at a time without thinking about the math. We have to continue working well despite what Barcelona do. We have to try to cut distances short in the following ten games. The streak we are having is impressive. It isn’t easy to stand undefeated in 13 consecutive games. We have to keep it up. I think we’ll be able to pull it off, but in order to do so we must focus on each game as if it were a final. I am very happy for Marcelo because he is young and has a bright future. He is playing well down the left. Huntelaar has proven to have great goal-scoring skills. The coach always wants to try out different players because the next few weeks will see suspensions, injuries, etc. It’s good to give benched players some time to play because we will eventually need all of them.
Robben:
The only thing we can do is win our games and play well. We must just think of ourselves. We played badly in the first half because the pace of the game was rather slow and there was hardly any intensity. We played much better in the second half. We found more spaces after Marcelo scored his goal. Huntelaar is incredible; he is always well positioned. He scored two goals from two deflections. I’m going to join the Netherlands for an international game that we will also win.
Marcelo:
I’m very happy with my goal. I got to the ball in time and shot hard. We are a family and I like to celebrate my goals with all my team-mates. One player alone can’t win a game; we are a family. This is an excellent result for us because it is another victory and it means we didn’t fail. We will continue to fight for the title despite the stoppage due to international games. We are anxious to return in order to keep trying to catch up with Barcelona. The Brazilian coach also has faith in me. I’m interested in Barcelona’s result tonight, but I’m not worried about it. We have to work even harder and keep fighting. There are still many games left.
Real Madrid 3-0 Almeria
Real Madrid defeated Almeria 3-0 tonight and therefore stand undefeated in La Liga in 13 consecutive games. Marcelo scored a beautiful goal from outside the box and Huntelaar netted two strikes in the second half, very much in the style of legendary Madridista and current Almeria coach Hugo Sacnhez, who received a warm welcome from the crowd.
The players of both teams wore special FAO shirts as part of the Footballers Against Hunger campaign. Juande Ramos used the same line-up that scored five goals against Athletic Bilbao last week. Marcelo had a chance on goal as soon as the game started with a shot from outside the box that was slightly off target. Sneijder also had a chance on the 4-minute mark. Mane had Almeria’s first chance moments later and Uche came close to scoring from a header, but Casillas saved the day (7′).
Raul came close to finishing off a good cross from Sneijder (12′), and two minutes later managed to hit another cross from the Dutchman, but his shot was deflected by a defender. The visitors managed to keep possession and had more chances on Real Madrid’s goal. Both teams used long passes and focused on playing in midfield. Then, Marcelo stepped up, controlled the ball right outside Almeria’s box, and sent the ball through Diego Alves’ top right corner with his right foot (23′).
Almeria didn’t give up and played well in midfield, but they had few chances to score. Lass and Sneijder also kept busy in midfield, and on the 32-minute mark, a play started by the former and continued by the latter ended in a shot off target by Raul. Huntelaar had a similar shot to Marcelo’s, but he hit a defender.
Piatti had a weak shot on target at the start of the second half. Real Madrid’s first chance in the last 45 minutes came through Marcelo, who took advantage of a mistake made by Bruno and sent the ball to Alves’ crossbar. The Brazilian came close to scoring again from inside the box, but the keeper managed to send the ball out. A corner kick was awarded and Raul tried to score from a header, but Alves cleared the ball only to send it to Huntelaar, who scored from a powerful shot (53′).
A few moments later, Ortiz cleared a header from Heinze on the goal-line following a corner kick served by Sneijder, who later started a counterattack by passing the ball to Robben. The latter came face to face with Alves and failed to defeat him, but the ball landed at Huntelaar’s feet and the striker scored his second goal (66′).
Lass was given a standing ovation when Juande replaced him with Gago. Metzelder and Torres came on for Pepe and Heinze and the intensity of the match decreased. Robben managed to pull off a few impressive dribbles down the right wing, but he didn’t shoot on target. In the end, Real Madrid won an important victory that will put more pressure on Barcelona.
