Kaká Day
Born on 22 April 1982, married on 23 December 2005, Ballon d’Or winner on 2 December 2007, and today another memorable day for Ricardo Izecson Dos Santos Leite: 30 June 2009, the day Kaka was presented as the newest player of Real Madrid.
He was the first player signed following the arrival of new President Florentino Perez. On Tuesday at 20:30 CET, Madridismo will witness an event that is just the beginning of the new project fans have been clamoring about. It will be a huge party with thousands of spectators on hand at the Santiago Bernabeu to celebrate the arrival of Kaka.
Real Madrid’s new player flew in from South Africa, where on Sunday he was proclaimed champion of the Confederations Cup and named MVP of the tournament. Accompanied by his father, Kaka appeared with an ear to ear grin on his face. After a brief stop at the Mirasierra Suites Hotel, the footballer was taken to Sanitas La Moraleja Hospital, where at 9:30 he underwent a complete medical checkup.
Kaka’s first stop was Sanitas La Moraleja Hospital, where he arrived at 9:30 accompanied by his father. He underwent the required medical checkup including blood and urine samples, an electrocardiogram, an echo, an MRI, a thorough locomotor test and x-rays. “Today’s tests confirmed that the player is in perfect condition to play top-class football,” stated Carlos Diez, Chief of Real Madrid’s Medical Services.
Kaka was stunned by a large group of fans as he exited the hospital after his medical checkup. A swarm had gathered to welcome the new Madridista and express their support on such a special day. The player approached the fans to thank them and didn’t hesitate to sign autographs and take pictures. It was a nice gesture on behalf of the the footballer, who is already getting a good feel of the passion felt for his new team.
UNPRECEDENTED GLOBAL EXPECTATION
Thousands of fans will fill the stands of the Santiago Bernabeu to witness Kaka’s first steps as a Madridista. But also on hand for the presentation will be hundreds of media outlets from every corner of the planet in order to cover the event that has generated so much hype and expectation. Over 170 press agencies requested accreditation to cover the presentation of Kaka. Press agencies, sports newspapers, general newspapers, and radio and television stations from around the world will be reporting on the event.
SANTIAGO BERNABEU VISIT & FIRST INTERVIEW
After completing his medical, Kaka swung by the Santiago Bernabeu for his first look at his new stadium. With grand admiration the Brazilian looked over the pitch from the Presidential Balcony. Kaka expressed interest in the methods being used to lay the new turf and took the time to greet several club employees. Following a brief tour, Kaka sat down for his first interview with Realmadrid TV as a Madridista prior to having lunch in one of the Bernabeu’s restaurants with his father and Director General and Presidential Aide, Jorge Valdano.
REST AT THE HOTEL BEFORE THE PRESENTATION
After lunch, Kaka returned to his hotel to rest before the presentation, but a smile never left his face despite the exhaustion. He posed for the cameras of RealmadridTV and Realmadrid.com on the hotel terrace.
Kaka entered the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium for the second time today to sign his contract and be officially presented as the Club’s new player. The Brazilian met the Board Members prior to signing his contract in the Board Room. He also met Honorary President Alfredo di Stefano.
Kaka entered the Board Room at 19:45 to sign his contract with Real Madrid, which will keep him at the Club for six seasons. President Florentino Perez, Honorary President Alfredo di Stefano, Director General Jorge Valdano and the entire Board of Directors accompanied the Brazilian.
The moment we’ve all been waiting for finally happened. Surrounded by a spectacular backdrop, Kaka was unveiled as a Real Madrid player at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. Thousands of fans filled the stands for the first look at the Brazilian superstar. Kaka looked extremely appreciative for the confidence and affection shown.
With the presentation all wrapped up, Kaka held his first press conference in the press room of the Santiago Bernabeu. Jorge Valdano first commented that Fernando Gago decided to change his shirt for the number ’5′ to give number ’8′ to the Brazilian. In an extensive press conference, Kaka highlighted Real Madrid’s “sporting project.” He said it was a “privilege to play with players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Raul, Casillas and Guti” and that the team’s goal is to “recover the spotlight in Spain and Europe.”
South Africa 3-2 Spain
Spain claimed third place at the FIFA Confederations Cup 2009 with a dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory over host nation South Africa at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg.
Bafana Bafana had come within minutes of winning the game thanks to Katlego Mphela’s 73rd-minute opener, only for fellow substitute Daniel Guiza to find the net in both the 88th and 89th minute to leave the home fans shell-shocked. But up stepped Mphela again to thump home a free-kick from fully 35 yards in the third minute of added time and take the match into extra-time, when another set-piece from Xabi Alonso eluded everyone including home keeper Itumeleng Khune and finished in the back of the net.
South Africa fought hard to the end of a pulsating encounter, and exit the tournament knowing that a firm foundation has been laid for next year’s FIFA World Cup™ finals. They had opened their account when Mphela took full advantage of an excellent cross from Siphiwe Tshabalala from the left, recovering well from a poor first touch to fire high into the roof of Iker Casillas’ net. But with beanpole striker Fernando Llorente on as a substitute and giving Spain a focal point for their attacks, it freed up fellow sub Guiza to do what he does best: score goals.
The first came from Santi Cazorla’s ball into the centre of the penalty area, which Guiza did well to control before snapping off a low, hard shot past Khune and into the bottom corner. With the South Africans still in shock, Guiza received possession on the right-hand side of the area and looked to have been crowded out, before managing to make the space for a crafty lob with very little back-lift which flew over Khune and in off the inside of the far post.
There was still time for another twist, however, with Mphela’s brilliant 93rd-minute free-kick reigniting South Africa’s hopes and forcing an extra 30 minutes. Twice in the first half of extra-time Iker Casillas was called into action, first by Mphela who broke past the La Roja backline but was denied by the legs of the keeper, and then by Bernard Parker whose drilled shot from the edge of the box was tipped away expertly. The home side appeared to lose a little impetus from that point and paid dearly in the 107th-minute when a careless foul from Matthew Booth on Llorente gave Xabi Alonso the chance to curl in the winning goal.
For Spain, they will be able to take some consolation from on a spirited finish to a tournament many people had expected them to win. And despite their defeat, South Africa will have arguably taken much more from this competition. As well as successfully increasing public faith in coach Joel Santana, the emergence of cult heroes such as Booth, Parker, Mphela, Khune and Teko Modise, as well as gifted right-back Siboniso Gaxa and industrious midfielder Steven Pienaar, will no doubt work wonders for morale in the build up to next year’s finals.
Lineups:
Spain: Iker Casillas, Joan Capdevila, Raúl Albiol, Gerard Pique, Alvaro Arbeloa, Xabi Alonso, Albert Riera Ortega, Santiago Cazorla González, Sergi Busquets (Llorente 80′), Fernando Torres (Daniel Güiza 56′), David Villa (Silva 56′);
South Africa: Itumeleng Khune, Aaron Mokoena, Siboniso Gaxa, Matthew Booth, Tsepo Peter Masilela, Steven Pienaar (Katlego Mphela 65′), Macbeth Sibaya, Siphiwe Tshabalala (Benson Mhlongo 83′), Kagisho Evidence Dikgacoi, Teko Modise (Elrio van Heerden 69′), Bernard Parker
Goals:
1-0, m.73 – Katlego Mphela
1-1, m.87 – Daniel Güiza
1-2, m.88 – Daniel Güiza
2-2, m.90 – Katlego Mphela
3-2, m.114 – Xabi Alonso
Referee: Matthew Breeze
Booked: Sergi Busquets (38), Steven Pienaar (46), Gerard Pique (76), Tsepo Peter Masilela (108), Raúl Albiol (83), Katlego Mphela (77), Llorente (114)
Stadium: Real Bafokeng, Rustenburgo
Attendance:
Spain vs South Africa | FIFA Confederations Cup | Third Place Play-off | Preview
Joel Santana is adamant his South Africa side will not lack motivation when they face Spain in the Confederations Cup third-place play-off in Rustenburg.
The Bafana Bafana pushed defending champions Brazil all the way in the semi-final before being sunk by a Daniel Alves free-kick two minutes from time. Santana will lead his side against a Spain team reeling from their 2-0 shock loss to the United States, and the Brazilian coach is certain the hosts will continue to do their country proud. He said:
This is an important competition, so the motivation should be the same as it was in the first match. This is a preparation for the World Cup, so the players should be motivated to play against the big teams. I need them to play the same for me.
The two teams have already met once in the group stage, when Spain claimed a 2-0 win.But Santana is certain the clash at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium will be different, especially considering the strides his side have made over the past two weeks. He said:
This tournament was our first real test as a group, and we have seen what is possible. Spain may have lost, but they were one of the favourites coming in. They are a high level team, and we will be very careful against them. What is important is that we entered this tournament as an outsider and now we have earned some respect.
Defender Matthew Booth, one of several stand-out players against the Brazilians, added:
It will be nice to get a bronze medal.”We definitely have a good chance against Spain, because our performance against Brazil instilled enormous confidence into the team. The side is very confident and we are looking forward to the game.
Although still smarting from the shock loss to the US and an end to a record-breaking run, the Spaniards are keen to get back to winning ways tomorrow. According to Fernando Torres, who played a key part in helping his side to 35 matches unbeaten and a world-record 15 consecutive wins, the European champions will be looking to start from scratch against the hosts. The Liverpool striker said:
When you lose a game and you’ve got a lot of players who can barely remember the last time it happened, then it shows that you’re on the right track. In fact, I’d rather this happen now than at the 2010 World Cup. We have to go back to square one now and start putting some more wins together. I’d love us to go another 35 matches without losing. That would be great, especially with a World Cup in the middle.
Reflecting on the semi-final exit in Bloemfontein, he added:
I don’t think anyone can say we ever showed a lack of respect to our opponents. USA were the better side because they coped with the pressure we put on them and scored the goals. We’ll try to take something out of the game and improve. What hurts most is going out in the semi-finals of a big competition, not the end of the run. We knew that we couldn’t possibly win every single game from now to the end of our careers and that the run would have to come to an end some day. We just didn’t expect it to be here in South Africa, but that’s the way it is. These things happen when you least expect them.
