Valdano to TVE
Jorge Valdano gave an interview to Spanish National Television (TVE). The Club’s Director General and Presidential Aide believes the team performed well against Barcelona despite the defeat.
The team lost against Barça despite giving a great performance.
Both teams were ambitious and played a good game. Both sides had the initiative at times and dominated the match. Real Madrid clearly wanted to win. They pressurised Barcelona in attack and had clear chances to score. We missed our chance to take the lead in the first half, while the last 45 minutes are harder to analyse. Barcelona changed their system, focusing more on defenidng, and they scored a goal. Both teams saw a red card too. Many different elements affected the match.
What do you think would have happened if Cristiano Ronaldo had scored from the chance he had?
I believe the match would have become more difficult for Barcelona, but the game was what it was and we must now work to strengthen the confidence of our squad. We played at one of the most complicated venues in football. We lived up to our opponent and I believe we didn’t deserve to lose. We feel ready for important games.
What was the problem then?
Our greatest problem is anxiety. Some people say the team looked somewhat tired in the second half, but I don’t agree. Our problem is that we try to score a goal prematurelly and we forget football has certain principles we have to respect.
Is the Club satisfied with the performance despite the defeat?
We are sad because we wanted to win and we didn’t even earn a draw, but we are very happpy with the team’s performance. We liked the coach’s and the players’ attitude. They are all great professionals.
Has Pellegrini’s situation improved thanks to the match?
We played very well in Barcelona. The coach used a daring and brave system. Very few teams will try to play like we did at Camp Nou and I don’t believe anyone has been this daring at the stadium in the past couple of years. From that standpoint, Pellegrini did what is asked of a Real Madrid coach. He showcased ambition, valor and a sense of risk.
Was Cristiano replaced because he couldn’t play more than 60 minutes?
Our Mediical Staff recommended that he play between 45 and 60 minutes. He was examined in the morning and results were good. We had to take into acccount that Cristiano has missed two months. He did well on the pitch and he successfully passed another examination after the match.
Lanzarote 3-4 Real Madrid Castilla
Real Madrid Castilla held on for a 4-3 win against Lanzarote on Sunday despite holding a 4-1 lead midway through the second half. Juan Carlos scored a brace and Luis Hernandez and Cristian had a goal apiece as the Whites steered another three points clear of the relegation zone.
MATCH SUMMARY:
Castilla: Adan; Nacho Fernandez, Mateos, Gary, Javi Velayos; Fran Rico, Luis Hernandez, Juan Carlos (Vazquez 75′), Mosquera; Samu (Rodrigo 61’), Cristian.
Lanzarote: Floro, Angel, Francis, Faruk, Ruben; Jotha, Echedey, Maikel, Vladimir; Roseen, Toñito, Ayoze, Jona
Goals:
0-1: Luis Hernandez (15’)
0-2: Juan Carlos (29’)
1-2 Ruben (p.) (37’)
1-3: Juan Carlos (46’)
1-4: Cristian (57’)
2-4: Maikel (69’)
3-4: Ruben (75’)
Notes: Week 15 of Segunda Division B Group II
Played at: Ciudad Deportiva in Lanzarote.
Referee: David Medie Jimenez
Barcelona 1-0 Real Madrid
Real Madrid can leave the Camp Nou with their heads held high after a near perfect performance that lacked but one crucial element, a goal. The Madridistas kept their lines tight, played in an orderly fashion and kept the ball moving vertically towards Victor Valdes’ box. Cristiano Ronaldo, Higuain and Benzema had the best scoring opportunities of the night, but the only player to find the back of the net was Ibrahimovic, who returned the top spot in La Liga to Barcelona.
Marcelo had the first attempt following a cross by Cristiano Ronaldo (6’). Barcelona responded with an individual play by Messi. The Argentine then passed to Henry, who sent the ball straight into Casillas’ hands (8’). Xavi also had a go from a distance but the shot sailed over the crossbar. Real Madrid then enjoyed their best football of the first half. Only three touches were needed to reach Barcelona’s box every time they stole the ball, and Valdes quickly became the busiest player of the pitch.
Cristiano Ronaldo nearly struck gold following a sensational play by Kaka, but Valdes made a magical save with his feet (19’). Real Madrid continued to press forward and the defense remained steadfast. The first half drew to a close after Casillas cleared to corner a cross by Henry (36’), then saved a shot by Iniesta (37’) and a weak strike by Marcelo that Valdes had no trouble stopping.
Real Madrid were just as forgiving in the second half. A Barcelona corner kick turned into a fast counterattack by Cristiano Ronaldo.The Portuguese passed to Higuain, who after escaping from Abidal, found nothing but Puyol’s body (52’). Three minutes later, Alves curled a brilliant ball into the Madridista box where Ibrahimovic slipped behind the defense and redirected the ball into the back of Casillas’ net. The hosts were then left with ten men after Busquets was booked for the second time.
Guardiola sat Keyta in place of Toure and Pellegrini swapped Cristiano Ronaldo and Arbeloa for Benzema and Raul. The game was still neck and neck. Pique came close with a header (68’), Abidal’s low shot was just wide of the far post (75’), Ramos headered a corner out of play (77’) and Benzema sent a ball into the stands (80’). Just as regulation time was about to expire, and after Lass was sent off for a second booking, Casillas got the better of Messi in a one-on-one matchup.
