La Liga Campaign

[Juan]

Thread to post about Madrid´s progress in the Spanish league.

Today, we play a Madrid mini-derby against Rayo Vallecano, who hosts one of our future stars, Julio Alvarez. After trashing Oviedo in the Cup, I think we should definitely get the season back in track with this game. And, even though we play away from home, the Vallecas field has always been good for us.

Besides Raul, who´s still out sick, the absentees will be Celades, Flavio, Raul Bravo and Tote, all for technical decision. The latter one is specially surprising, given his great performance at midweek in the Cup. The rest of the troopers have all been called to the match.

Rayo will be able to field both of their Madrid loaned players, Alvarez and Dorado.

[Juan]

Starters: Casillas; Michel, Hierro, Helguera, Roberto Carlos; Makelele, Cambiasso; Figo, Zidane, Solari; Ronaldo

Our away winless streak also comes to an end, and the latter two consecutive wins should be enough to leave the crisis behind.

realmadrid.com impressions: http://www.realmadrid.com/web_realmadrid/templates/noticias/detallenoticia.jsp?idnoticia=35849&sec=1&subsec=0&esp=1

I´m obviously happy with the result, but I feel that Rayo should at least have gotten a draw. After Azkoitia´s first equalizer, they dominated the game almost to the end.

Also, Zidane leaving with some injury trouble leads to worry with the crucial CL match against Genk. Del Bosque has already confirmed that neither him nor Raul, already recovered, will make the trip to Belgium.

Something that could be interpreted as good news is the good performance of Julio Alvarez, who I think can be a very important player for Real in the future. Was always dangerous in the right side, and scored from a doubtful penalty to keep up with the Pichichi race.

Overall, a crucial win to prepare to the difficult future: hosting leaders Real Sociedad and, after that, the one we´ve all been waiting for.

[Juan]

Bad news: Hierro is out injured for the next few weeks. He´ll miss the derby, and Madrid´s medical services will focus on fixing him for the Intercontinental Cup to be played on December 3rd.

[Juan]

A very hard game in prospect for Madrid tomorrow: Undefeated leaders Real Sociedad visit the Bernabeu and, although they will remain top regardless of any results this weekend, we must aim to remove the "Undefeated" tag. Madrid players know the difficulty of the task, judging by their words of praise towards the Basque side.

After his sickness, Raul will be ready to return to action tomorrow, and possibly Zidane will too, although that´s not certain. That leave Hierro as the only hefty casualty. His spot in the team will be occupied by youngster Ruben. The absence of Macca is also noteworthy.

Squad list: Casillas, Cesar; Salgado, Miñambres, Pavón, Helguera, Rubén, Roberto Carlos; Figo, Solari, Cambiasso, Makelele, Flavio, Zidane; Raúl, Portillo, Morientes, Guti, Ronaldo.

[Juan]

I couldn´t watch the game. I know we drew, but could someone please tell me more?????

[Juan]

Some huge star bought by Florentino is injured and won´t play. No, it isn´t Figo. I´m talking about Zidane. He joins Hierro in the casualty list, and Celades and Tote (why don´t they give this kid more chances?) will be out for technical decisions.

The squad: Casillas, Cesar; Raúl Bravo, Míchel Salgado, Iván Helguera, Miñambres, Roberto Carlos, Pavón, Rubén; Makelele, Flavio Conceiçao, McManaman, Solari, Figo, Cambiasso; Morientes, Ronaldo, Guti, Portillo, Raúl.

Ronnie has stated that scoring at the Camp Nou would give him "great satisfaction". Let´s hope he comes through. Multiple times.

[Juan]

Without many of our important players, we managed to get a very important away point in El Clasico. A very tense one with the ball never crossing the goal line (well, it did but, you know what I mean, right?).

I have to speak about the condemnable actions of the more radical Barça fans when Figo was taking corners. They should be sanctioned, for a great club like our rivals can´t be suffering because of the small headedness of some of their supporters.

And a big thumbs up for Pavon, he was great filling up for Hierro. He has showed real maturity, and should be fighting for a starting spot now. Hopefully that will make our defense better.

[VivaBarcaInter]

It must be a tad frustrating having a conversation with yourself. I've done it many times, I know.

[Red Devil]

The behaviour of Barça fans was simply intolerable! Something need to be done with this! I cannot go on forever.

Otherwise the result is just like you predicted, Juan. Madrid is still some 5 points behind the Sociedad. Hope this improves in the next few matches, though.