Teams:
Spain: Iker Casillas, Diego Lopez, Pepe Reina; Raul Albiol, Gerard Pique, Carlos Marchena, Carles Puyol, Joan Capdevila, Sergio Ramos, Alvaro Arbeloa; Pablo Hernandez, Xavi, Cesc Fabregas, Sergio Busquets, Xabi Alonso, Santi Cazorla, Albert Riera, David Silva, Juan Mata; David Villa, Fernando Torres, Fernando Llorente, Daniel Guiza;
South Africa: Rowen Fernandez, Itumeleng Khune, Brian Baloyi; Siboniso Gaxa , Tsepo Masilela, Aaron Mokoena, Matthew Booth, Innocent Mdledle, Bryce Moon, Bongani Khumalo, Morgan Gould; Benson Mhlongo, MacBeth Sibaya, Lance Davids, Siphiwe Tshabalala, Steven Pienaar, Elrio van Heerden, Teko Modise, Kagisho Dikgacoi; Katlego Mphela, Bernard Parker, Thembinkosi Fanteni, Katlego Mashego;
Played at: Royal Bafokeng Stadium, Rustenburg.
Profile: Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro was born on 5 February 1985 in Funchal, Madeira, the youngest child of Maria Dolores dos Santos Aveiro and José Dinis Aveiro. His second given name, “Ronaldo,” was chosen after then-U.S. president Ronald Reagan, who was his father’s favourite actor. He has one older brother, Hugo, and two older sisters, Elma and Liliana Cátia.
CD Nacional
Ronaldo’s favourite boyhood team was Benfica. At the age of eight, he played for amateur team Andorinha, where his father was the kit man. In 1995, Ronaldo signed with local club CD Nacional, and, after a title-winning campaign, he went on a three-day trial with Sporting CP, who subsequently signed him for an undisclosed sum.
Sporting CP (2001-2003; 25 appearances; 3 goals)
Ronaldo joined Sporting’s other youth players who trained at the Alcochete, the club’s football academy. He became the only player ever to play for Sporting’s U-16, U-17, U-18, B-team, and first team, all within one season. He scored two goals in his Sporting debut against Moreirense, while featuring for Portugal in the UEFA Under 17 Championships.
When he was 15, Ronaldo was diagnosed with a racing heart, a condition that might have forced him to give up playing football. The Sporting staff were made aware of the condition and Ronaldo’s mother gave her authorisation for him to go into hospital. While there, he had an operation in which a laser was used to cauterise the area of his heart that was causing the problem. The surgery took place in the morning and Ronaldo was discharged from hospital by the end of the afternoon; he resumed training only a few days later.
He was first spotted by then-Liverpool manager Gérard Houllier at 16, but Liverpool declined to take him on because they decided he was too young and needed some time to develop his skills. However, he came to the attention of Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson in the summer of 2003, when Sporting defeated United 3–1 in the inauguration of the Estádio José Alvalade in Lisbon. Ronaldo’s performance impressed the Manchester United players, who urged Ferguson to sign him.
Manchester United (2003-2009; 196 appearances; 84 goals)
Ronaldo became Manchester United’s first-ever Portuguese player when he signed for £12.24 million after the 2002–03 season. He requested the number 28 (his number at Sporting), as he did not want the pressure of living up to the expectation linked to the number 7 shirt, which had previously been worn by players such as George Best, Bryan Robson, Eric Cantona, and David Beckham.
After I joined, the manager asked me what number I’d like. I said 28. But Ferguson said: ‘No, you’re going to have No. 7,’ and the famous shirt was an extra source of motivation. I was forced to live up to such an honour.
Ronaldo made his team debut as a 60th-minute substitute in a 4-0 home victory over Bolton Wanderers. He scored his first goal for Manchester United with a free kick in a 3–0 win over Portsmouth on 1 November 2003. He scored United’s thousandth Premier League goal on 29 October 2005 in a 4–1 loss to Middlesbrough. He scored ten goals in all competitions, and fans voted him to his first FIFPro Special Young Player of the Year award in 2005.
In November and December 2006, Ronaldo received consecutive Barclays Player of the Month honours, becoming only the third player in Premier League history to do so after Dennis Bergkamp in 1997 and Robbie Fowler in 1996. He scored his fiftieth career Manchester United goal against city rivals Manchester City on 9 December 2006 as United claimed their first Premier League title in four years, and he was voted into his second consecutive FIFPro Special Young Player of the Year award at the end of the year.
Despite rumours circulating in March 2007 that Real Madrid were willing to pay an unprecedented €80 million (£54 million) for Ronaldo, he signed a five-year, £120,000-a-week (£31 million total) extension with United on 13 April, making him the highest-paid player in team history.
Ronaldo was involved in several diving incidents during the 2006-07 campaign. He was criticised by manager Gareth Southgate for diving in a December 2006 match against Middlesbrough. On 4 February 2007, Ronaldo was again accused of diving in a match against Tottenham Hotspur when he won a penalty kick despite little contact from Tottenham winger Steed Malbranque. Despite the controversies, Ronaldo nonetheless amassed a host of personal awards for the season. He won the PFA Players’ Player of the Year and PFA Young Player of the Year awards, joining Andy Gray (in 1977) as the only players to receive this honour. In April, he completed the treble by winning the PFA Fans’ Player of the Year. Ronaldo was also one of seven Manchester United players named in the 2006–07 PFA Premier League Team of the Year.
On 5 June 2008, Sky Sports reported that Ronaldo had expressed an interest in moving to Real Madrid if they offered him the same amount of money the team had allegedly promised him earlier in the year. Manchester United filed a tampering complaint with FIFA on 9 June over Madrid’s alleged pursuit of Ronaldo, but FIFA declined to take any action. Speculation that a transfer would happen continued until 6 August, when Ronaldo confirmed that he would stay at Manchester for at least another year.
Ronaldo underwent ankle surgery at the Academic Medical Center in Amsterdam on 7 July. He returned to action on 17 September in United’s UEFA Champions League goalless group-stage draw with Villarreal as a substitute for Park Ji-Sung, and scored his first overall goal of the season in a 3–1 League Cup third round win over Middlesbrough on 24 September.
In a 5–0 win over Stoke City on 15 November 2008, Ronaldo scored his 100th and 101st goals in all competitions for Manchester United, both from free kicks. The goals also meant that Ronaldo had now scored against each of the other 19 teams in the Premier League at the time. On 2 December, Ronaldo became Manchester United’s first Ballon d’Or recipient since George Best in 1968. He finished with 446 points, 165 ahead of runner-up Lionel Messi. He was awarded the Silver Ball after finishing with two goals as United won the Club World Cup on 19 December.
On 8 January 2009, Ronaldo was uninjured in a single-car accident in which he wrote off his Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano in a tunnel along the A538 near Manchester Airport. A breathalyzer test he gave to police officers at the scene was negative, and he attended training later that morning. Four days later, he became the first Premier League player ever to be named the FIFA World Player of the Year, in addition to being the first Portuguese player to win the award since Luís Figo in 2001.
Ronaldo scored his first Champions League goal of the season, and first since the final against Chelsea, in a 2–0 victory over Internazionale that sent United into the quarter-finals. In the second leg against Porto, Ronaldo scored a 40-yard game-winning goal as United advanced to the semi-finals. He later called it the best goal he had ever scored. Ronaldo participated in his second consecutive Champions League final, but made little impact in United’s 2–0 loss to Barcelona. He finished with 53 appearances in all competitions, which was four higher than the previous year, but scored sixteen fewer goals (26) than his career-best total of 42 from the previous season.
On 11 June, Manchester United accepted an unconditional offer of £80 million from Real Madrid for Ronaldo after it was revealed that he again had expressed his desire to leave the club. It was confirmed by a representative of the Glazer family that the sale was fully condoned by Ferguson.
On 26 June 2009, Real Madrid confirmed that Ronaldo would join the club on 1 July 2009, after agreeing terms and signing a six-year contract. It is believed that Ronaldo’s contract will be worth €13 million a season and it will have a €1 billion buy-out clause.
Portugal (2003-present; 64 appearances; 22 goals)
Ronaldo earned his first cap for Portugal in a 1-0 victory against Kazakhstan in August 2003. He was called up for Euro 2004, scoring in a 2-1 group stage loss to eventual champions Greece and in a 2-1 semifinal win over the Netherlands. He was named in the team of the tournament despite finishing with only two goals. That same year, he also represented Portugal at the 2004 Summer Olympics.
Ronaldo was the second-highest scorer in FIFA World Cup qualification in the European zone with seven goals, and scored his first and only World Cup goal against Iran with a penalty kick.
During a quarter-final match against England on 1 July 2006, Ronaldo’s United teammate Wayne Rooney was sent off for stomping on Portugal defender Ricardo Carvalho. The English media speculated that Ronaldo had influenced referee Horacio Elizondo’s decision by aggressively complaining, after which he was seen in replays winking at the Portuguese bench following Rooney’s dismissal. After the match, Ronaldo insisted that Rooney was a friend and that he was not pushing for Rooney to be sent off. On 4 July, Elizondo clarified that the red card was due to Rooney’s infraction and not the fracas between Rooney and Ronaldo that followed.
The angry reaction from the English press caused Ronaldo to consider leaving United, and he allegedly told Spanish sports daily Marca that he wished to move to Real Madrid. In response to the speculation, Ferguson sent Portuguese assistant manager Carlos Queiroz to speak to Ronaldo in attempt to change his mind, a sentiment that was shared by Rooney. Ronaldo stayed, and signed his new five-year extension in April 2007.
Ronaldo was booed during Portugal’s semifinal defeat to France, and missed out on the competition’s Best Young Player award due to a negative e-mail campaign from England fans. Though the online vote only affected the nomination process, FIFA’s Technical Study Group awarded the honor to Germany’s Lukas Podolski, citing Ronaldo’s behaviour as a factor in the decision.
One day after his twenty-second birthday, Ronaldo captained Portugal for the first time in a friendly against Brazil on 6 February 2007. This move was in honour of Portuguese Football Federation president Carlos Silva, who had died two days earlier. Portugal coach Luiz Felipe Scolari explained:
Mr. Silva asked me to make [Ronaldo] captain as a gesture… [he] is too young to be captain, but Mr. Silva asked me, and now he is no longer with us.
Ronaldo scored eight goals in Portugal’s UEFA Euro 2008 qualifying campaign, but finished with only one goal in the tournament as Portugal were eliminated in the quarter-finals by Germany. Since the appointment of new Portuguese coach Carlos Queiroz, Ronaldo has been named the new captain of the squad.