Lineups:
Real Madrid: Casillas, Sergio Ramos, Pepe, Albiol, Arbeloa (Raúl 75′), Lass, Xabi Alonso, Higuaín, Kaká, Marcelo, Cristiano Ronaldo (Benzema 67′);
Barcelona: Valdés, Alves, Piqué, Puyol, Abidal, Busquets, Xavi, Keita (Touré Yaya 67′), Messi, Iniesta, Henry (Ibrahimovic 52′);
Goals:
1-0, 57′: Ibrahimovic;
Referee: Mr. Undiano Mallenco;
Booked: Arbeloa, Pepe, Albiol, Marcelo, Lass, Sergio Busquets;
Sent off: Sergi Busquets (62′) and Lass (90′);
Notes: Week 12 of La Liga.
Played at: Camp Nou.
Barcelona vs Real Madrid | Spanish Primera Division | Round 12 | Preview
There is more than just three points at stake on Sunday when Barcelona host Real Madrid in the first Clasico of the season. Also in play is the top spot on La Liga, which the Whites currently hold but by the narrowest of margins. A victory will by no means determine the outcome of the competition, but it would serve as a big morale boost as the season rolls on.
It’s the start of an intense week for both teams, who in nine days will have three matches to play. Real Madrid took control of the league table last Saturday by defeating Racing Santander 1-0 at the Bernabeu. Four days later, the Whites found themselves in the driver’s seat of Group C in the Champions League after beating Zurich. The stretch of matches now passes through the Camp Nou, where Real Madrid hope to earn three points, maintain the top spot in the table and distance themselves even further from their closest pursuer with another three league matches to play before the Christmas stoppage.
The Whites made the trip to Barcelona with Cristiano Ronaldo in tow. After playing the last 20 minutes of Zurich match on Wednesday, the Portuguese international made his first league squad list in 59 days after falling injured against Olympique de Marseille. Raul Albiol was also included on the roster despite dealing with an injured right knee, but whether he plays or not will be a game time decision.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Leo Messi are also available for the Clasico, but it still isn’t known whether either or both will be among Barcelona’s starting eleven. “We will see how they feel and talk to the doctors,” said Pep Guardiola during his pre-match press conference. On the positive end, it’s the first time all season that the Catalan coach has all 21 players available, meaning that on Sunday three will have to be scratched from the roster.
Real Madrid and Barcelona have met on 158 occasions with the Whites holding a narrow advantage of 68 wins, 30 draws and 60 defeats. Real Madrid also hold the upper hand in terms of the number of goals scored, 262 compared to Barcelona’s 243.
Albiol on squad list
Nineteen men will make the trip to Barcelona for Sunday’s Clasico, among the Raul Albiol, who was injured earlier this week against Zurich. Guti, Metzelder and Van Nistelrooy are unavailable due to injury.
SQUAD LIST:
Goalkeeper: Casillas, Dudek.
Defenders: Arbeloa, Pepe, Sergio Ramos, Marcelo, Albiol, Garay.
Midfielders: Diarra, Kaka, Lass, Drenthe, Xabi Alonso, Granero, Van der Vaart.
Forwards: Raul, Benzema, Cristiano Ronaldo, Higuain.
INJURY REPORT
Guti: Bruised left quadriceps. Medical treatment and physiotherapy. Gym and field work.
Van Nistelrooy: Strained left triceps surae. Medical treatment and physiotherapy. Gym and field work.
Metzelder: Bruised right hamstring. Medical treatment and physiotherapy. Gym and field work.
Pellegrini press conference
During today’s pre-match press conference, Manuel Pellegrini appeared extremely confident ahead of Sunday’s Clasico.
Have you watched many Barcelona matches?
I have seen just as many as I have of our other opponents.
Do you think Barcelona make their opponents feel hopeless?
I am not concerned about that. I am thinking only about my team and we know what we have to do.
How is Albiol?
We will determine his status tomorrow, when we will decide if he is fit to play.
What kind of match do you expect?
I think we will seek the victory just as we always have. We hope it’s a great match.
What do you have planned in order to slow down Barcelona’s players?
I don’t think Barcelona is a team only comprised of names, but rather a team that has great individuals. We are very similar in that respect. This is my sixth season in Spain and I have played against Barcelona many times. We will see how we slow down their players, but we aren’t going to change our way of playing in order to do so.
Having Cristiano Ronaldo back must be a relief…
He is an irreplaceable player, but this team doesn’t depend on its star players. The team has been able to respond, which is why it is top in La Liga and the Champions League.
Have you prepared any special strategy?
We prepare strategic plays every week. We will continue with the same ones, but adapting them to our opponent.
Doesn’t it hurt you to leave Higuain on the bench?
I don’t know who said that. We will see who plays on Sunday.
Do you think the team is playing the style of football you like?
Barcelona have a certain way of playing and so do we. We are playing well, although we do have a little trouble at times. I think we have dominated from start to finish in all our victories.