Red Devil

[gnlvagosov]

what's our next game?

[lili]

I'm disspointed. Never saw madrid playing so bad, only lucky thing, Barca played even worser. There was no good action,
no combination, many missed handing over- can't believe, the best team in the world plays crap. In my opinion, the best men were Figo, Salgado and Pavon. The others sucked badly.

It's a scandal, Figo couldn't score that corner because of the idiotic barca fans. I think too, the match should be interrupted.

[Juan]

realmadrid.com impressions of the Superclasico:

http://www.realmadrid.com/web_realmadrid/templates/noticias/detallenoticia.jsp?idnoticia=36114&sec=1&subsec=0&esp=1

I really think this is the time to get up to form in the League. Valencia won it last season, and early on they got nothing but draws. Besides, we´ve already gotten points at venues that are traditionally hard for us, such as Riazor and Camp Nou. The upcoming schedule smiles on us (home vs Sevilla, away at Mallorca, home vs Recreativo, away at Malaga), and a good form Madrid should be able to get 10 of those 12 points before the crucial match, hosting Valencia.

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by Red Devil
The behaviour of Barça fans was simply intolerable! Something need to be done with this! I cannot go on forever.



Agreed. The club itself will be heavily fined like last time.

[Strike]

Figo Figo Figo. Sure is that we had won with a very regular goal.
And the worsest man in Stadion was the ref. not behalves figo
thats ok, but the goal that he's not given, I would take him away
the ref. license for 2 years at minimum. Cause that ref knows
at many at a kid of 8 years.
But Remeber Real fans ---> the luck will end once a day.

[Juan]

Small correction: The match against Sevilla has been postponed to January 2nd, to give Madrid room to prepare the Intercontinental Cup match against Olimpia, next Tuesday.

[Juan]

What a way to get back to Liga action! We stopped Mallorca´s hot streak, and on big style, away from home. A certain fat Brazilian striker kept up his hot form by scoring twice, Raul added another two, and Guti closed up the rout. A former Madridista, Eto´o, scored the consolation goal for Mallorca (although it was the tying goal then).

Unfortunately, I couldn´t watch the game (I think they didn´t even play it on ESPN), could someone else tell more about it?

[lili]

Yeah, it's surprising, how the fat Ronnie is still scoring. :p
I knew it, guys. :D
He's still the Number 1 in football, you like it or not. :smoking: ;)

[Red Devil]

Well, Madrid is still 8 points behind Sociedad. Only 12 matches played, but still... it is a lot. We have to start winning consecutively. This 5-1 win can only be a start.

Red Devil

[barça]

Originally posted by Juan
What a way to get back to Liga action! We stopped Mallorca´s hot streak, and on big style, away from home. A certain fat Brazilian striker kept up his hot form by scoring twice, Raul added another two, and Guti closed up the rout. A former Madridista, Eto´o, scored the consolation goal for Mallorca (although it was the tying goal then).

Unfortunately, I couldn´t watch the game (I think they didn´t even play it on ESPN), could someone else tell more about it?

Actually, Juan, it was a pretty even game for a while. Mallorca had two incredible chances to go ahead, turned away by Casillas, had it not been for that it would had been a different game. Hard to see in a 1-5 game, but the best player was indeed Casillas. Helguera, one more time, was the weakest, once Marquez or Chivu come in, he might be the one going to the bench, unless RM makes the mistake of giving up on Makelele.

Right after the chances by Mallorca, RM scored twice (the "fat" guy did not miss) and it was all over. Mallorca's heads were down and that was it.

[Juan]

Just when we were flying back up, and after the Lokomotiv fiasco, we need the rest all doubters now. The occasion is ideal, playing at home against Recreativo, a team propping up the table and with a squad that, frankly, belongs in Segunda Division. Let´s hope for a better result this time.

[Juan]

Madrid lineup: Casillas; Salgado (Miñambres, 55’), Pavón, Helguera, Raúl Bravo; Flavio, Cambiasso (Solari, 46’); Figo, Raúl, Zidane; Guti.

Recre lineup: Luque; Javi García, Alex, Loren, Espínola; Cubillo (Bermejo, 75’), Camacho; Kaiku, Viqueira, Oscar Arpón (Benítez, 67’); Raúl Molina.

A very open, entertaining match. The reason why we won is a simple one: The sheer difference in squad quality between both teams. The result really flattered us and, had our rivals been something like Real Sociedad, we would have been seriously defeated, specially after our awful first half.