Honours
- Premier League: 2006–07, 2007–08, 2008–09
- FA Cup: 2003–04
- League Cup: 2005–06, 2008–09
- FA Community Shield: 2007
- UEFA Champions League: 2007–08
- FIFA Club World Cup: 2008
Individual
- UEFA Euro 2004 Team of the Tournament
- FIFPro Special Young Player of the Year: 2004–05, 2005–06
- Portuguese Footballer of the Year: 2006–07
- UEFA Team of the Year: 2003–2004, 2006–07, 2007-08
- FIFPro World XI: 2006–07, 2007–08
- PFA Young Player of the Year: 2006–07
- PFA Players’ Player of the Year: 2006–07, 2007–08
- PFA Fans’ Player of the Year: 2006–07, 2007–08
- PFA Premier League Team of the Year: 2005–06, 2006–07, 2007–08, 2008–09
- FWA Footballer of the Year: 2006–07, 2007–08
- Barclays Player of the Season: 2006–07, 2007–08
- Barclays Player of the Month: November 2006, December 2006, January 2008, March 2008
- Barclays Golden Boot: 2007–08
- Barclays Merit Award: 2007–08
- European Golden Shoe: 2007–08
- UEFA Club Forward of the Year: 2007–08
- UEFA Club Footballer of the Year: 2007–08
- FIFPro World Player of the Year: 2007–08
- Ballon d’Or: 2008
- FIFA World Player of the Year: 2008
- FIFA Team of the Year: 2008
- Officer of the Order of Infante Dom Henrique
- Medal of Merit, Order of the Immaculate Conception of Vila Viçosa (House of Braganza)
Ronaldo wrote an autobiography about his life up until 2007. This was entitled Moments and was published on 15 December 2007. Along with one of his sisters, Ronaldo opened a fashion boutique under the name “CR7″ (comprising his initials and shirt number). There are currently only two CR7 store locations open, both of which are in Portugal, one being in Lisbon and the other in Madeira.
Cristiano Ronaldo becomes a Madridista!
It might have been done anytime between a year and a day but now it is OFFICIAL. Cristiano Ronaldo has penned a six year deal with Real Madrid.
The official statement on the Club’s website read:
Real Madrid CF and Manchester United have signed the definitive agreement for the transfer of Cristiano Ronaldo to the Spanish club on 1 July.
The deal is rumored to be worth £80 million thus becoming the biggest deal ever in the history of football. Real now have made three of the biggest signings in world football with two coming this season alone. Alls well that ends well.
He now becomes the fourth official signing following Kaka, Raul Albiol and Alvaro Negredo and will be presented on the 6th of July.
Para Siempre Blanco!
Hala Madrid!!
Javier Saviola transferred to SL Benfica
No big surprise. The only question was where. Javier Saviola has finally left Real Madrid to have a better career at Benfica. He is the second player named Javier in as many seasons to move to Benfica from Real (Javier Balboa moved last season).
The official statement:
Real Madrid CF has reached an agreement with Sport Lisboa e Benfica for the transfer of Javier Saviola. The Club wants to thank the player for his work and wishes him to be successful in this new stage in his career.
With Negredo’s arrival it was inevitable. More on Negredo soon.
Para Siempre Blanco!
Hala Madrid!!
Sergio Ramos to EFE
In an interview to EFE, Sergio Ramos was self-critical with his performance in the Spain-USA semifinal of the Confederations Cup.
You must be disappointed about not reaching the final with Spain.
These things happen in sport. I felt comfortable in the semifnal, but I made a mistake after I had chances on goal. Everything would have been different if I had scored. I was unlucky, but I must move on and work hard.
You were playing very well in the Confederations Cup.
I was happy with my performances and with how fit I felt, but then I made a mistake.
Why didn’t you clear the ball?
I honestly didn’t notice I had an opponent behind me when I controlled the ball. It was a mistake, but I’ll use it to improve. I don’t like to simply clear the ball without thinking about where I’m sending it, but I also know a defender has to be decisive, especially inside his own box.
Why did you control the ball inside the opponent’s box when you could have just shot on target?
Because Riera’s cross deflected on a defender. It was harder to just shoot. I decided to control the ball, but a centre back intercepted it.
Your contributions in attack draw criticism towards your defensive duties.
I respect everybody’s criticism as long as it centres on sport. I don’t like personal criticism or persecution. People change their opinion on the team when a defeat like yesterday’s takes place. I can only do my best on the pitch. No one can criticise me for not trying my best.
You’ve looked happier and more open recently. When did you decide to make a change?
You always learn from the good moments you have, but you learn even more from the bad ones. I had many in a very short time and they helped me think about stuff and make a change. I hope to keep it up until I retire.
Did you need the atmosphere on the national team to feel happy?
I’ve always been happy on a personal level. Everyone who knows me knows I’m always happy.
Is it hard to come to grips with fame when you are so young?
A professional football player always aspires to be what we are now. I am proud of being a role model for kids that train to become footballers someday. I accept what I am for better and for worse.
Are you excited about the new Real Madrid?
I don’t have enough words to thank the current President because he was the one who signed me and changed my life. The fans are excited about the project. There will be signings throughout the summer and Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaka are world stars that will do much for the team. People will talk about us and we will win many titles.
You were Florentino Perez’s first Spanish signing. He’s now signed Raul Albiol.
I am very happy for him because he is a fantastic player and a great guy. He is going to help out a lot. He is one of the most humble players I know. This is a reward for everything he went through after his accident. His efforts at Getafe and Valencia put him where he is right now. He is a fast centre back that knows exactly where he should be at all times.
How will Cristiano Ronaldo fit in the squad?
There will be no trouble. I’ve talked to former team-mates of his and they all say he is a normal guy that makes a difference. We will help him adapt quickly to the team.
Profile: Raúl Albiol
Raúl Albiol Tortajada was born on September 4, 1985, in Vilamarxant, Valencia. Albiol’s father Miguel was a famous player for modest Benidorm CD. Whilst his father still had contacts at Benidorm, the son joined the side’s under-9 and in a friendly match against Valencia CF he played impressively, signing on trial with the Spanish first division side. He made his first team debut on September 24, 2003, in a UEFA Cup first-round contest against AIK Stockholm, but spent the first year still registered with the B side.
Getafe (2004-2005; 17 appearances; 1 goal)
In August 2004, whilst on route to sign a deal to join Getafe CF on loan, Albiol was involved in a serious car accident and ended up in intensive care. He managed to recover completely and, after reappering in January, played a very important part in the Madrid side’s successful campaign against top flight relegation; making his first division debut on January 15, 2005, in a 1–1 home draw with Atlético de Madrid, he scored against another side from the capital, Real Madrid, in a 2–1 home triumph, two months later.
Valencia (2004-2009; 109 appearances; 3 goals)
Albiol then returned the following season to Valencia, and quickly established himself as first-choice, whether as a central defender or a holding midfielder. In the opening game of the 2006–07′s league campaign, he scored the winner (his only goal of the season) against Real Betis, as the game finished 2–1. He also netted a screamer against Olympiacos FC of Greece on September 12, 2006, in the UEFA Champions League, which Valencia won 4–2 away.
Spain (2007-present; 17 appearances)
After having represented the under-21s, Albiol first appeared for the main squad on October 13, 2007, in an Euro 2008 qualifier against Denmark (3–1 away win). In the competition’s final stages, he appeared twice for the eventual continental champions, against Sweden (subbing in for injured Carles Puyol) and Greece.
New national team coach Vicente Del Bosque included Albiol in the squad for the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup in South Africa. He started in Spain’s first game, partnering Puyol in central defense ahead of club mate Carlos Marchena, in a 5-0 defeat of New Zealand.
Personal life
Albiol is the second of three brothers, Miguel, born 1981 and Brian.
Honours
Valencia:
- UEFA Cup: 2003–04
- Spanish Cup: 2007–08
Spain:
- UEFA European Championship: 2008
- UEFA U-19 Championship: 2004
Raúl Albiol becomes a Madridista!
Raúl Albiol is officially a Madridista. Yes. OFFICIAL. So official that a statement on our club’s website read:
Real Madrid and Valencia have reached a deal for the transfer of Raul Albiol, which will take effect next week following the mandatory physical and signing of the contract by the player. The 23-year old has agreed to a five-year contract and will be presented next week.
The fee is said be around the region of 15 million euros and his salary is said be around 1.8 million a year. He now becomes the second official signing of the new era.
Albiol is considered to be one of the best center backs in Spain. He is young, quick and is an Spanish International who won the European Championships in 2008. According to reports from Spain he had the highest priority amongst Pellegrini’s defensive reinforcements. Arbeloa too is said to be close behind. We will have to wait on that though.
Para Siempre Blanco!
Hala Madrid!!
The Spanish tinge to Real Madrid
Note: Spain lost to the U.S.A. You can read the match report which is right below this post. I am on the verge of tears. If I talk anymore about the defeat I will cry. So I shall zip up about Spain and all the talk shall be about Real Madrid alone.
Hello,
It has been quite a decent day at the transfer market for us. There are quite a few rumors on hand right now. And I must say that they are good ones. Good as in good for the club not the ‘Stephen Lichensteiner is wanted by Real Madrid’ kind. OK. Time to kick-off.
Raul Albiol has been signed by Real Madrid. The actual signature nor the medical hasn’t taken place but MARCA reports that Valencia and Real Madrid have agreed upon a deal worth around 15 million euros which sees the young Spaniard play the next five seasons at the Bernabeu if alls well. It also says that a week long negotiation has been going on between the two clubs and that the deal is finally complete. The player though is yet to comment as he is away on international duty with the Spanish national team. If all has happened as reported then Albiol will be the second Spaniard to be signed by Florentino following Sergio Ramos (in his previous stint as President) and his third acquisition of his current spell. Both AS and MARCA had earlier said that Albiol was close to signing for Real Madrid and this news comes in as a little less of a surprise. There are no official statements out from either camp yet.
One other Spaniard who just might wear white next season is Alvaro Arbeloa. The versatile full-back who is currently plying his trade with Liverpool is being rumored to be on the verge of signing for Real Madrid. With Liverpool signing Glen Johnson this week and with only one year left in the player’s contract it was said that his agent was in Madrid to conduct talks with the Bernabeu officials. Arbeloa welcomes the transfer talk and concedes that it is not certain he will be plying his trade with Liverpool next season. He said:
I am especially proud of what the club is doing. It is a big project with the return of Florentino (Perez) – and obviously if Madrid is fixed on you it makes you proud.
Arbeloa added in Marca:
I would be lying if I said I was sure to start the season with Liverpool. I’ll be able to think about all this by next Monday.