Lineups:
Real Madrid: Casillas, Sergio Ramos, Cannavaro, Marcelo, Pepe (Metzelder 80′), Heinze (Torres 85′), Sneijder, Robben, Lass (Gago 68′), Huntelaar, Raúl;
Almería: Diego Alves, Bruno, Acasiete, Pellerano, Mané, Juanito, Crusat, Iriney (Nieto 86′), Juanma Ortiz (Ortiz 61′), Piatti, Kalu Uche (Corona 69′);
Goals:
1-0, 23′ – Marcelo;
2-0, 53′ – Huntelaar;
3-0, 67′ – Huntelaar;
Referee: Antonio Miguel Mateu Lahoz.
Booked: Sergio Ramos, Heinze, Gago, Raul, Lass,Bruno, Iriney.
Reak Madrid vs Almeria | Spanish Primera Liga | Round 27 | Preview
Real Madrid will face Almeria at the Bernabeu on Sunday at 17:00 CET, hoping to put pressure on Barcelona with another victory. Coach Hugo Sanchez will return to the stadium where he became a legend. Cannavaro, Gago and Higuain will be able to play.
Almeria are currently 12th on the table with 31 points. They are a solid local team, but they have trouble as visitors, having taken only six points away from their stadium. Former Castilla player Nieto and Esteban Solari -brother of former Madridista Santiago Solari- are the new faces on Sanchez’s squad list. Alvaro Negredo and Chico will miss the clash.
Positive precedent
Almeria have lost their three previous matches at the Bernabeu. Real Madrid defeated them 4-1 in the 1979/80 season, 4-0 in 1980/81 and 3-1 over 20 years later.
Hugo Sanchez returns home
The emotional touch of the game will be Hugo Sanchez’s return to the Bernabeu. The Mexican joined Real Madrid in 1985 and left in 1992. He scored 250 goals and won five league titles and one UEFA Cup amongst many other accolades. He won the Pichichi trophy five times -four as a Real Madrid player-. Sanchez will surely receive a very warm welcome from the crowd.
Gago and Cannavaro return; Higuain recovers in time
Juande Ramos has called-up 18 men for Sunday’s 17:00 CET clash with Almeria at the Bernabeu. Fernando Gago was suspended for the match in Bilbao and has made his return to the coach’s list. Cannavaro and Higuain have recovered from their injuries and will also face the southern side. Guti, Saviola, Drenthe, Garcia, Codina and Faubert have been left our for coaching decisions.
SQUAD LIST
Goalkeepers: Casillas, Dudek.
Defenders: Pepe, Metzelder, Sergio Ramos, Cannavaro, Heinze, Torres.
Midfielders: Lass, Gago, Sneijder, Marcelo, Parejo, Robben.
Forwards: Raul, Higuain, Huntelaar.
Juande press conference
Juande Ramos talked to the press prior to Real Madrid’s Sunday clash at the Bernabeu with Almeria.
How does Higuain feel?
He’s made the squad list and I hope he can play. He trained hard and feels ready to help the team.
Will you make any changes to the starting line-up?
I’ve calle-up 18 men because I like making my mind up a few hours before the game starts. We may experience some last minute problems and that’s why I don’t like to announce my line-ups. A tactical change is possible.
You have a good chance to use just one defensive midfielder, as opposed to two…
This is not a defensive team. In fact, this is one of the top-scoring Real Madrid sides of recent years. I think the team is earning magnificent numbers in attack. The squad is very well balanced both in defence and in the front line.
Did the victory in Bilbao help the team recover psychologically?
It naturally did. Our match against Athletic gave the team new hopes and excitement to be successful at the end of the campaign. Barcelona hold an important lead, but it’s possible to catch up with them. It is our duty to win all our games.
Almeria are dangerous. Real Madrid drew against them in the first part of the season.
Every team tries to do its best at the Bernabeu. They are all professional and try to earn a good result. On the other hand, Real Madrid are used to playing against teams like Almeria. We will play hard at the start in order to decide the match as soon as possible.
It will be Hugo Sanchez’s first game at the Bernabeu as a First Division coach.
I’m sure the fans will give him a warm welcome, but they also know how important the three points are for us and they will want us to win.
Do you think Almeria will try hard to win the game?
You should ask him that, but I can tell you no professional coach tries not to win.
They were disappointing against Barcelona…
I just like to give my opinion on Real Madrid. I don’t know how they played against Barcelona and I also don’t know if he will change his system against us. I have little to say on the matter.
Hugo likes to be the centre of attention, the star. Can one person do so much for a whole team?