Recre started with the shocker early on, with Cubillo nailing a long range shot with an open goal, after Casillas had to come out to stop a Raul Molina couterattack. It was 0-2 Recre when quick passing play near the area ended with left back Espinola scoring from a Molina pass. Madrid closed the gap near the end of the first half with a beautiful Raul Bravo long range lob. Helguera (who had large responsability in both Recre goals) pulled even, heading a corner. Raul put us ahead, scoring after a beautiful movement in the area, dribbling past two defenders, and Figo closed the scoreboard from the penalty spot, with Espinola on the goal due to the red card Recre goalie Luque got previous play.

I have to speak good words about Recreativo, who played a fast, open game with offensive mentality, and didn´t give up, not when they were two goals ahead, not when they lost the advantage. After Madrid went back to good form in the second half, it was really a great sight.

I think the best player on the pitch was Solari. After his inclusion, Madrid gained in attacking balance, pushed forward more succesfully, and he opened the Recre defense on that flank with some ease. Thankfully he won´t be going anywhere now. I also have to speak about Cubillo, Viqueira and Molina. The first two gave a lot of balance and great ball movement to the Recre midfield, and the latter was always dangerous for our defense, playing a large part in both of his teams´ goals.

Well, we keep climbing up the table, up to third place (tied with Celta), but a good eight points behind Real Sociedad. To keep up, we must take all six points from our next matches (away at Malaga, and at home vs Sevilla), prior to a crucial match against Valencia.

[barça]

Excellent post Juan, especially your thoughts about Recre and the fact that had it not been Recre, Madrid would have been in serious trouble.

Solari was one of the best, but Raul was awsome, his go ahead goal was incredible, quick move to his right and he was clear. Well done.

I would be concerned with Helguera as a central defender, once again, I don't understand the love affair with him, he showed yesterday that he is the weakest link. Pavon was also, non existent yesterday. He needs to improve if he wants to continue to get playing time.

The goal by Raul Bravo (I agreem with Saez about his continued selection for Spain) was one of the best of the weekend, along with Luque of Deportivo.

[BLAUGRANA]

Yes, very good post Juan.

One thing though. You guys could have laid down and died after going down 2-0, but you didn't. That's always a good sign regardless of who you play.

Nice to see Mr. Bravo getting his just desserts. He's one of Real's brightest stars for the future IMO.

[Juan]

I´ll take this opportunity to say: Keep an eye on Recre´s Benitez. A young and very skillfull left winger who supposedly is already attracting interest from Valencia.

[Juan]

Oh and, by the way, Madrid beat Malaga 3-2 in the final game of the year. A little late, isn´t it?

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by Juan
I´ll take this opportunity to say: Keep an eye on Recre´s Benitez. A young and very skillfull left winger who supposedly is already attracting interest from Valencia.

Interesting Valencia would be interested. They already have Vicente and Kily.

[Juan]

Happy new year everyone! :D

As we all know, Madrid gets back to Liga action slightly earlier than most other teams, with the postponed match against Sevilla to be played this afternoon. Del Bosque started preparing the match in the final days of 2002 with the ususal methods (curiously including a game with the single players of the squad against the married ones. The earlier won 4-1).

The squad for the match is: Casillas, César; Salgado, Miñambres, Hierro, Helguera, Pavón; Celades, Flavio, Makelele, Zidane, Solari, Figo; Guti, Morientes, Raúl, Ronaldo.

Most notably missing in that squad is Cambiasso, who left to vacations with physical problems, and surely couldn´t get back to top form.

[Juan]

Well, it was really a happy new year for Madrid. A good win that lifts us to 2nd place in the table. Raul scored again, along with Flavio Conceiçao (who seems to have returned to Del Bosque´s plans) and Zizou. The bad news is Salgado´s injury, still undetermined for how long will he be out.

Check out lallou´s thread for more info.

[barça]

Originally posted by Juan
Well, it was really a happy new year for Madrid. A good win that lifts us to 2nd place in the table. Raul scored again, along with Flavio Conceiçao (who seems to have returned to Del Bosque´s plans) and Zizou. The bad news is Salgado´s injury, still undetermined for how long will he be out.

Check out lallou´s thread for more info.

Flavio did not have a good game in spite of the goal, Cambiasso was not left out because of injury but of a coaching decision, Del Bosque refused to comment other than to say that Flavio would play for him. I wonder what Cambiasso did to deserve that, I know that he was not playing that well as of late, but to not included him on the list of available players?