We have also been linked with Liverpool’s midfield pair of Javier Mascherano and Xabi Alonso. The Argentine is flattered about the rumors linking him with us and Barcelona. He has been tipped to join the Camp Nou outfit this summer while his representative, Walter Tamer, is understood to have jetted to Catalunya to hold talks last week. But it is Alonso on whom we are keen on. Valdano while speaking to AS said:
We have possibilities there but I don’t want to say anything that will make the negotiation more difficult. We will wait a reasonable amount of time.
Valdano had a few words to say about Arbeloa as well. He added:
The lad only has a year left on his contract with Liverpool and this gives us more possibilities. He can play in two or three positions and this versatility is good. He is another option to evaluate.
The arrival of Arbeloa and Alonso could spell the exits of one Gabriel Heinze, who admitted that he would consider moving back to the Premier League if we are looking at selling him. Liverpool, Chelsea and Tottenham are the clubs which are said to be interested in him. Please take him. I beg you. Continuing with England, there is a rumor about Michael Essien saying he would find it tough to resist a move to Real Madrid. The arrival of either Xabi or Essien would spell the exit of Rafael van der Vaart who might just go back to where he came from, HSV, only after a year that too. At least that is what MARCA says. But this they’ve been saying for ages.
One player who is definitely staying is Iker Casillas. He was behind the microphone of Al Primer Toque, where he made it very clear that his future is with Real Madrid following reports linking him with Manchester United.
I am very happy at Real Madrid and thrilled with the project. I have no intention of leaving. I was raised at Real Madrid and it is where I want to be. I worked hard to reach the first team and have been here for ten years now.
The long wait to decide the future of Franck Ribery could soon be over after the player’s agent revealed that the Frenchman wants to sign for Real Madrid. Ribery has his pick of Europe’s top clubs this summer, but appears set on a move to the Bernabeu. This is some fantastic news. I will wait till I hear more on this.
But he isn’t the only Frenchman who wants to be come to Real. With having ended the David Villa pursuit Real were planning to spend the money that Valencia was supposed to get on Lyon’s Karim Benzema, who has been a target for sometime now. However, the French striker will prove to be a difficult target for Perez and co. Lyon have insisted that they will keep hold of Benzema, but their statements have always ended with a ‘but anything is possible’. president Jean-Michel Aulas said:
Karim has long expressed his desire to remain with Olympique Lyonnais. The club wants him to stay and restructure around him. Now it’s true that the transfer market is very surprising and the news from Real, Chelsea and Manchester United makes me very perplexed. No-one is in-transferable, but knowing Karim, if he did leave, it would be to Real Madrid. For the moment, we are not talking about transferring Karim.
Benzema is valued at €40 million, with rumours indicating that Lyon would have to take on a cash-plus-player deal Arjen Robben or Klaas-Jan Huntelaar. BOLLOCKS!
Fiorentina are believed to be keen on signing Dutchman Royston Drenthe, initially on loan for a season with the option of a permanent deal at the end of the 12 months. His agent Ernesto Bronzetti claims Real would be happy to let Drenthe leave, but only for a considerably higher fee. He explained:
I had a chat with Pantaleo Corvino and he admitted he wants Drenthe. They want to loan him and then buy him for £6m. Real Madrid are OK with the loan but they would like more money for the permanent transfer.
Bronzetti also warned Fiorentina they could face competition for Drenthe, who has been linked with Genoa and Tottenham. He said:
Royston is young and talented. Perhaps he is Real Madrid’s most wanted player so Fiorentina will have to make an effort to buy him.
BOLLOCKS again!
One person who has left officially is Julen Lopetegui. He has been fired by Real Madrid as the coach of Real Madrid Castilla. An official announcement on the club’s website read:
Real Madrid CF wishes to announce that it has reached a deal with Julen Lopetegui for the latter to leave the club. Lopetegui signed on in 2008/09 to coach Real Madrid Castilla, who he nearly led to the playoffs of Segunda Division B. Real Madrid would like to thank the coach for his services and expresses its best wishes for future success.
Away from transfers, the 30th edition of the Santiago Bernabeu Trophy will be contested by A.C.Milan. Yeah. It was confirmed on the official website here. I just can’t wait for that! I just can’t! Kaka versus Milan!
Oh yeah, there is a rumor or two about the prospective signing of either Godin or Gonzalo from Villareal. But nothing solid can be said about it yet.
I’ll post as soon as anything about the Albiol move comes out.
Till then,
Para Siempre Blanco!
Hala Madrid!!
Spain 0-2 United States of America
USA caused another sensation at the FIFA Confederations Cup South Africa 2009, beating European champions Spain 2-0 to book a place in their first-ever world final. The Spaniards controlled possession at Bloemfontein’s Free State Stadium, but the USA, losers of their first two games here in South Africa, played a brave and spirited 90 minutes in freezing temperatures, pulling off a historic victory with goals in each half from Jozy Altidore and Clint Dempsey.
Bob Bradley’s side made a lively start to proceedings, surging into attack early against their illustrious adversaries. Young Charlie Davies, rewarded with a second straight start by the coach in attack, was causing havoc at the Spanish back. His audacious overhead volley nearly caught out Iker Casillas before bouncing wide in the seventh minute. Carlos Bocanegra, back in the team and wearing the captain’s armband for the first time at these finals, went close shortly after with his head and Dempsey tried his luck from distance.After a slow start, though, the European champions began to assert themselves and take control of possession, Barcelona creator Xavi leading the way. Cesc Fabregas saw his shot in the 12th minute fly over the bar, while Fernando Torres and David Villa both went close to opening the scoring.
Despite Spain’s superior technique and pedigree, the ambitious, almost insolent, North Americans stole in and took the lead. After a lovely bit of interplay between Dempsey and Davies, Altidore shook off his former Villarreal team-mate Joan Capdevila to meet a fine through ball and slam home from 18 yards. Casillas got a palm to it, but the Real Madrid goalkeeper simply could not deal with the power in the strike.
The Spaniards continued to dictate the pattern as the half wore on. As the men in red chased their equaliser, Liverpool striker Fernando Torres was again denied, this time by a fine kick-save from Tim Howard with just seconds to go in the half.
Spain emerged from the changing rooms with renewed vigour, Villa turned brilliantly in the box after five minutes but Howard again was equal to the effort.
A bit of desperation looked to be creeping into the Spanish attack near the hour-mark. Villa, Torres and the ever-present Xavi were trying to force their way through an increasingly cohesive US rearguard, marshalled by giant centre-back Oguchi Onyewu. Last-ditch tackles and heroic blocks were coming to define the American resistance. Sergio Ramos slammed off the post in the 64th minute as Spain’s pressure was beginning to look irresistible. Bradley brought on midfielder Benny Feilhaber for striker Davies, hoping to shore things up with a little under half an hour to go.
Against the run of play, though, it was the Americans, not the Spaniards, who got the crucial goal. Clint Dempsey, fresh off scoring the third goal in the win over Egypt that saw the US through to this semi-final, took advantage of a rare error by Ramos to poke home an opportunistic goal from close range. The celebrations that followed were in perfect accord with the historic nature of the goal, and the eventual 2-0 victory over the reigning European champions and the world’s No.1 ranked team.
Lineups:
Spain: Casillas, Sergio Ramos, Capdevila, Pique, Puyol, Xavi, Fabregas (Santi Cazorla 68), Alonso, Riera (Mata 78), Torres, Villa.
USA: Howard, DeMerit, Spector, Bocanegra, Onyewu, Clark, Dempsey (Bornstein 88), Davies (Feilhaber 69), Donovan, Bradley, Altidore (Casey 84).
Goals:
0-1, m.27 – Altidore;
0-2, m.73 – Dempsey;
Referee: Jorge Larrionda (Uruguay)
Sent Off: Bradley (87).
Booked: Donovan, Altidore, Capdevila, Pique.
Played at: Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein
Attendance: 40,000
Spain vs United States of America | FIFA Confederations Cup | Semi-finals | Preview
Spain will attempt to claim another spot in the record books and clinch their place in the final of the Confederations Cup when they take on surprise qualifiers the United States in Bloemfontein.
The European champions have already broken one world record during their stint in South Africa, with Saturday’s 2-0 victory over the host nation not only seeing Spain progress through Group A with a 100% record but also extending their run of successive wins to 15. That saw them move one clear of Brazil, France and Australia, who all jointly held the former record along with the Spanish. Saturday’s win also extended Spain’s unbeaten run to 35 matches, drawing them level with Brazil’s world-leading mark that was set between between 1993 and 1996, and Vicente del Bosque`s side can take that record for their own tomorrow as well.
Spain are huge favorites to continue their remarkable form against a United States side that created a big stir in battling back from the brink to qualify from Group B, but midfielder Xabi Alonso is not taking anything for granted. Alonso, who was part of the Spain side that ground out a hard-fought 1-0 win over the US in a friendly last year, Xavi scoring the only goal 12 minutes from time, said:
If they are here it’s because they have deserved it. Before we went to the European Championships we played against them and it was not easy at all. They are going to wait for us, they will be together. Their approach will not be much different to that of Iraq or South Africa. We cannot think that it will be easy. They are a physically strong team, well organised and very rapid on the counter-attack. Also, they have players who play in the Premier League and we already know them.
If Spain get through then it could set up a mouth-watering final against mighty Brazil, who will play host nation South Africa in the other semi-final on Thursday after comfortably finishing top of Group B with three wins from three. Alonso admits that would be a special match but the Liverpool man is determined to take it one step at a time. He said in Marca:
It would be spectacular, but first we have the semi-final and then we’ll see. We cannot think of anything more than that.
Few expected the United States, who have lost all three of their previous meetings with Spain, to progress out of a group that included Brazil and Italy, especially after losing to both those sides in their opening two matches and conceding six goals in the process. However, Sunday’s 3-0 win over Egypt, combined with some favorable results in the other group games, left Bob Bradley’s side in second place in the pool, pipping Italy to a place in the last four thanks to having scored one more goal than the world champions.
The US will know they have their work cut out to make it through to the final though against a Spain side that has only conceded two goals in 13 matches since Del Bosque took charge last summer. Bradley believes they can cause an upset, though, saying:
We came up against Spain before Euro 2008 and we played a great game. We’ve been watching them during this tournament and we’ve been taking note of their style. We know how to stop them and we are very confident.