Ins and Outs | S01P03
#1
DANIELE DE ROSSI. Yes. The AS Roma man. And yes. Real Madrid is linked with a January move for the Italian ace just like he was linked with us prior to Xabi Alonso’s arrival. I don’t know why though.
Despite the rumors that both Real Madrid and Chelsea are vying for the 26-year-old’s signature Roma’s technical director Bruno Conti has insisted that their midfield star is not up for sale. Roma were desperately trying to offload some of their top stars to give their troubled finances a boost in the summer. But after Alberto Aquilani joined Liverpool in a €20 million deal, Conti has reassured supporters that the club will not allow another of their youth academy products to walk away. He told the Corriere dello Sport:
It’s just paper talk. De Rossi is absolutely untransferable. He will not be joining Chelsea or Real Madrid or any other team. De Rossi is a Roma player today and will be a Roma player tomorrow and the day after tomorrow. There is not much else to say.
And that to the likes of Marca and AS only means that Real just have to increase their bid to get the player.
Source: Multiple
Degree of genuineness: If this had been may I’d have given it an 8.0 but now I’m not so sure. I’ll stick to a 5.0.
#2
In a move that substantiates why LLL calls him Lady Gago, Fernando Gago’s agent has revealed that the player is so unhappy at Real Madrid that he cries at home and is now desperate to leave the club in order to attract national team coach Diego Maradona’s attention.
Out of the Real Madrid side, Gago knows that he cannot be considered for Argentina’s World Cup squad next summer. That has sparked rumours of a January exit. Fiorentina have been linked with him, while a return to Boca Juniors on loan has also been mooted by the media in Spain and Argentina.
Gago’s agent, Marcelo Lombilla, has revealed that his client would like to stay at Madrid if he was able to play. Lombilla was quoted as saying by Marca:
It’s not a question of money, what Gago wants is match rhythm, because the World Cup is getting close and he wants Maradona to pick him for the squad. It’s no good to me to have a player who is not happy with his club. Gago is not playing. He stays at home crying.
The representative of Fernando Gago, Zoran Vekic, did not rule out the possibility that the Argentine might move out in January.
Sell him and get me De Rossi.
Source: Marca
Degree of genuineness: 7.0
(more…)
The mother of all matches – El Clásico pre-preview
And so finally its here. The first leg of the highly anticipated clash between the two biggest teams on the planet – FC Barcelona and Real Madrid C.F will be played tonight at the Camp Nou in Barcelona in front of 95,000 people at the stadium apart from the millions of viewers watching on television. The match will stage some of the biggest stars on the planet all on the same field at the same time vying for both pride and three points. The match couldn’t come in a better situation for the neutrals with a rejuvenated Barca side coming back from a minor slump in the league to beat FC Internazionale in the Champions League on Tuesday and a Real Madrid side which is at the top of the table in both La Liga and its Champions League group after miserly wins over Racing Santander and FC Zurich thanks to Gonzalo Higuain’s solitary goals in both the matches.
Both teams have their best starting line up fully fit as both Lionel Messi and Zlatan Ibrahimovic were rested in midweek so as to confirm their participation tonight. Toure Yaya too has recovered from the H1N1 infection (be sure to stay away from him) and is likely to start. As far as Real are concerned Guti, Van Nistelrooy and Metzelder are the only casualties for Manuel Pellegrini whereas Lady Gago is dropped. Crisitano Ronaldo, who made his comeback after a 55-days hiatus due to injury in the midweek game against Zurich, is ready to go again. Albiol who hyper extended his ligament and was a doubt for the game has been given the green signal to play. Sergio Ramos too has recovered from his niggle.
This will be the first Clasico for the Neo-Galactico era. The likes of Kaka, Benzema and Xabi Alonso will play Barcelona as a Madridista for the first time. And they all had something to say…
Cristiano Ronaldo press conference
Cristiano Ronaldo talked to the media two days before his first match against Barcelona as a Real Madrid player.
Do you feel ready to be a starter at Camp Nou?
I think it’s normal for me not to be in optimum form right now. I just want to help the team.
What have you been told of last season’s Clasico at the Bernabeu?
I don’t like to talk about the past. I don’t care what happened because I wasn’t there. I’m concerned about the present. I hope we can defeat Barcelona.
Pellegrini’s opening speech today was longer than usual.
That’s because he said everything outdoors today. He usually talks to us inside too. It has nothing to do with the fact that we’re about to face Barcelona.
Does the leadership make you favourites to win the match?
I always think there are no favourites. Those who are ambitious must always believe they are the favourites to win. We have great respect for our opponent, but we shouldn’t be afraid of them. They are a great team, but I don’t believe either of us is the favourite to win.
Do you think the team depends on you?
We are leaders in the two most important competitions, so I don’t think the team depends on me at all. We are doing well and scoring goals. I’d like to help.
Does the fact that the crowd will be against you motivate you even more?
I’m used to that. It was the case for me at every English stadium after Portugal eliminated England from the 2006 World Cup, but I nevertheless ended up becoming the best player in the Premiership. I’m just concerened about playing well on Sunday and about helping the team. I think we can win with or without me.
Xabi Alonso to Realmadrid.com
Xabi Alonso shared his views on the forthcoming Clasico with Realmadrid.com.