This was a game dominated by Madrid, it seem as if Sevilla was protesting the January 2nd play date, and it puts Madrid in great position to stay on top.

The tackle on Slagado was nasty and on purpose by one of the dirtiest player on the league, Pablo Alfaro, I hope he gets suspended. Salgado should be out only one game.

[Juan]

Oh I read, Cambiasso was left out because he arrived out of form from his honeymoon. Or at least that had something to do.

[Juan]

Today, a key match for aour title aspirations, we host defending champions Valencia at the Bernabeu. As I said some time ago, we´ve had a good stretch in the Liga, and have won all games since the Superclasico. This is one of the big test for both team´s aspirations.

It has to be noted that Del Bosque wont be coaching for Madrid, due to the death of him mother. Our condolences from all of us at WSB.

Cambiasso returns to the match squad after being left out for the Sevilla game, and the four players in doubt (Michel, Raul, Figo and Guti) are all fit for the game. Who isnt is Morientes, who got injured during training.

Squad: Casillas, César; Salgado, Miñambres, Hierro, Pavón, Helguera, Roberto Carlos, Raúl Bravo; Cambiasso, Figo, Solari, Zidane, Makelele, Flavio; Raúl, Portillo, Ronaldo, Guti.

[gnlvagosov]

I'd go for a 2-2 tie:)

[barça]

Originally posted by Juan


It has to be noted that Del Bosque wont be coaching for Madrid, due to the death of him mother. Our condolences from all of us at WSB.

Cambiasso returns to the match squad after being left out for the Sevilla game.

I meant to post this here, somehow I put this somewhere else.

Cambiasso makes the team again but will start on the bench. I just heard the starting team for Valencia and Palop will continue on goal even though Cañizares is ready to go. I guess is hard to deny 1 goal in the last five games. Palop has been amazing.

BTW, Del Bosque will be at the game.

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by barça


BTW, Del Bosque will be at the game.

Isn't that to be expected? :confused:

[JD]

1-0 great ZZ through ball
Ronaldo burnt away and rounded Palop

[Red Devil]

Great and important victory against Valencia. Good performance especially from Roberto Carlos, Zidane and Portillo. That's the way to go! Only 3 poinst behind Sociedad.

Red Devil

[barça]

Originally posted by AZULGRANA
Isn't that to be expected? :confused:

Actually it wasn't, his mother died on Friday.

[Lallou]

I sadly didn't see the match 'cause it was very late. I was supposed to go to the hospital.
So, Del Bosque did show up?? Weird, I thought he would be all sad.
I really hope their win cheered him up.
Poor couch! :(

[BRN-313]

w00t 4-1

great day for Real Madrid who played excelant football.

though i saw saw some sloppy defending from Hierro

zidane absolutly rocked the asset he gave Ronaldo for the first goal was amazing it .
it like he measured the distance to the milimeter between him and ronaldo taking into account the soggy pitch :shocked:

and then his own goal and he set up portillo with and another excellant asset.

Roberto Calos was also great.

too bad about Valencias preformance especially Aimars.

[gnlvagosov]

Real Madird played extremely well, IMO man of the match is Zizou.
Roberto Carlos played well aswell.

[Juan]

R. Madrid: Casillas; Michel, Hierro, Helguera, Roberto Carlos; Makelele, Flavio; Figo, Zidane, Raul; Ronaldo

Valencia: Palop; Curro Torres, Ayala, Pellegrino, Carboni; Rufete, Baraja, Albelda, Fabio Aurelio; Aimar; Carew

The heavy rain over Madrid didn´t dampen the will of both teams to play a good game, each one by their particular style (BTW, it was quite a footballing day for me yesterday: I saw this one, the Ecuador-Uruguay U-20 match, and the final minutes of Villareal-Atletico and Barça-Recre).

The game started evenly enough, with both teams resorting to their guns to bring danger. Ronaldo´s opener, beautifully assisted by Zidane, opened a phase of Madrid domination that lasted until the half time break. In the second half Valencia pushed forward more, with Ayala scoring the equalizer heading a free kick (BTW, the first headed goal Madrid lets in in all of the Liga season), and was close to going ahead a few times. However, two quick yellow cards for Aimar (the second one was debatable) definitely turned the tide in favor of Madrid. Zidane shot from outside the area for the second goal (partly deflected by Pellegrino), Guti scored a beautiful volley from a R.Carlos pass, and Portillo closed the rout with an easy tap in after a marvelous Zidane play.