Teams:
Spain: Iker Casillas, Diego Lopez, Pepe Reina; Raul Albiol, Gerard Pique, Carlos Marchena, Carles Puyol, Joan Capdevila, Sergio Ramos, Alvaro Arbeloa; Pablo Hernandez, Xavi, Cesc Fabregas, Sergio Busquets, Xabi Alonso, Santi Cazorla, Albert Riera, David Silva, Juan Mata; David Villa, Fernando Torres, Fernando Llorente, Daniel Guiza;
U.S.A: Tim Howard, Brad Guzan, Luis Robles; Jonathan Bornstein, Carlos Bocanegra, Oguchi Onyewu, Heath Pearce, Marvell Wynne, Jay DeMerit, Danny Califf, Jonathan Spector; DaMarcus Beasley, Michael Bradley, Ricardo Clark,Sacha Kljestan, Freddy Adu, Jose Francisco Torres, Benny Feilhaber; Conor Casey, Clint Dempsey, Charlie Davies, Landon Donovan, Jozy Altidore;
Played at: Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein.
Ronaldo edges closer to a move & other stuff
Hola,
Let me get done with this fast cause I haven’t had my breakfast yet. I just sipped a cup of coffee and I am super hungry now. So here we go. We don’t have much to brag about today. I guess Valdano and Florentino have been on a holiday at least for the past week or so as we are being linked with the same players again and again and… wait for it… again. Ergo today we have more of genuine stuff than rumors. More of quotes than fantasies and more of sugar than spice. Lets get started with the post damnit!
Cristiano Ronaldo is on the verge of signing for Real Madrid. Well that has been the case for a year now. But this time, according to MARCA at least, he is just days away from being presented at the Presidential Balcony at the Bernabeu. Speaking to the press in Portugal, where he is on a holiday, Ronaldo revealed that although negotiations are still ongoing with Madrid, he is eager for his new life to begin at the Bernabeu.
As I’ve already said in every interview. Real Madrid is the club in which I’ve always wanted to play. It will be good to play with Kaka, a player who was the Ballon d’Or, the best in the world, but also with Raul, (Iker) Casillas and Guti. If I’m allowed, now I want to rest, because the negotiations are still not concluded. I want to start pre-season well, that’s what I really want. The truth is that I’m eager to start.
He added that he is still looking out for a house in Madrid and is eager to learn Spanish. He doesn’t know Spanish!?! Ronaldo also confirmed that he had undergone medical tests with Real, saying:
Everything went perfectly.
Ronaldo admitted that it may take him a while to adapt to life in La Liga after so long in England, but that he is confident of a successful switch. He also said that does not yet know what shirt number he will wear at Madrid or when he will be officially presented. I guess Ronaldo doesn’t read MARCA (not even when it is translated into Portuguese). It says that Cristiano will be presented on July 6.
The Spanish U21 team was knocked out of the UEFA U21 European Championship despite winning against Finland by a two goal margin. Amongst others representing the young La Roja squad is our very own Miguel Torres. The player in an interview with Realmadrid.com has said that he would return to pre-season training on time even if it would mean giving up on holidays. When asked whether it was normal for a person to give up on his holidays he replied saying:
I don’t know if it is or not, but that’s what I’m going to do. I haven’t been lucky enough to play in the Under-21 Euro yet, so I must think about my immediate future, which involves returning to Real Madrid in the pre-season. I will rejoin the team on 10 July, like many of my team-mates. I don’t want to miss a single minute.
That probably is because of Alvaro Arbeloa. According to MARCA the representative of Arbeloa is in Madrid. Now that Liverpool have signed Glen Johnson I am sure Arbeloa is looking for other options. Don’t blame him, anyone would prefer warming the Real Madrid bench to warming the Liverpool bench. Money people!
The reason behind Miguel Torres’ reply might also be Maicon. According to reports emanating from Spain, Inter sporting director Marco Branca held talks with Real Madrid executives last week. And Inter President Massimo Moratti brushed aside speculation that those negotiations involved Zlatan Ibrahimovic‘s possible transfer to the Bernabeu.
Branca’s trip to Madrid had already been fixed for some time and the reason was Maicon.
But what he also said was:
But Florentino Perez is not that interested in defenders, fortunately for us, because Maicon is one of the best in the world.
Classic Perez isn’t it? Not interested in defenders. Haha! One defender who is linked with us is Juan of the AS Roma fame. The player himself later denied it.
In other news, Real’s first pre-season friendly will be against Shamrock Rovers from West Dublin which, if all goes well, would be the debut of both Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaka. Talking about Kaka he has suggested that Andrea Pirlo could be joining him at the Bernabeu. But that I am sure he meant it to be a joke.
Another Real Madrid player at the Confederations Cup who has been speaking is Iker Casillas. Amongst other things he spoke about how only the best can play for Real Madrid.
I think it’s fantastic to sign great players because the best should play for Real Madrid. Such an amount of money was paid in the past for men like Zidane, who was an amazing player and a great person. The same goes for Beckham. I don’t know Kaka, but I’m told he is a great guy and that’s important.
Talking about Iker Casillas, Realmadrid.com rubbished the rumor that Man United are trying to sign our Saint.
Sergio Ramos too took time to speak to Cuatro about Spain reaching the semi-finals where they will face the U.S of A.
We are happy with the situation we’re living on the Spanish national team. We are concentrating on the Confederations Cup and we’ll fight to reach the final. We have deep respect for USA, just like for any other team, but we’ll try to play as well as we’ve done so far to be in the final.
With that the post ends. I shall post the preview for the Spain game by tonight or tomorrow morning.
Till then,
Para Siempre Blanco!
Hala Madrid!!
36, 42, 27, 194, 185…
Morning all,
I’m sure the title of this post caught your eye as you saw it. If thats the case then its job is done. I remember when I was in my 8th standard (not Grade, We don’t call it grade here in India) I remember this guy who took a few classes to help us with our public speaking skills. The first thing he said were a few random numbers which no one understood as to why he was doing so. And it was then that he said “It caught your attention didn’t it? That’s the secret behind public speaking.” and the rest was all blah blah and more of blah to me as I went back to what I was actually doing. What a loser!
Anyhoo, moving on to the post itself, it has been a dull weekend with all the people involved in the transfer market spending time with their families, girlfriends or all alone. Spain played South Africa and won on Saturday snatching the World record for most consecutive wins which Brazil held for quite some time now. Brazil beat Italy comprehensively last night knocking them out of the tournament. At their expense the team that went into the semi-finals to meet Spain was the U.S.A who beat Egypt 3-0.
The Transfer Market itself has been quite dull lately. The David Villa saga is still going on. Xabi Alonso and Karim Benzema are being linked with us just for the heck of it. All the dutch starlets are linked with a move away from the club along with Fernando Gago. And we are planning to swoop both maico and hell Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
On Friday Valencia’s president Manuel Llorente declared that David Villa will not be sold in this transfer window. Manuel Llorente has said that since there aren’t any good offers currently David Villa will probably continue his career at the Mestalla next season but that would be the case only if there aren’t any amazing offers.
Llorente said:
We have taken the decision to not sell David Villa. We’ve taken this decision after some days of thought in which we studied the advantages and disadvantages. We think David Villa is the best striker in Europe and we have the fortune to have him in our team and we are going to fight to keep him.
Gaizka Mendieta, a few years ago, too was almost assured of playing in Real Madrid when Valencia blocked his transfer to the Santiago Bernabeu. Instead it was to Rome that he went to don the colors of Lazio who paid a record sum at that time to gain the midfielder’s services. Ofcourse he went and ruined his career there. Valencia, according to reports from Spain, are supposedly doing the same thing here. Llorente though insists the current move is not a ploy either, saying:
It’s not a strategy, but to avoid all the rumours. Because they affect Valencia, the media and the player. We have to be calm and think about the project. When we talked of selling it was because we thought that some players could bring in a lot of money, like Villa. But it’s not been like that.
Llorente did admit though that the decision taken by Valencia does not necessarily guarantee Villa will still be at the Mestalla next season.
I cannot say that because there could arrive an amazing offer.
The striker’s agent, Jose Luis Tamargo, said:
They [Valencia] have put us through a situation that is, sadly, very unpleasant because this is no good for anyone. Valencia have changed their minds and they are telling us they don’t want to sell the player after, as everyone knows, having talks with three of the four top clubs.
The player himself is unsure of his club future but he insisted that he wouldn’t let this uncertainity affect Spain‘s Conferderations Cup campaign. But one thing is for sure, Villa will remain in Spain, is atleast what his Fernando Torres thinks.
One other Spaniard who is linked with Real Madrid is Xabi Alonso. The Telegraph and The Daily Express reported that Xabi might be on his way out of Liverpool. But on Sunday the player himself said that he is not planning on leaving the club this summer. But then according to The Mirror Chelsea have joined the £18million race to grab Xabi Alonso.
Karim Benzema too has been linked with us. Jean-Michel Aulas hinted that he could be powerless to keep Benzema from leaving Lyon. But The Telegraph insists that Karim Benzema will not leave Lyon before the next World Cup.
Manchester United are rumored to make an offer that Real can’t refuse for Iker Casillas. Well, forget Iker Casillas, WE WON”T SELL A VIRUS TO THAT MOB.
Fernando Gago is worth 20 million euros apparently and Juve are interested. Read this.
Going Dutch, according to The Daily Star, Ruud van Nistelrooy wants his Dutch compatriots to move on if they do get a chance. Hahahahaha!
Royston Drenthe is linked with a move to Italy to Fiorentina but ON LOAN which is really really good. NOTW says that Aston Villa have lost the race to sign the Dutch youngster and are now onto Jurado.
The Guardian has an article that says Real Madrid have warned Arjen Robben that they are prepared to leave him out of their squad next season if he refuses to leave the club this summer whereas The Dutchman himself is not keen to leave the Santiago Bernabéu (which is wonderful to hear as we will need him). As to the whole banishing thing: BULLOCKS!
Another Dutchman who doesn’t want to leave Real is Wesley Sneijder. Speaking to AS he said:
I have no intention of leaving Real Madrid. Nobody called me to speak about that and what I want to do is stay at Madrid because I battled hard to join this club and being successful in this shirt is my aim. No doubt about it. I am pretty much relaxed and cannot wait to get back to work. Playing alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka or Franck Ribery is an honour for every player.
Does that mean Ribery is in?
There is another rumor that says Frank Rijkaard wanting Klaas-Jan Huntelaar to link up with him in Turkey. Bullocks again.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic is desperate to leave Inter and to move to Real Madrid, is what Marca says. According to Marca, negotiations are going on between Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Real Madrid. Inter in return want Mahamadou Diarra, Sneijder, Robben and Higuaín. And I want to whip Massimo Morati’s arse all around Milan. Personally I am no believer of Ibracadabra. I don’t like his attitude. We already have Ronaldo to do the tricks. We don’t need the Swede. But if I am proved wrong…
According to Corriero dello Sport, Marco Branca, the technical director of Inter Milan, is in Madrid to discuss the possible transfer of the Brazilian full-back Maicon. Why do we need a right sided player again?