I think every team resembles its coach. He must have had something to do in Almeria’s new mentality.
He said it’s possible for Real Madrid to catch up with Barcelona. Does Barça’s participation in the Champions League favour Real Madrid?
It does, but just on a mathematical level; they have to play more games than us. They will have to exert themselves more, but I don’t know if that will really favour us. What would help is that they drop points while we win all our games.
How does Drenthe feel?
He’s been sick with flu and hasn’t been able to train normally. He has less chances of playing because Marcelo has done brilliantly in his position and because I can’t use all my men.
Cannavaro to Grada Blanca
Fabio Cannavaro is a firm believer in the chances the team has to win the league title. The Italian defender told Grada Blanca that the team can’t afford to make any mistakes in La Liga.
How do you feel from the muscle contracture that didn’t allow you to travel to Bilbao?
I feel much better. I rested the days after the game and began training in the gym on Tuesday. I rejoined the squad on Wednesday.
You must be in optimum form to face Almeria…
I hope so, but Juande will decide if I play.
Will the match at the Bernabeu be very different to the game you drew in Almeria?
It will be different because we will host the game and we can’t afford to fail. We’ll have to do whatever it takes to win because our future in La Liga depends on it.
What worries you the most of Almeria?
They can complicate things for us. They will be motivated to play in an important stadium like the Bernabeu. They will fight to dominate every inch of the pitch and to keep possession. We must play a clever game and use their mistakes to our advantage. Winning is what really counts.
The fans’ support must be essential for such a triumph…
We are nothing without the people that pack the Bernabeu every weekend. They are an important part of our fight to win the league title.
The team overcame the Anfield defeat in Bilbao. Real Madrid weren’t as bad as people said they were in Liverpool, but people shouldn’t praise the team exceedingly now either. It is better to focus on one game at a time.
It’s essential to go step by step. We have to continue working as we’ve done so far. We must forget about the Liverpool defeat and move on.
The team has eleven ‘finals’ left in its fight to win La Liga…
They will all be complicated. The Bernabeu game against Barcelona stands out, but we also have to travel to Seville, Valencia… We will do our best in all of the eleven finals.
Is the team anxious about the rematch with Barcelona?
We are anxious to win the game. Victory is essential. They are currently ahead of us on the table and defeating them would have a strong impact.
Do you think playing in three competitions could hinder Barcelona?
I hope it does. They will drop one competition or another at some point and I hope it turns out to be the league.
Is the squad ready to win the league title?
That’s our goal. We have a game every seven days, giving us a whole week to study our opponents. I’m sure we will make good use of this advantage.
You are comeback specialists…
Our fans must have faith in us until the very end of the championship. I’m sure good things will come if we continue to work this well.
What would you like to say to the fans to make them believe in a comeback?
I would ask them to have faith in us. This is a very strange season during which we’ve had two coaches and two Presidents, but the important thing is that we are still working hard. I’m sure we will win the title if we put up a good fight.
You’ve won a league title in every season you’ve played for the Club. Do you think you’ll win again?
I hope so. Winning is great; you get used to it and want more. I wouldn’t be bad to win three consecutive league titles.
What’s surprised you the most about Spain so far?
I’ve had a great experience in this country. I’ve had the chance to meet new people and celebrate titles with my team-mates. I’ve been given the chance to share a dressing room with great players like Casillas, Raul, Guti, Pepe… I am very happy in Madrid.
Which team-mate has impressed you the most?
Sergio Ramos has impressed me considerably. His strength and quality will make Real Madrid fans very happy. This team has a perfect blend of young players and veterans.
Your experience and success have made you a squad leader and a fan favourite…
My contract ends in June and we will fight for the league title to the end. We’ll see what happens next.
What’s your fondest memory of your time at Real Madrid?
The relationship I have with the people of Madrid. It’s priceless and very important to me.
Hugo Sanchez to Realmadrid.com
Beginning in 1985 Hugo Sanchez led an offense that won five consecutive league titles. The Mexican star’s aerial acrobatics were a frequent sight during his seven seasons with Real Madrid and his 207 goals earned him four Pichichi trophies. Seventeen years after leaving the club, Sanchez returns to the Bernabeu as head coach of Almeria.