Which Barcelona-Real Madrid match do you remember the most?
I remember many. I remember when Raul scored at Camp Nou and gestured towards the crowd to be silent. I also remember how Zidane scored from a lob in the Champions League semifinals. Baptista scored an amazing volley two or three years ago. You always felt it was a very important match. Just imagine how I feel now that I’m going to be part of it.
Your father could give you advice…
He will pay close attention to the match. He took part in Clasico’s when he was a player at Barcelona.
Will he support you or his former team?
He’ll support me, I’m sure.
You’ve played at Camp Nou before. Which is your favourite personal performance at the stadium?
I don’t have very fond memories from when I played there with Real Sociedad because we lost both times. The last time I played there with Liverpool we won 2-1 in the first leg of the Champions League’s Last 16. It was fantastic.
What will be the key to defeating them at their home stadium?
We’ll have to cover well every aspect of the game. We have to make them feel uncomfortable and prevent them from keeping possession. We can’t afford to lose the ball easily and we’ll have to capitalise on our chances.
Do you think Messi will play? Do you want him to?
I think he will play and I would be delighted if he did.
Benzema 3-0 Xavi: Trash talk round-up
With countdown to the Clasico well under way, Karim Benzema and Xavi Hernandez connected online to play a game of FIFA 10. The Madridista won the match 3-0 with a hat-trick by Cristiano Ronaldo. The two players could see one another’s reactions via webcams connected to television screens. Benzema and Marcelo had the best scoring chances in the first half, but it was Cristiano Ronaldo who stole the show in the second with a hat-trick.
Benzema who spoke after the demolition to the press gathered there said that all that mattered was a win and not who scored the goals. He said:
It was just a video game, but I would love for the outcome to be the same on the pitch. I practiced a little yesterday. This game is much more real than the last version.
One of the most striking features of the event, MARCA says, was his formation. The game by default placed Raul in the starting line-up, but Benzema preferred to take the captain out and put the white captain Gonzalo Higuaín. When asked about it he revealed:
Raul is a great player and Cristiano Ronaldo is even better in real life than he is in the game. I would love to score a goal on Sunday, but I don’t care who scores as long as Real Madrid win.
Our hat-trick hero, the returning Cristiano Ronaldo, admits he is keen to play some part in Sunday’s showdown with Barca at the Nou Camp. He received a loud cheer from our supporters when he started warming up during the second half of the Zurich game, and then another ovation when he replaced captain Raul. Speaking to Telemadrid he said:
I’m tired because I’m still not at 100%, but I’m sure I will return to be how I was before the injury, scoring goals, having good games and helping the team.
I had a very good reception and now I want to show them the best of me. I want to play in the Clasico if I feel good, although that is the reasonability of the coach. In any case, with or without me, the team are first in La Liga and in their Champions League group.
Good players always have to play. (Against Zurich) I didn’t score, but I hope to do in the following game. It doesn’t bother me if it’s 1-0, 2-0 or 2-1, the important thing is to win.
Arbeloa to Goal.com
Goal.com spoke to the Real Madrid defender ahead of the trip to Camp Nou. He believes that his side are the Blaugrana’s equals and are nearly ready to explode into action.
What can Real Madrid take from the game against FC Zurich?
The best thing is the three points, to be one step nearer to the next stage and that we depend upon ourselves to go through as group winners.
Madrid are still being criticised for the way the team plays, but you have beaten some records in the league and are top of your Champions League group. Does the continuing criticism bother you?
No, we agree with the criticism because we know that we are not playing our best football and that we have a team who can play much better. But we are confident that we will do that. Given more time I am sure that things will improve. We are also confident because, as you say, we are winning games and we have great statistics. We have done that without playing well and so when we do start playing well it will be great. But we are our own biggest critics and we know there are things that can be improved, but it is always easier to do that if you are winning at the same time.
You are going to play in your first Clasico. How do you feel ahead of the game, and how will you approach it?
With great desire. As we have seen this week it is going to be a very difficult game because in Camp Nou they play great football and I am sure it will be a tremendous battle.
Do you think there is a favorite? Do you feel you are behind the champions?
No, we do not feel less than Barca. It is clear that when you play in one one of these games home advantage is important but we will go there feeling confident that we can earn a great result.
Sergio Ramos to Sky TV
Sergio Ramos shared his views on the upcoming Barcelona-Real Madrid game with Sky TV.
How do you feel on a personal level? How do you think the team is doing so far?
I had to gradually adapt again after my injury and I now feel fit. I can do better and help the team more and I will gradually do so. I think the team is working hard despite our elimination from the Copa del Rey. We know what we need to do to achieve our goals in La Liga and in the Champions League. We will try to work hard and to be humble to win a title.
How should the team play?
Everyone will have their own opinion, but we try to do what the coach asks of us. Things may work or not, but people should be happy with the team because we are having a great attitude. Fans aren’t thrilled by our style, but they soon will be. We will gradually improve.
What does the coach want the team to do?
There’s a new system now that we have new players on the squad and we have to continue to try out different options. The coach will change positioning and tactics around to create a style that suits Real Madrid. I can’t really define a style yet because we are still trying out stuff to be at our best. We’ll try to thrive in our style once we find it.