And about someone who will surely wear Real Madrid colors next season in Cristiano Ronaldo, The Mail says that Cristiano Ronaldo’s contract dispute with Real Madrid is understood to have been resolved which means the record deal will be completed soon. Cristiano Ronaldo has admitted that he made up his mind to leave Manchester United last summer. And according to The Mirror Sergio Ramos and co. are OK with Ronaldo’s wages.
And finally Vicente Del Bosque speaks about Raul‘s possible return into the Spanish National Team.
Thats it. End of post. More from me soon.
Para Siempre Blanco!
Hala Madrid!!
P.S: Our kit for next season has been released. The serigraphy on the shirts have also changed.
South Africa 0-2 Spain
Spain march on to the semi-finals with an unblemished record after goals from David Villa and Fernando Llorente secured a 2-0 victory over South Africa to extend La Roja’s record winning streak. Yet there were celebrations on all sides in Manguang/Bloemfontein as New Zealand’s goalless draw with Iraq ensured the hosts will join the European champions in the last four.
Much had been made in the build-up to this match that a draw would suit both sides, but it was clear from the outset that Spain were interested in nothing but a 15th straight victory. Seizing the initiative from the first whistle, Vicente Del Bosque’s side nearly took the lead in stunning style when Albert Riera’s ferocious 35-yard drive was acrobatically tipped over by Itumeleng Khune after just four minutes.
A pattern of Spanish dominance had been established, and the European champions’ incisive possession football replaced the deafening roar inside Free State stadium with a nervous hush. Teko Modise had the opportunity to re-enliven the atmosphere after 18 minutes when the hosts won a promisingly-placed free-kick, but the midfielder curled a disappointing effort well over from 22 yards.
The most threatening attacks continued to be directed towards Khune’s goal and, as half-time approached, Booth was forced to scramble the ball behind for a corner after Torres had skipped through on to a Fabregas through ball and forced Khune into a smart save. At the other end, Steven Pienaar was performing admirably in providing his team-mates with shooting opportunities, but a general over-eagerness in South Africa’s play manifested itself in two wayward finishes from Modise and Bernard Parker.
A moment of individual brilliance looked to be Bafana Bafana’s best hope of securing a result at this stage, and Khune provided them with just that when he pulled off an incredible double save to deny Spain. The first instalment came when the South Africa No1 threw himself to the left to push away a David Villa penalty after Cesc Fabregas had been felled inside the box, while the second witnessed him hold Carles Puyol’s well-struck rebound.
Villa’s immediate reaction was to hold his head in his hands but, rather than sulk, the Valencia striker provided the perfect riposte just seconds later. Danger appeared minimal when Riera lofted a delicate pass into the box, but in one, lithe movement, Villa controlled the ball on his chest, swivelled and somehow directed a precise left-foot shot just inside the far post.
South Africa attempted to respond, but they lacked a cutting edge and when Spain substitute Fernando Llorente stuck out his right boot to convert Fabregas’s mis-hit shot, they were left to anxiously await news from Johannesburg. When that news came, celebrations began that will last long into the night and beyond.
Lineups:
Spain: Pepe Reina, Carles Puyol, Raúl Albiol, Gerard Pique, Alvaro Arbeloa, Xavi, Cesc Fábregas, Albert Riera (Santi Cazorla 80′), Sergi Busquets, Fernando Torres (Llorente 59′), David Villa (Pablo Hernandez 59′);
South Africa: Itumeleng Khune, Aaron Mokoena, Siboniso Gaxa, Matthew Booth, Tsepo Peter Masilela, Steven Pienaar, Macbeth Sibaya (Katlego Mashego 80′), Kagisho Evidence Dikgacoi, Teko Modise, Benson Mhlongo, Bernard Parker (Siphiwe Tshabalala 90′);
Goals:
0-1, min.51 – Villa
0-2, min.71 – Llorente
Stadium: Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein.
Referee: Pablo Pozo.
South Africa vs Spain | FIFA Confederations Cup | Group Stages | Preview
Aaron Mokoena is expecting a tough game for South Africa when they come up against Spain in their final Group A game.
The Bafana Bafana captain and his team are riding high after beating New Zealand 2-0 in their previous game, but still need a point in Bloemfontein to make certain of their qualification. Bernard Parker was the hero against the All Whites, with his brace securing the win which lifted the host nation into second place on four points, two behind the Spaniards and three clear of Iraq.
Defender Mokoena warned of Spain:
They’re a team packed with great players all over the field. We know it will be a difficult match for us, but I think it will be difficult for them too. We play similar football but they have the experience over us. However, in saying that, we will be very determined and will throw everything at them.
Defeat for Joel Santana’s team at the Free State Stadium, coupled with an Iraqi win over New Zealand, would leave both teams on four points, meaning the final outcome could go down to goal difference, where the South Africans are currently ahead with plus two to minus one. If the Asian champions fail to win, a draw or even defeat will be enough.
Parker, who was clearly the star man in the previous game, is confident they can qualify for the last four, adding:
Spain are the best team in the world, the European champions and the tournament favourites. We know they’ve got some big stars, but that’s not going to make us nervous, anything but. We’re going to raise our game and be even more confident. I’m sure we’re going to do it.
Spain, who are expected to give several of their fringe players a chance, will be keen on winning and have two world-records in sight that are sure to act as further motivation. La Roja will be looking for a 15th consecutive international victory after their win against Iraq moved them to 14 – the same number as Brazil, Australia and France – with the other incentive being a 35th match unbeaten. The last time they lost was in November 2006 and if they avoid defeat, Vicente del Bosque’s men will draw them level with Brazil, who set the mark between 1993 and 1996.
The coach said:
Now that we’ve qualified it means that I can make some changes. “But winning is still the most important thing, which is what we’ll try to do. When things are going this well, you don’t change the structure too much. We will give some different players a chance, but as I said, the priority is to win.
Asked whether he had a preferred team to play in the semi-final with Brazil, Italy and Egypt all in contention, he added:
It doesn’t bother me. You have to respect all the teams and they’ll all come with their own difficulties.
Group B will be decided on Sunday.
Teams:
Spain: Iker Casillas, Diego Lopez, Pepe Reina; Raul Albiol, Gerard Pique, Carlos Marchena, Carles Puyol, Joan Capdevila, Sergio Ramos, Alvaro Arbeloa; Pablo Hernandez, Xavi, Cesc Fabregas, Sergio Busquets, Xabi Alonso, Santi Cazorla, Albert Riera, David Silva, Juan Mata; David Villa, Fernando Torres, Fernando Llorente, Daniel Guiza;
South Africa: Rowen Fernandez, Itumeleng Khune, Brian Baloyi; Siboniso Gaxa , Tsepo Masilela, Aaron Mokoena, Matthew Booth, Innocent Mdledle, Bryce Moon, Bongani Khumalo, Morgan Gould; Benson Mhlongo, MacBeth Sibaya, Lance Davids, Siphiwe Tshabalala, Steven Pienaar, Elrio van Heerden, Teko Modise, Kagisho Dikgacoi; Katlego Mphela, Bernard Parker, Thembinkosi Fanteni, Katlego Mashego;
Played at: Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein.
All that I can see is €, more of € and so much more of €
Yet another drowsy morning to yo’ all.
It was a drowsy night. The Spanish u21 team lost to the English u21 in the u21 European championships in Sweden. Whereas Kaka led Brazil to a 3-0 victory over 10-man U.S.A and Italy lost to Egypt. It was drowsy alright. Not the games but the night itself.
And in terms of Real Madrid it was drowsy as well. Not much in the news except for some hope, some accusations and a lot of money which is why All that I can see is €, more of € and so much more of €. Anyhoo, there isn’t much to talk about today. Franck Ribery, if he moves, will end up playing here, but he will cost us a lot of €. Don Perez says its only a question of when David Villa signs for us, so it means more of €. And according to the Daily Mail Cristiano Ronaldo moans “I want more! £200,000-a-week at Real Madrid is just NOT enough” which means so much more of €. But then again the English press is just whining becasue they’ll miss torturing him but still ending up writing The Best player in the World is playing a few miles away from where I am writing this load of bollocks.
We all know that we are targeting Franck Ribery. Zidane wants him here and he says “so does Perez” which means only one thing. He’ll be here alright. And that is what The Sun says as well. The Sun reports that Manchester United and Chelsea have launched bids for the services of the Frenchman who is currently plying his trade at Bayern Munich. But what it also says is that Real Madrid are poised to put one over the might of English football again after emerging as favorites with a huge £70million offer.
Bayern though had said on Wednesday that Ribery was not for sale. But Zidane has revealed that we have not been put off by Bayern’s stance. He told Le Parisien:
The discussions are on the right track. Even if I am not at Madrid today, there are meetings on this matter at the moment. Personally, I am for Ribery coming to Madrid and I will do everything to make that happen. It’s my wish as much as that of the club’s president.
The club have, meanwhile, denied media reports suggesting they have faxed English clubs a list of players that are available for transfer. It has been reported that Madrid have contacted a number of Premier League outfits to make them aware of which players are up for sale as the Spanish giants look to make room for the host of new signings they are set to make this summer. However, Madrid have dismissed those claims in a statement, declaring:
Several Spanish media outlets today reproduced a report orginally published by the English newspaper The Guardian, alleging that Real Madrid has offered players to certain Premier League clubs via fax. Real Madrid categorically denies such allegation, which if accurate would be absolutely disrespectful to the members of the team.
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David Villa is someone whom I want at Real Madrid even if it means selling Ruud van Nistelrooy. And it looks like one half of that statement will come true sooner rather than later. Florentino Perez claims it is only “a question of time” before the club sign David Villa.
We are one of a number of clubs being linked to the vaunted striker, but talks between the two related clubs broke down last weekend and Los Che president Manuel Llorente revealed on Tuesday that there were no existing bids on the table for the 27-year-old. However, Perez was quoted as telling Canal Nou today:
Manuel Llorente knows what he wants to do. Us as well. For that the operation is a question of time. Everything must be done in a friendly and co-operative way and we have very good relations with Valencia. Things need to be done calmly, be explained well and so that everybody is happy. We have the whole of the summer ahead of us.
Perez insists, however, the fee they are willing to pay for Villa will not be in the same bracket as the ones they agreed for Kaka and Ronaldo.