Going to the best players, Zidane may have been a bit intermitent, but footballing poetry came out of his feet when he was on form. Scored himself, assisted two goals, and created all sorts of chances, and thats´s why he gets my Man Of The Match vote. Makelele deserves mention, he provided the push, the ball winning, some organizational skills, and dried Aimar out of the game. Among Valencia, I think Albelda had the better day, providing the push forward during his team´s best moments, and tried his best to stop the Madrid avalanche afterwards, before he was substituted.

[Juan]

Zidane - "I don´t remember how my plays were"

You gotta be kidding, right?

[barça]

Originally posted by Red Devil
Great and important victory against Valencia. Good performance especially from Roberto Carlos, Zidane and Portillo. That's the way to go! Only 3 poinst behind Sociedad.

Red Devil

Portillo????

What game did you watch? Portillo came in with no minutes left on regulation, scores two minutes later on a easy tap in after a great individual play by Zidane on an already decided game. Wow!!! Talk about over-rating

[BRN-313]

subsitute Portillo for Raul and your words would be correct Red Devil

[Juan]

Today, we play one of the hardest visits of the Liga season, going to Vigo to play against Celta, hurt in it´s pride for losing the Galician derby against Depor.

As I have reported, Solari will be left out of the squad for his transfer problems. Also absent will be Hierro, who saw his fifth yellow card against Valencia.

Madrid is playing as the better team right now, and could reach the top of the table with a win and a Real Sociedad loss.

Squad: Casillas, César; Salgado, Pavón, Rubén, Helguera, Roberto Carlos, Raúl Bravo; Makelele, Flavio, McManaman, Cambiasso, Zidane, Figo; Raúl, Ronaldo, Portillo, Guti.

[barça]

A surprisingly afraid Vigo and a midfield controlled by no one made for a boring game and a win for Real, even if the goal came on a mistake by the GK. Ronaldo adds to his tally of pushing loose balls into the net. Flavio again in for Cambiasso, although his play is poor.

Perhaps the worst game from Madrid in which they still won but Celta was worse. Celta has to be amongst the teams playing the worst soccer in Spain. I will expect a lot of pressure for the Galician press.

La Real on the other hand, came back to tie Valencia 2-2 and remain a top. Valencia, by the way, gets screwed by the refs another week in a row (last week second yellow on Aimar was more than harsh), disallowing a goal by Carew for an inexistent foul. Valencia now with only one point in the last three games.

[Juan]

Good post man, good you gave it since I didn´t see the Madrid game. I saw a bit of Valencia-Real and Malaga-Barça

[nerazzuri]

zidane and r. carlos played the best

zidane assisted ronaldo and portillo:thumbsup:
and especially the 2nd assist :bloody: . it was ***ken piss easy for him

it was easy for r. carlos to get past those 2 player on the left flank :thumbsup: :D

[Juan]

Your still talking about the Valencia game :rolleyes:

[BRN-313]

it was the best Real Madrid game this season.

the excitement hasnt worn off ;) :D

[Lallou]

Originally posted by BRN-313
it was the best Real Madrid game this season.

the excitement hasnt worn off ;) :D

Well said BRN, I think we all agree :D

Hala Madrid!!

[Juan]

Definitely it was.

The derby has been heating up for some time now, and many on the "other side" expect a top show by Fernando Torres, after his performance against Depor. We shall show them who´s boss in Madrid and all of Spain!

[Robledo]

Perhaps this deserves its on thread. Any predictions? I say 2-1 Real.

Btw, who will start up front for Atletico? Torres by himself, or WITH Jose Mari?

Also Jesus Gil says Real turned his back on Real. But didn't he leave Atletico because they closed down their youth academy? They made a BIG mistake

[tok87]

I will chear 4 Atletico - no offence.

[barça]

Shouldn't this be on La Liga thread? Why open a new one?

[Robledo]

Like I said, it's a MASSIVE derby game. Perhaps it deserves its own thread

[Red Devil]

Sociedad won, Valencia won, so we clearly need to win - especially against Atletico!

Red Devil

[OAnimal]

7:0 for Real. 6 goals Ronaldo, 1 Casillas from penalty kick. :D

[gnlvagosov]

Originally posted by OAnimal
7:0 for Real. 6 goals Ronaldo, 1 Casillas from penalty kick. :D

you dream alot don't you?