Barcelona play a horizontal game while yours is more vertical. That may be the greatest difference between both teams…
Barcelona’s advantage is the fact that they’ve been playing together for much longer and they know each other perfectly well. They were lucky to be rewarded for their efforts with three titles last year and that may make people believe everything is easy for them. But each team has its own style. We may be better than them in attack and at counterattacking. They may be better in midfield because they have players that truly make a difference in that part of the pitch.
What should players do in the days preceding a Clasico?
We must remain calm. I think it would be a mistake to try out new things. A Clasico is different to any other game, but preparations are the same; we rest, get motivated and try to be ready for when the time comes.
Several players on both teams are team-mates on the Spanish national side. Have you talked about the game?
We’ve joked about it and teased each other, but it’s nothing serious. We are all friends. We’ve been together on the national team for several years.
Casillas press conference
Iker Casillas told the media that he believes the Clasico on Sunday will be disputed and exciting.
What do you think of Barcelona?
They play good football and are earning similar numbers to ours. It will be a nice and exciting game.
What do you think of your team?
We sometimes play well and we sometimes don’t. The important thing is that we are earning good results. We hope to play better in the future. We still have to adapt to our new players and to the new coach.
How important will the game be for Barcelona?
Everyone was saying just five days ago how drastic this week was going to be for them, especially after drawing against Athletic Bilbao. Antyhing can happen in football.
Do you prefer to be leaders or to be praised for playing good football?
I prefer the team to lead. Last year we were a disaster according to the press and it’s the same this year despite the greater difference between the situations we were in before the Clasico at Camp Nou in both seasons.
What will you try to do at Camp Nou?
We won’t wait for them to come at us in defence. We will fight to keep possession and we’ll see what happens. We will not be afraid and we’ll try to mark their dangerous men as well as we can. We should just worry about what we do.
What makes Barcelona a dangerous team?
Xavi and Iniesta are excellent players. I’ve always said they are the true wizards on the team when they have the ball at their feet.
Post-match comments
Manuel Pellegrini said he wasn’t satisfied with the team’s performance despite the victory. Raul talked to the media after the match against Zurich. The captain analysed the victory and talked about his personal situation on the team. Cristiano Ronaldo played again 56 days after his last game with Real Madrid. The Portuguese player was very happy about making his comeback. Pepe and Sergio Ramos were happy with the team’s victory against Zurich.
Pellegrini:
The team may be a little too anxious and may be feeling pressure due to the criticism we’ve received and the fact that some aspects of our game don’t seem to work. I think there’s a lot of merit in being group leaders. We don’t play badly, but we don’t play entertaining football. We are worried because this is not how we want to play. I don’t like this from a coaching standpoint. We don’t seem to loosen up. On the other hand, we are solid in defence. We nevertheless lack creativity, mobility and luck. We had many chances on goal tonight.
We still have to thrill the fans. Narrow victories are hard. A second goal would have allowed us more freedom.
Cristiano is going to benefit from the minutes he played. He seemed fine in the training sessions and was no longer worried about his injury. We all know how much he can do for the team.
Statistically speaking, Barcelona don’t score more goals than we do and we don’t concede more than them. They play differently, but they have a clear concept of their game and we are looking for a style different from that of recent years. I don’t believe the style of both teams is that different.
Raul:
It wasn’t a great game, but we nonetheless earned a very important victory. We’ve taken a step towards the Last 16 and we will have to take three points in Marseille.
People should have faith in the team. We currently hold a privileged position and, despite having to improve, we are part of a new project. People should be patient. We want the fans to have fun. Every new player on the team is a great professional. We just need to be more confident.
Tonight’s victory will help us gain confidence and improve. This is a great project and the team is doing a good job, but we find it hard to win a game. We grow anxious because we want to do well; this prevents us from finishing the games as we would really like them to end.
People should be demanding, but I don’t believe we are playing so badly. We are scoring goals and conceding very few.
Three very important points and the hopes of many Madridistas will be at stake in Barcelona. Barça will host the match and it will be a good chance for us to showcase our full potential. We want the match to be a turning point for us this season.
I feel important. I’ve talked to the coach and he’s told me he wants all of us to be important. This is a great and hungry squad. We are leaders and we’ll continue to fight hard. I have to make good use of the chances I get.
I feel people’s support and respect. I want to help out in this great project. I knew what my role was going to be like; that I was going to spend more time on the bench. I’ve nevertheless been a starter in several games. The team as a whole is what really matters.
I’m going to see my contract through. I have no problems to accept my role. I will not look for a way out because I am happy with this project and I want to be a part of it.
Real Madrid 1-0 FC Zurich
Real Madrid won by the slimmest of margins for the second straight match on Wednesday despite dictating the tempo and claiming the majority of the scoring opportunities. Higuain’s goal was all the Whites needed to move top in Group C, and barring a major debacle in Matchday 6 they are virtually assured of a spot in the Last 16.
Four new faces found their way into the starting eleven as Ramos and Albiol returned to the back line, Lass rejoined Xabi Alonso in the midfield and Raul took position as captain. Real Madrid took early control and Kaka had the team’s first shot cleared by the keeper on 4’. Five minutes later, Xabi Alonso sent a long-range straight into Leoni’s hands.