Players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaka, who are Ballon d`Or or FIFA World Player of the Year winners, are players that are called investment players. Real Madrid cannot pay these quantities of money for every player. This is not to put down Villa. Players who have won these awards have an international impact. I think Villa is an excellent player, but he is a footballer who we have to accommodate into our project.
These comments come just a day after Villa confirmed he had made up his mind about where he wants to be playing his club football next season. Villa revealed after starring for Spain in the Confederations Cup yesterday that he had already taken a decision about his future and said that his agent was working on achieving that aim.
The striker, who has also reportedly attracted the interest of Barcelona, Manchester United and Chelsea, did not reveal what his decision was, but Spanish sports newspapers Marca and AS both believe it is Madrid who are his top choice.
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Cristiano Ronaldo‘s world-record switch from Manchester United is said to have moved a step closer with Spanish media reporting that his agent Jorge Mendes was at the Bernabeu yesterday to finalise contract details. The reports also suggest that Ronaldo could undergo his medical with Madrid next week before being presented at the end of the month, although there is nothing official from the club yet regarding these reports.
The Telegraph and The Daily Mail have reports on the possible wages of the player if the proposed move is completed as said. I do not want to talk about it. It is just a lot more
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In other news not related to money (or should I say hopefully not) the Municipal Sport Institute of Seville recently celebrated the 22nd Sport Party of the City of Seville, during which the best sportsmen, clubs, federations, eductaion centres, coaches, professionals, sponsors and institutions of the year were rewarded for their efforts. Sergio Ramos won the Best Sportsman of the Year.
That completes this post. I know that there weren’t too many rumors here but like I said this post is like a bank. It has only €€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€.
Until next time,
Cheerios!
Para Siempre Blanco!
Hala Madrid!!
An early morning brain wave
Its sometime around 0730 or 0800 or whatever here and I am up already. Hell I am getting no sleep. Blah Blah Blah Blah Blah. I could go on and on like this. But this isn’t about that. I’ve got a lot of other stuff to talk about
For the past few weeks or so I’ve been concentrating too much on the big names like Kaká, Cristiano Ronaldo, Franck Ribery and David Villa the former pair have been signed and the latter duo have been strongly linked with us. But what I seem to have forgotten already was the fact that we do have other players on our team who have been linked with moves away from the club (Six in-Nine out Policy of Florentino) and plus there are millions of other European quality players.
So without further adieu lets get rollin’…
This is what David Villa told the press following the game in Bloemfontein after again being quizzed about his future:
I have made my decision. My agent knows my wishes, and he is now working on that – so I am relaxed. There is no deadline on the subject, and I really do not have any more details as this whole thing is not totally dependent on me.
We are hearing this amongst the rumors that the striker wants to stay in Spain and that only Real Madrid and Barcelona are contenders to sign him. At the same time there have been other rumors as to the only club Villa would move to would be the one in which his La Roja strike partner Fernando Torres is in at the moment. Well, just because they celebrate every goal of theirs like they’ve just given birth to a new baby, it doesn’t mean… Hell.. what am I saying?! This is a future Madridista we’re talking about. But why is he linked with Barcelona?!?
Anyhoo, moving on, the next rumor is about an exit from the Bernabeu concerning a one Mahamadou Diarra who was sitting at home throughout last season nurtuting an injury. The Malian central midfielder has been linked with a move to Juventus who are very keen on the 28 year old. Diarra is said to have been recommended to the Bianconeri by Fabio Cannavaro. He knee injury is unlikely to scupper any potential deal.
Diarra admits he would be willing to discuss a move to Italy, but insists any such agreement will rest in the hands of his current employers which is ofcourse Real Madrid. Speaking to skysports.com he said:
I am feeling very well at the moment and I hope to come back even stronger next season. Real are recruiting a lot of big stars at the moment and I am looking forward to the next campaign.
Thats nice to hear. But he did have a few words to say about Juve:
Juve? They are a great side, one of the best in the world, so to be linked with them is fantastic.But to play there, I don’t know yet. We will have to wait and see what the new officials at Real have planned.
It is true that we are having an abundance (of players) in the middle of the park with Lass, Gago, De la Red, Kaka, Sneijder, Van der Vaart, Guti, Parejo, Javi Garcia which means that we will sell one or two or maybe send them on loan. Diarra is a good player. No doubt. And it is very obvious that he is our most mature defensive midfielder with the lesser mature being the likes of Lass, Gago and Javi Garcia. So do we sell him?
For sometime now The Offside guy has been whining to get to back the Cantaneros who are doing so well now at every other club (almost (OK, exaggeration)) other than Real Madrid. One such player who has been linked with us is Álvaro Arbeloa of Liverpool. The player has admitted that he would consider a return to Spain as he believes he has a point to prove in his homeland.And also there is this little fact that he has only one year left in his contract and Liverpool are close to signing a certain Glen Johnson who too plays in the same position as our young Cantanero. Anyhoo, Arbeloa has been talking and we too have been talking about a right sided player (God knows why). He told Elmundo while on international duty at the Confederations Cup:
I am happy at Liverpool, but I have something to prove in Spain as I did not show my best form in La Liga. One day, I’m sure I will return.
It is always nice to be linked to big teams – even to this Madrid side in a time of transition. They are working hard to build a great team.
I have one more year remaining on my Liverpool deal, but anything can happen. A contract renewal is in the air. I am contracted for one more year, but if Liverpool get an offer they will consider it. It is all in the hands of my agent.
If there is one Cantanero whom I would never want Real to sign it would be him. First of all he is cheap and second of all he has played for both Deportivo and Liverpool. And ofcourse there is obvious reason that we don’t need a Right sided defender who can do nothing but play on the Right side.
And if there is one Cantanero whom I want us to sign ASAP it would be Esteban Granero. But Getafe president Angel Torres has said that Granero would be made to stay for another year atleast despite being linked with swap deals to Valencia and Villareal.
Bayern Munich is confused. Der Kaiser Franz Beckenbauer is yeah, senile. Franck Ribery is AWESOME. Even though these three phrases don’t sum up to mean anything they are independently true.
It was Beckenbauer who told Bild that:
We discussed the issue at our last board meeting and we all agreed that, if he really wants to leave, then we will deal with the issue.
Immediately reports emanating from Spain suggested that Real are leading the chase for the sought-after Ribery by offering Rafael van der Vaart and Wesley Sneijder as makeweights in the deal which is SO BLOODY FOOLISH. And Zidane was quoted as saying:
We will do whatever it takes to make Ribéry come to Real Madrid. It is the voice of Florentino Perez and mine.
But then Bayern made all this just a little more than a speculation by releasing an official statement that said:
There is no such resolution by the advisory board of FC Bayern Munich AG which includes the issue of a sale of the player Franck Ribery. The transfer (sale) of a player does not need the approval of the advisory board, according to the constitution of the FC Bayern Munich AG board of directors. The FC Bayern Munich AG board of directors have made the overwhelming resolution that the player Franck Ribery is not for sale.
There are several reasons as to why you can love Arjen Robben and there are several more reasons why you can love Hans Robben, Arjen Robben’s father, who is also the Dutch International’s agent. The following is one amongst them. He told Dutch paper Algemeen Dagblad:
There are reports currently circulating on the internet that the agent of Arjen has confirmed there are talks with Spurs. But the only who is representing him is me and I don’t know anything about it. At the moment we are not in action with any other team than Real Madrid.
Robben Senior is adamant his son will not be playing under Harry Redknapp next season adding:
I even want to bet on a bottle of wine Arjen won’t play there.
Staying with England, Tottenham have put in a 30 million pound bid for Real Madrid trio, Arjen Robben, Gabriel Heinze and Klaas-Jan Huntelaar. Sportsmail revealed that Spurs chairman, Daniel Levy is in Madrid along with finance director Matthew Collecott to meet Florentino Perez.
Harry Redknapp’s priority this season is a winger, striker and left-back. The White Hart Lane boss has already gone about trying to get hold of another Madrid player, Ruud van Nistelrooy, but the Dutch striker’s wage demands are too high for the North London club.
F*ck you Tottenham! F*ck you Redknapp! F*ck you North London!
Oh talking about North London, we are apparently vying for the signature of Arsenal’s French full backs Bacary Sagna and Gaël Clichy. Sagna went from ‘not against’ Real deal to ‘deny any knowledge of link to Madrid‘. But then again why are we after a right back? And about the other Gunner, he straightway declared that Arsenal is his only club but at the same time he is flattered that he has been linked with Real Madrid.
Another player of ours who is linked with a move to England is Royston Drenthe. After Barry’s move to Man City the player has been linked with a move to Villa Park to play under Martin O’Neill. Villa have supposedly made a bid close to 5 million euros. Reject it immediately. Period.
Luis Antonio Valencia is still linked with Real Madrid. Its false. Don’t believe it.
I wouldn’t blame you if you haven’t heard of Luca Dürholtz. This is a kid who plays under-17 football with Bayer Leverkusen and is considered to be the next Bernd Schuster (ofcourse he has blonde hair). We are apparently ready to pay 700,000 for the youngster to lure him into Castilla. He is a German international at the U-16 level and plays offensive midfield.
Staying with Castilla, Real Valladolid are targeting Alberto Bueno, Miguel Torres and Dani Parejo. The wage structure of Dani Parejo though doesn’t match with his suitors. But one kid who will be staying at Real Madrid when he grows up will be World Champion Pablo Sarabia. The youngster has declared that his goal is to play at the Bernabeu.
Now that was a lot of rumors considering it being a single post. *Sigh*
I’ll make sure that it isn’t the case next time out. And yeah, Hala Madrid will be following a new format soon (tentatively from 1st of July). The changes will be obvious and so I am not going to list out all the changes and stuff.
Until then, Cheerios!
Para Siempre Blanco!
Hala Madrid!!
Florentino Perez to Publico
Florentino Perez discussed all the recent news surrounding Real Madrid in an interview with Spanish newspaper Publico.
CLUB
I feel that members want us to return the values of fair play, transparency and honor to Madrid; values that should have never been abandoned. Real Madrid is a very powerful institution that confuses many people… Presidents, players, coaches, reporters, directors… It is a problem. People lose touch with reality. This is why we have readopted a code of good governance and proper conduct. I will not benefit from my post. I do not know why it wasn’t signed during the last three years. It’s a bad sign when it is taken away.
Executives bring stability to companies. The best thing about the last three years was the stability brought by Jose Angel Sanchez. Stability that will continue with me, but he is the best sports club professional that I have met. And I have met many.