Hugo Sanchez returns to the Bernabeu.
I am very excited. I am returning home, but now it’s official. The last time was for an exhibition match with Pumas in 2004. It definitely makes me happy. The last time is a great memory because it was the first time a team beat Real Madrid for the Santiago Bernabeu Trophy.
How will you feel when you walk up the tunnel towards the pitch?
I’m overwhelmed with emotion, but the feeling will have to take a back seat for a while. Work comes first. Winning the three points is important for us. But if we don’t win, a draw would be good, especially under the circumstances. We’re playing at the Bernabeu agains Real Madrid.
You already won once in the Bernabeu.
That is correct. I would like to make history with Almeria and win in the Santiago Bernabeu for the first time. It would be a second historic milestone. The first, like I said, was winning with Pumas to become the first American team to win here. The challenge now is to win here with Almeria for the first time.
You also have players with Madridista pasts.
Yes. We have Negredo, Corona and Nieto. All three are products of Real Madird. Negredo cannot play, and without him we lose an important component of our offense. He is a player who continues to improve. He’s a great goal-scorer. He always creates danger. I am sorry he cannot play.
How do you find Real Madrid?
I would have loved to see Real Madrid defeat Liverpool. There was a lot of expectation that the team would reach the final. Now all that is left is La Liga, and I think it is just as difficult to win as the Champions League. But Real Madrid are capable of anything. Being eliminated must have been devastating, but Madrid will recover. I am sure of it.
Raul recently surpassed Di Stefano’s record of goals. What’s your opinion on Raul?
Raul is a symbol of Madridismo. His career speaks for itself, but he is also a reference for new generations of Madridistas and football around the world. Players like him are needed for football to grow
Metzelder to Realmadrid TV
In an interview with Realmadrid TV and Realmadrid.com, Christoph Metzelder commented on the team’s confidence heading down the home stretch of the season and the forthcoming match against Almeria.
Almeria are coached by a former Madridista who is very familiar with Real Madrid and the stadium. How might this influence them match?
All teams at this level know each other pretty well. So because we have players with the talent that they have, everyone knows how we play. We must take the initiative. Almeria will defend and look for chances on the counterattack. We must take the initiative.
Is it good for Real Madrid that Alvaro Negredo cannot play?
He’s the best forward the team has. He also scored many goals last year. He is a dangerous player, which is why it’s an advantage for us. However, we must focus on out game, our style and our plays. That’s how we will win.
Real Madrid have discovered the winning formula since Juande Ramos arrived. Why is that so?
This team has a lot of talent. We have players with tremendous individual capabilities, which is why this team found its way to play well and win. I think the job Juande Ramos has done also played a role, but this team is very talented.
Six points separate Real Madrid and Barcelona, who still have to visit the Bernabeu. Are they the most crucial points that remain?
Yes, but I think we need to win every match we have left in order to maintain the pressure on Barcelona. We have some tough road matches still to play, which is why every match is crucial. We have eleven finals.
What realistic chance does Real Madrid have of retaining the league title?
Six points isn’t a lot, and Barcelona are still in three competitions. They have a lot of matches to play and we only have La Liga to focus on. We know how good they are. They’ve done very well in the league, so it will be difficult. We will however fight until the very end.
Sneijder press conference
Wesley Sneijder, who looked like his old self against Athletic Bilbao, believes in his team and its chances of winning La Liga.
How is the team preparing for Sunday’s match against Almeria?
Every match we have left is a final. We must win all eleven of them. We are down by six points, which although isn’t much, means we need to continue playing as always and as we have in recent matches. We can win the league if we do.
The team responded after the Champions League disappointment. Can we start believing in the team again?
I think we recovered well after the Liverpool match. We played well against Athletic, but there are eleven finals remaining.
Does the pre-election process affect the team?
I don’t think so. We’re in the middle of the season and that’s all that matters. We must focus on La Liga and not think about anything else.
Barcelona must compete in other competitions. Do you pay much attention to the calendar?
Barcelona still have some tough Champions League matches. We need to beat them at home, but first we need to concentrate on Sunday. We need to win every match that is left, including against Barcelona.
How do you feel after the rut you were in?
I feel great. I played well against Athletic, but it’s too early to say that I’m back. I feel good.
Is there a riff between Huntelaar and Robben?