It was clear the first goal would fall at any minute with the kind of football being displayed on the pitch. Shortly before the midway point of the first half, Kaka stole the ball in the midfield, dribbled past a defender and served Higuain a brilliant pass that the Argentine slipped by Zurich’s keeper. Although they had the upper hand, the Whites continued searching for more. Xabi Alonso had another attempt on goal on 26’ but was denied by a phenomenal save. Marcelo culminated a corner kick with a shot from the top of the box that struck the post eight minutes later.
The script remained unedited in the second half. Real Madrid pressured in attack while the Swiss side relied on counterattacks and free kicks that had little chance of reaching the back of Iker Casillas’ net. Van der Vaart replaced Arbeloa, Marcelo moved to left-back, and the Dutchman nearly scored the second of the night with a beautiful volley seven minutes after setting foot on the playing field.
The Santiago Bernabeu then erupted in applause when Cristiano Ronaldo took position for the first time since falling injured against Olympique de Marseille. He nearly brought the crowd to its feet a second time with a brilliant run that almost finished with the ball in the back of the net towards the end of regulation. But there was no time for more and Real Madrid moved top in Group C. Barring a major debacle, they will move into the Last 16 in two weeks time.
Lineups:
Real Madrid: Casillas, Sergio Ramos, Pepe, Albiol, Arbeloa (Van der Vaart 58′), Lass, Xabi Alonso, Kaká (Granero 90′), Marcelo, Raúl (Cristiano Ronaldo 70′), Higuaín;
FC Zúrich: Leoni; Stahel, Tihinen, Barmettler, Koch, Gajic (Vonlanthen 76′), Aegerter, Margariaz, Rochat, Djuric (Schönbächler 89′), Alphonse (Mehmedi 86′);
Goals:
Referee: Mr. Alain Hamer (LUX)
Booked: Lass, Xabi Alonso, Stahel, Barmettler, Djuric;
Notes: Matchday 5 of the Champions League played at a sold-out Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.
INJURY REPORT:
ALBIOL: Raul Albiol was inured with an elongation of the internal lateral ligament of the right knee during the match against F.C. Zurich.
Ins and Outs | S01P02
#1
Ever since Fernando Amorebieta did the famous big boot on Messi, Madridistas have been in love with the Basque defender. This is no secret. But what has been kept a secret here is the fact that Real Madrid are now trying to sign the defender from Athletic Bilbao despite the fact that we have enough kick boxers on our side. A source close to the club’s management told a source close to a friend of another close friend of mine that:
Amorebieta wants to hang up his boots in Madrid. Real want him and he wants Real more.
I trust my source. But I don’t trust his. So lets see.
Source: A source close to the club’s management told a source close to a friend of another close friend of mine.
Degree of genuinity: 0.0
#2
Liverpool are reportedly interested in signing Ruud van Nistelrooy on loan in the January transfer window, according to the Sunday Mirror.
The Dutchman has spoken recently of his desire to leave the Bernabeu, unless he can force his way back into the first team, as he wants to play his way back into the Dutch squad for next summer’s World Cup. As that looks unlikely he could be set for a move in January, with Liverpool reportedly interested in signing the 33-year-old. The tabloid claims manager Rafael Benitez is keen to add an extra striker to the ranks, and could take the Dutchman on loan until the end of the season.
The report adds that whilst both Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City are also interested in him, he would prefer a move to Anfield, despite his strong connections with Manchester United.
Source: The Sunday Mirror
Degree of genuinity: 5.0
Real Madrid vs FC Zurich | UEFA Champions League | Group Stages | Matchday 5 | Preview
Only four days since their last match, Real Madrid return to the Santiago Bernabeu to host FC Zurich in Matchday 5 of the Champions League, where the Whites can clinch a berth in the Last 16 assuming Milan also defeat Olympique de Marseille. Available and ready to go is Cristiano Ronaldo, who made his first squad list in over a month and a half.
The Portuguese international received his first call up since falling injured on 30 September against Olympique de Marseille. Albiol and Lass have also recovered from their respective injuries that prevented the two from playing over the weekend against Racing Santander. Sergio Ramos, who served a one match suspension in La Liga, was also on Manuel Pellegrini’s 19-man roster.
FC Zurich arrive in Madrid hoping to pull the upset much in the same way they did in Milan. Without the services of Vonlanthen –injured- and Okonkwo -suspended-, and the participation of Koch and Aegerter doubtful, the Swiss side currently sit in the fourth and final spot of Group C with three points.
Wednesday’s match is the fourth installment of a relatively young rivalry between Real Madrid and FC Zurich. The three previous meetings have ended in Madridista victories, the last dating back to 15 September when Real Madrid won 2-5 in Switzerland. The first two encounters date back to the 1963/64 season, when Real Madrid won both legs of the European Cup semifinal tie, 1-2 and 6-0.
Casillas joins another century club
Iker Casillas will participate in his 100th Champions League match tonight against Zurich. The Madridista goalkeeper, who recently earned his 100th cap with the Spanish national team, joins a select group comprised of eleven men who have reached the century mark.
The return of Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo made his first squad lists in almost two months; the first since falling injured on 65′ against Marseille following a hard tackle by Diawara.