There are a lot of options out there for the Real Madrid brand. Everything that has been discussed in recent days is an investment that will help us generate revenue. I do not like to show off, but let me remind you that this is what was done in 2000 and we tripled revenue thanks to signing players who people thought were so expensive. Believe me when I tell you that we will see a big increase in revenue thanks to these investments. This isn’t money spent on a whim. It is an investment in the future.
Spain 1-0 Iraq
Spain are through to the semi-finals of the FIFA Confederations Cup South Africa 2009 but they were made to work for their place, and a 1-0 victory, by a resolute Iraq side.
The Asian champions made life difficult for their European counterparts from the offset and nearly snatched a shock ninth-minute opener when Alaa Abdul Zahra snatched on a Gerard Pique mistake to test Iker Casillas from 20 yards.
Spain quickly established a stranglehold on possession, however, and Mohammed Kassid had to rush from his line to deny Fernando Torres after the Liverpool striker worked a wonderful one-two with Xavi.
David Villa, meanwhile, was chasing the goal that would take him past Fernando Hierro as Spain’s second-top all-time scorer, and he came close in 24 minutes with a left-foot volley that flashed into the side-netting.
Chances were at a premium, with Iraq generally successful in subduing their illustrious opponents, and Villa must have wondered if this wasn’t to be his day when he spurned a glorious chance seven minutes into the second half. Santi Cazorla curled in a tantalising cross and Villa, unmarked 10 yards from goal, headed straight at the grateful keeper.
Yet, like any great striker, Villa picked himself up and made amends with a superbly-taken winner, directing a precise header just inside the far post from another terrific cross from left-back Joan Capdevila.
MATCH SUMMARY:
SPAIN: Casillas, Ramos, Pique, Marchena, Capdevila, Alonso, Xavi (Busquets, min. 81), Cazorla (Silva, min.66), Mata, Torres, Villa (Guiza, min. 74).
IRAQ: Kassid, Shaker, Fareed Majeed, Ali Hussein, Basem Abbas, Nashat Akram, Mahdi Karemm, Muayad Khalid, Hawar Mulaa (Karrar Jassim, min. 69), Samer Saeed (Mahdi Kareem, min. 59), Abdul Zahra (Younis Mahmoud, min. 79).
GOALS:
1-0, m. 55 Villa.
REFEREE: Matthew Breeze (Australia).
NOTES: Game 2 of the Confederations Cup. Group stage.
PLAYED AT: Free State Stadium, Mangaung/Bloemfontein.
Spain vs Iraq | FIFA Confederations Cup | Group Stages | Preview
Spain midfielder Cesc Fabregas has asked his team-mates to keep their feet on the ground ahead of their second Confederations Cup game against Iraq.
The European champions moved top of Group A after they romped to a 5-0 victory over New Zealand on Sunday and a win against their Asian counterparts in Bloemfontein will seal a place in the semi-final.Vicente del Bosque’s team, who are unbeaten since 2006, will also be looking to move a step closer to the world-record mark of 35 games unbeaten set by Brazil between 1993 and 1996 – they are currently on 33.
Arsenal ace Fabregas, though, is not looking too far beyond the group stages, admitting that the initial priority will be getting past the Iraqis and hosts South Africa. He told Fifa.com:
There’s still a long way to go. It’s true that our first game was easier than we thought, but it’s a long tournament, and there are some excellent teams to come. We know we’re favorites but we’ve got to be wary going into these matches. We saw the game between South Africa and Iraq before traveling to the stadium. We’re very confident but we have to remain composed. We’ll be taking the remaining matches extremely seriously.
Fabregas was one of the stand-out players in their tournament debut against the All Whites, setting up the opening goal for Fernando Torres, who scored a hat-trick, and then himself getting on the scoresheet with the fourth Spanish goal. He added:
We played really well. It’s always important to start with a win and that’s just what we did. It was a great way to set the ball rolling, and I hope that from here we can improve with every game. We realise that this is just the beginning and that there’s a long way to go in the Confederations Cup.
Like La Roja, the Iraqis also raised many eyebrows after holding the home side to a goalless draw in the tournament opener in Johannesburg. Asked about how he was going to prepare his team for the match against the world number one team, Iraq coach Bora Milutinovic responded:
That’s a very easy answer. When you play against Spain, you don’t need to have any preparation. You need to know against who you are playing. You need to know the opposition and you need to be happy to be playing one of the most important teams in world football. You need to put in your best effort and say ‘okay, we are going to play football’.
The Serb was thrilled with the way his side performed against the hosts, saying that the point gained was now a big boost to their semi-final chances. He said:
The point is very important. Our goal is to try to win every game and even though we did not win against South Africa, we still gained a positive result. It gives us a chance of qualifying for the semi-finals.
Teams:
Spain: Iker Casillas, Diego Lopez, Pepe Reina; Raul Albiol, Gerard Pique, Carlos Marchena, Carles Puyol, Joan Capdevila, Sergio Ramos, Alvaro Arbeloa; Pablo Hernandez, Xavi, Cesc Fabregas, Sergio Busquets, Xabi Alonso, Santi Cazorla, Albert Riera, David Silva, Juan Mata; David Villa, Fernando Torres, Fernando Llorente, Daniel Guiza;
Iraq: Noor Sabri, Mohamed Kassid, Oday Talib; Mohamed Ali Kareem, Basem Abbas, Salam Shaker, Ali Hussein Rehema, Dara Mohammed, Abbas Isam, Muayad Khalid; Fareed Majeed, Nashat Akram, Salih Sadir, Abdul Wahhab , Hawar Mulaa Mohammed, Karrar Jassim, Mahdi Kareem, Samer Saaed, Halkard Mulla Mohammed; Emad Mohammed , Luay Salah, Younis Mahmoud, Alaa Abdul Zahra;
Played at: Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein.
Blast of the past for Metzelder
With several friendlies already on the books, including one in Canada and another in the United States, Real Madrid wishes to announce another exhibition match against Borussia Dortmund on 19 August to celebrate the German club’s 100-year anniversary.
On August 19, 2009 the legendary 1998 Champions League semi-final match will be restaged. Borussia Dortmund meets Real Madrid C.F. in a friendly match at Dortmund’s Signal Iduna Park. BVB’s longstanding marketing partner SPORTFIVE made the footballing highlight possible. The exact kick-off time is still to be announced.
This game is the third European encounter SPORTFIVE has organized and marketed for Real Madrid C.F., officially declared by FIFA to be the best club of the 20th century. SPORTFIVE is organising the two historic clubs’ exclusive meeting with its newly founded event subsidiary, ‘The Sports Promoters’ (TSP).
Philipp Hasenbein, managing director of SPORTFIVE, said:
We are delighted to be able to bring Real Madrid, the world’s best club, to Dortmund and organise and market such a footballing highlight for BVB’s centenary. For TSP, organising this top encounter is a thrilling job.
BVB CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke commented:
A duel with Real Madrid is always an absolute highlight. We are very pleased to be able to offer our fans this encounter, because games against the ‘Royals’ are always great emotional occasions and every player wants to do their best, even if it is a game between friends.
Real Madrid General Director and Presidential Advisor, Jorge Valdano said:
Our fans and the team are already looking forward to this game, because BVB is a great club and the game is sure to take place against an impressive backdrop. We have had very good experiences with friendly matches in Germany and it will be a very interesting and prestigious game for our team.
It’s a home-coming of sorts for Christoph Metzelder, who on 19 August will return to Borussia Dortmund as a Madridista. Also of note, Kaka will come face to face with Egyptian striker Zidan, who he played against earlier this week in the Confederations Cup.
Metzelder spent seven years with Borussia, during which he earned the reputation as an outstanding defender and a spot on the German national team.
Kaka and Zidan, meanwhile, will square off once again after both put in stunning performances in their Confederations Cup duel. Real Madrid are already familiar with the Egyptian, who scored a cracker of a goal against them with Hamburg during last summer’s Emirates Cup in London.
Sergio Ramos to El Pais
Sergio Ramos is currently playing in the Confederations Cup with Spain, but he found some time to talk about his international career and the current situation at Real Madrid.
You are the youngest player to be capped for the 50th time with Spain. How does that feel?
It’s an important number. These things make you want to improve and learn more. I am very happy for reaching such a nice number, especially in a successful game. I happen to be the youngest because people had faith in me at a young age, that’s all.
Do you remember your first game?
My first friendly was against China in 2005. My first official match was against Serbia. I scored my first goal in San Marino the day Fernando Torres scored his first hat-trick. I actually netted two strikes that day. Those experiences are unforgettable.
How much have you changed since then?
I’m still the same person: a child that dreams about becoming a football player and about learning something new every day. You learn and try to help out both at Real Madrid and on the Spanish national team.
David Villa Update: No Villa to Real
It looks like David Villa will not play for Real Madrid in the upcoming season after the deal between the clubs went from “almost done” to “we can’t afford him”. Its funny to hear our club people saying “We cannot afford to spend so much money on a single player” especially after two back-to-back record deals involving Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Valencia’s sporting director Fernando Gomez Colomer claims the player is happy to remain at Valencia and has given no indication that he is seeking a summer exit. He said:
On the subject of David Villa, two points need to be clarified: Valencia has never concluded an agreement with a club for Villa’s possible transfer and currently we have not received any satisfactory offer. There have been foreign clubs interested, there have been offers. The player prefers to stay at Valencia.
Meanwhile there have been reports on Marca that Barcelona are tabling a 50million euros offer for El Guaje. This comes after repeated whining of the Barcelona officials about Real’s spending spree.
And about whom we will be after now that the Villa deal is virtually on the rocks; Marca says we’ll use the cash to open up the buy out clause of Diego Forlan from our unfriendly neighbours (an idea to which I am totally against FYI). Valdano has revealed his admiration for the French sensation Karim Benzema (a guy whose mouth is just a little smaller than Ibra’s but nevertheless a great player). And then there is our very own Canterano Alvaro Negredo!
Off late I’ve been really impressed by the guy at the Real Madrid: Offside site. His Campaign to Bring Back Canteranos has really inspored me and I must admit that I am totally for it. And ofcourse there is the undeniable fact that Alvaro Negredo is an excellent player. As of now he is in our squad. I am just hoping that we don’t sell him. But then again Valdano says we might have to sell Negredo but then that was when we had Villa in our grasps.
Also Valdano (Yeah, Valdano again!) admitted that Real are in talks with Getafe about bringing back Esteban Granero. Woohooo! Oh yeah, but that was after he realised getting Ribery here is almost impossible despite Zizou advise.
Just another Madridista
Junta speak