I haven’t seen anything, I have heard things, but they are fine. There is no problem.
Do you think this season has been unfair to you?
I am pleased with myself when I play well. I’m not if I don’t. I played well against Athletic and need to keep it up until the end of the season. I can say it was a good season if we win the league.
The Return of the Galacticos??
All the talks of Don Florentino is back. This time it isn’t about him bringing the likes of Kaka, Cristiano Ronaldo, Frank Ribery and Leo Messi when he comes to power, its about The Return of The Galacticos. Yes, believe it or not that is what they have all been talking about. Los Galacticos themselves!
With Raul and Casillas already in the team the first rumour was about the return of Roberto Carlos. Speaking to Spanish radio station Cadena Cop he said:
If Florentino comes and says ‘Roberto, come back’, I will have to think about it and talk about it. ‘I have never said I won’t come back. I renewed my deal here, I have another year on my contract, but a lot of things can happen. People know I have a really great admiration and respect for Florentino. Fenerbahce have given me the opportunity to be here 10, 15 years but I was at Real Madrid for 11 years and they will always be my team for life. If I said now that I didn’t want to go back I would be lying, but we have to wait and see who will come in with Florentino, what plans Florentino has.
I would return to Madrid to play, to be part of a group of champions. I would not return to play a bit-part role, I feel strong and if I had the chance to return to playing at the highest level, I would think about it. When you train well and you are motivated, everything is much easier. This season I have scored five goals in the league and three in the Turkish cup. I know that I can be at the top level for three more seasons. I feel strong. I want to continue playing and then I will think about coaching.
If that came as a shock to you, then listen to this. David Beckham could be subject to a remarkable summer transfer bid from Real Madrid, but only if Florentino Perez becomes the club’s next president. The Sun claims that in order to bring the England international back to the Bernabeu, Madrid would offer Los Angeles Galaxy £10m for Beckham, who turns 34 this May. The newspaper claims a top Madrid source said:
Florentino will try to bring Becks back if he decides to run for the presidency. It would be silly to deny it.
If these two can be lured back, getting Ronaldo from Corinthians would not be all that tough a job. He is playing there and is getting back to full fitness. The players left would be Zidane, Figo and Michael Owen.
Talking about Zidane, Corinthians director Mario Gobbi has played down reports the club are looking to lure Zinedine Zidane out of retirement. Reports have suggested that Corinthians are hoping to attract Zizou with the help of sponsors. Corinthians have already attracted Zidane’s former Madrid team-mate Ronaldo to the club. Gobbi said:
Zidane is an impossible dream, but so was Ronaldo. I believe that it will be difficult to make two impossible dreams come true in the same year.
If Zizou is coming back then he is coming only to Real Madrid. That I am 100 percent sure. Luis Figo meanwhile is planning to retire at the end of the season. But the return of Florentino Perez might just mean that he will have to postpone his retirement. And Michael Owen, he’s just in Newcastle.
Hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
How jobless are these tabloids!!!?!!!!
What is Perez becoming the president for? To destroy the club or to grow with it?!?
Even though I wouldn’t mind seeing all these Deities come back to play for Real Madrid, I think these rumours are utter rubbish!
The only thing the Galacticos should be called back is for taking up coaching roles at the club!
Nothing more or nothing less.
Lmao!
Para Siempre Blanco!
Hala Madrid!!
Just another Madridista
Press comments
Klaas-Jan Huntelaar scored another two goals on Sunday to bring his total to eight since joining Real Madrid. The Dutchman was the toast of the town for the Spanish press the following day.
PUBLICO
Huntelaar uses the same rule of three as Hugo Sanchez: Two balls, two goals.
EL MUNDO
The Dutchman is a predator who kills on first sight or takes advantage others’ carrion.
AS
Huntelaar the Hunter
Maximum effectiveness: Two chances and two goals. He’s on fire and has eight goals in six weeks.
MARCA & EL PAIS
The two periodicals emphasize Huntelaar’s average of one goal every 84 minutes.
La Razon
He’s responded with eight goals in six matches since Juande handed him a spot in the starting eleven.
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March 23, 2009 | Categories: Post-match Comments, Spanish Primera División | Tags: Estadio Santiago Bernabéu, Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, UD Almería | Leave A Comment »