Where are They Now: Raúl Bravo
Raúl Bravo Sanfélix (born April 14, 1981 in Gandia, Valencia) is a former Real and Spanish football defender who currently plays for Olympiacos FC.
Club Career
After playing in his early years with two local outfits, Raúl Bravo joined Real Madrid’s youth system at 16. He was subsequently part of the Junior A side, and played for them two more seasons before arriving at the C team, then in the fourth division, moving to Real Madrid Castilla, in Segunda División B, for 2001–02.
International call-ups of some players in the first team gave him the chance for a top flight debut against Athletic de Bilbao, on October 6, 2001 at the Bernabéu (71 minutes in a 2–0 win). Bravo ended up training with the first team, then under Vicente Del Bosque’s management, very often. That eventually led to his permanent stay with the main side, starting in 2002–03.
In January 2003, Bravo served an unsuccessful loan spell at Leeds United. However, during Euro 2004 in which he appeared for Spain, Mick McCarthy, whilst commentating for the BBC, remarked that Bravo looked a different player to the one in his Leeds stint. Roberto Carlos’ presence, however, restricted his playing time in the Real first team.
With a chance to retain UEFA Champions League status, Bravo signed a four-year contract with Olympiacos FC on August 2007, with the transfer fee estimated in the region of €2.3 million, while the player received an annual salary of €1.3 million. In all he had played 77 games for Real Madrid scoring 5 goals.
After having appeared rarely for Olympiakos, Bravo had a short return to Spain in the 2009 January transfer window, moving on loan to league strugglers CD Numancia, having almost no impact in a relegation-ending campaign. He has since returned to Olympiacos.
Xabi Alonso to Realmadrid.com
Xabi Alonso will turn 28 on Wednesday. Real Madrid are set to face FC Zurich at the Bernabeu and the player believes a victory against them would be a great birthday present.
Your birthday is on Wednesday. There couldn’t be a more perfect present than a victory against FC Zurich, right?
A victory against FC Zurich is vital. We want to win the match and I hope it gets us a ticket to the Last 16. It would be a nice birthday present.
They don’t have much standing in Europe, but they proved they can defeat any team when they played at San Siro.
Nowadays any team can defeat you if you don’t do your best. The Swiss surprised Milan by defeating them 1-0 in Italy. We will suffer if we fail to be in top form.
You defeated them 5-2 in Switzerland. I guess the match at the Bernabeu will be similar; Real Madrid will dominate from the start and Zurich will try to capitalise on counterattacks and set pieces.
We hope to control the game. Scoring an early goal will be key to prevent them from growing confident. We must take things slowly and be cautious.
What is the team’s goal in the group stage?
We want to reach the Last 16. It would be even better to do so as group leaders. We depend on Milan because they’ve won the goal average against us. We’ll have to wait and see.
What do you think will happen in the group’s other game?
Marseille are a very good team and I believe the match will be even. Marseille have improved considerably lately and I wouldn’t rule out a surprise on their part at San Siro.
What’s better for Real Madrid, Milan’s victory, a draw or Marseille’s victory?
I’d prefer to seal our pass to the next round, even if it means both Milan and ourselves win our home games. I want to have the peace of mind of being in the Last 16. We’ll play for the leadership in the last match.
Pellegrini press conference
Manuel Pellegrini only thinks about tomorrow’s match against FC Zurich.
You must be happy – all your men are available save for Guti.
That’s right. Practically all my men experience no physical problems save for Guti, which allows me to try out different options in important games.
Why wasn’t Guti present in your speech prior to training?
He is sick with flu and has a fever.
Does he have normal flu or H1N1?
You have to ask the doctor that.
Will tonight’s results affect Barcelona’s performance on Sunday? What would you like tonight’s result to be?
I don’t follow what happens to Barcelona. That only interests them. We have an important match against Zurich coming up and we must focus on it.
How much do you value being group leaders?
I think it is important, but not decisive. I’d prefer to play the return leg of the Last 16 at home, but I don’t think it’s that important or that it may guarantee us reaching the next round.
Would you prefer Cristinano Ronaldo to play only in the first half or the entire game?
Cristiano Ronaldo has been doing well in the latest training sessions. He’s made the squad list and we’ll see what he can do tomorrow.
How important is his return to the team?
It is impossible not to miss a player of Cristiano Ronaldo’s quality. He is one of the best players in the world, but you can’t depend solely on one player. I believe the team has responded well to his absence.
Will you save some players’ efforts tomorrow to use them in Barcelona?
We only have one game on our minds, that against Zurich tomorrow. We will try to win to make it to the Last 16. We’ll start thinking about Barcelona after the game.
Higuain press conference
Gonzalo Higuain has earned a place on the latest starting lineups thanks to his great performances and important goals. The player talked about tomorrow’s match against FC Zurich and about this weekend’s Clasico at Camp Nou.
Everyone’s thinking about the match at Camp Nou, but you first have to defeat Zurich tomorrow…
People are making too much of the match against Barcelona, but tomorrow’s game is also important. We must focus on the Champions League and, after we do a good job in said competition, think about Barcelona.
Do you feel ready to play 90 minutes in both games?
A footballer wants to play all the time. I will be very happy if I am lucky enough to play in both games. It would be a privilege and I would try to do my best.
How would you want the Barcelona-Inter Milan match to end?
My team-mates and I only think about Real Madrid. We want to earn a good result and avoid complicating our situation.
What does Cristiano Ronaldo bring to the team?
He is a very unbalancing player and we are delighted about his recovery at this stage. He is very important to the team.
Does the coach ususally ask you to play closer to the right wing?
I am constantly swapping my position with Kaka and Karim… It depends on each game. I am a striker and the coach will decide how to use me once Cristiano returns.
Will his return hurt you on a personal level?
On the contrary. Great players help teams to play better. He is a great footballer and I hope he helps us as much as he can.
How did you bump into Guti in training?
We simply collided during training. It was a shame. We talked about it and there’s no problems between us.
How much spectacle will the Clasico lose if Messi doesn’t play?
I don’t know. I belong to this club and just look at what happens on my team. We are anxious to play at Camp Nou. A victory there would be very important for us. Nevertheless, the best Clasico’s are those which have the teams’ best players on the pitch.
If my aunt had been a man she’d be my uncle – Zurich pre-preview
There isn’t much to say except for a huge WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO to welcome back Cristiano Ronaldo who has been missing all our games since Matchday 2 at home against Marseille when he picked up a brace. We face Zurich tomorrow night at 20:45 CET at the Bernabeu on a Champions League matchday that could well see us storm into the knock stages IF things happen as they should. Realmadrid.com summed it up well in one of its article. It read:
With only two matches to go before the group stage of the Champions League comes to a close, the four teams that comprise Group C are alive and kicking. Milan and Real Madrid have the odds in their favor, but Zurich and Marseille still haven’t had the last word.
IF REAL MADRID DEFEAT F.C. ZURICH…
- And Milan beat Olympique de Marseille, Real Madrid and the Italian side go through and will play for the top spot in the final matchday.
- And Milan and Marseille draw, Real Madrid will take sole possession of first place (10 pts) and have a two point lead over the Italian team and three over the French. None of the top three teams will have clinched a berth in the Top 16. A draw at OM in Matchday 6 would suffice for the Whites, but the top spot still isn’t assured.
- And OM win in Milan, the Madridistas would continue atop Group C with 10 points, but there would be some major changes. OM would be second with nine points and Milan third with seven. Zurich, meanwhile, would be eliminated. All Real Madrid would need to finish atop Group C is a draw at OM in Matchday 6.
IF REAL MADRID AND F.C. ZURICH DRAW…
- And Milan beat OM, the Italian side clinches a berth in the Top 16 but not as the top seed. Real Madrid would be second with eight points and OM third with six. The Whites and Olympique will play for all the marbles in Marseille, but the Whites only need a draw to go through. FC Zurich would be eliminated but may have a chance to move into the Europa League.
- And Milan and OM draw, not much changes and Milan and Real Madrid would be level at eight points and OM would be sitting on one less. With one match to play, the three teams would play for a spot in the Top 16 as well as the top seed. A draw in Marseille would assure Real Madrid a berth in the next round.
- And OM win in Milan, Real Madrid would remain second with eight points, but OM (eight points) and Milan (seven points) would swap positions. The Madridistas would need to win in Marseille to control their own destiny, but a draw would also suffice if Milan do not win in Zurich.
IF F.C. ZURICH WIN AT THE BERNABEU…
- And Milan defeat OM, the Italians finish as the top seed in Group C with ten points. Real Madrid (seven points), OM and Zurich (six points each) would play for the second spot in the last round of matches. A victory in Marseille would see Real Madrid go through, while a draw would suffice as long as Zurich does not defeat Milan.
- And Milan and OM draw, nothing would change in the table and the final matchday will decide the final standings. Milan would be in first with eight points, followed by Real Madrid and Marseille with seven each and Zurich with six. Every team will still be alive heading into Matchday 6 and they will all have a chance to finish as the top seed. In order to control their own destiny and ensure a spot in the Last 16, Real Madrid must win in Marseille.
- And Marseille win in Milan, The French side would take over the top spot with nine points. Milan and Real Madrid would be in second and third, respectively with seven points apiece. Zurich would be fourth with six. In order to reach the Last 16, Real Madrid must win in Marseille in the final matchday.
So we know all the possibilities. Its up to the players now to perform.
Just another Madridista
Post-match comments
Real Madrid Director General, Jorge Valdano offered his thoughts on the hard-fought match that saw the Whites come up just short. Manuel Pellegrini couldn’t hide his disappointment stemming from the final score, but he was pleased with his team’s effort. Xabi Alonso and Iker Casillas believe the team deserved more from the football put on display in the Camp Nou. Albiol, Sergio Ramos and Marcelo analyzed the Clasico in the Camp Nou after the match.
Valdano:
Pellegrini:
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November 30, 2009 | Categories: Post-match Comments, Spanish Primera División | Tags: Camp Nou, El Clásico, FC Barcelona, Iker Casillas, Jorge Valdano, Manuel Pellegrini, Raúl Albiol, Sergio Ramos, Xabi Alonso | Leave A Comment »