[Juan]

Perhaps if it were 6 goals Raul... but what Animal says is good enough :D

[Robledo]

Wow, what a game ! It ended 2-2.

Figo missed a penalty, that would have made it 3-1.

Instead Burgos made a superb save to deny him a hattrick (81st min). Albertini punished Real with a 95th minute equalizer from a free kick !

Real should have won on chances alone, but Raul missed 3 easy chances which is very uncharacteristic of him

[BLAUGRANA]

Figo won't be popular after this one.

[The Rule]

i don't know about that,he was Madrid's best player,scored two goals,and broke Burgos's nose!i know he missed a penalty but what about the hat-trick of chances Raul missed?

and shouldn't the second Athletico goal go down as an O.G?it was coming back out until it hit Cassilas on the head

[Sagitario]

REAL MADRID RULES!! They deserved to win, playing with 10 they draw and then made another goal thanks to Luis Figo.

[gnlvagosov]

they drew btw:)

[barça]

Originally posted by The Rule
i don't know about that,he was Madrid's best player,scored two goals,and broke Burgos's nose!i know he missed a penalty but what about the hat-trick of chances Raul missed?

and shouldn't the second Athletico goal go down as an O.G?it was coming back out until it hit Cassilas on the head

I agree, you don't see many games from Raul like that. If only Torres would have had a great game, then it really would have been fun to read the press for a few days. The Spanihs press, before the game started a big controversy about Torres vs. Raul, insane.

By the way, the worst player of the game was Garcia Calvo, almost solely responsible for everything bad that happened to Atletico.

[Juan]

A real thriller, even if it wast played at top level. Much unlike the borefest at Camp Nou a few months ago, this had the makings of a real derby.

However, with Real and Valencia winning, this leaves us in an unconfortable position in the Liga.

Will a mod please merge this with the Liga thread?

[Robledo]

Did anyone see the Fernando Torres / Cambiasso incident? I think it was towards the end of the game. Torres was actually punching Cambiasso in the head !

[tok87]

Good resullt 4 Atletico :)

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by Robledo
Torres was actually punching Cambiasso in the head !

Smart lad. Know wonder they rate him so highly.

[barça]

One thing that has not been mentioned was the tackle by Helguera. Nasty as can be and a well deserved red card. Not so amanzing was his protest, he is learning well from Hierro ("what foul? On me? Are you crazy?) This taclkes from behind when the player does not have the ball anymore are the worst.

I think he might get just than the normal one game suspension. Not very different his foul than that of Pablo Alfaro on Slagado and Alfaro got three games.

Thanks for merging the threads by the way:)

[rshepherd1000]

this was one of the best games ive seen all season, certainly much better than el derby

i have NO idea what helguerra was trying to do with that tackle, at first sight i thought the red card was harsh but the more i see it replayed the worse it gets (nice hierro analogy!)

[Lallou]

Me being unfortunate enough to miss the match, makes me unable to say a word about neither Madrid's nor Atletico's performances.

I am more than just surprised about the score, I honeslty thought we would win (no offence to Atletico that is, but we all know who is better).

I desperately want to see the match just to see if you all are exaggerating about how Raul did or if he really did do aweful.
Though even if he did, I see absolutely no reason why you should read to much into this, probably just a bad day, if he keeps this up, maybe then should you start worring.

[JD]

some1 was punching naybet in the head at the end of depors game last week (who where they playing again??) seems laliga needs a chill pill!

The madrid derby was awesome (I've already watched the video 3times!) amazing game 2red cards, 3pens (1saved) an injury time equaliser- this is why laliga is the worlds best!

[barça]

Originally posted by JD
this is why laliga is the worlds best!

Amen:angel:

[funky6]

some1 was punching naybet in the head at the end of depors game last week (who where they playing again??) seems laliga needs a chill pill!

The madrid derby was awesome (I've already watched the video 3times!) amazing game 2red cards, 3pens (1saved) an injury time equaliser- this is why laliga is the worlds best!

Agreed.Besides in Liga plays the world's biggest club,your beloved Barcelona.Right JD?:D

[barça]

Helguera's punishment will be two games. Light if you ask me, he has admitted to say to Javi Moreno to "watch out" before the tackle and the ref said that he was pushed by him.

Oh well

[JD]

Originally posted by funky6
Agreed.Besides in Liga plays the world's biggest club,your beloved Barcelona.Right JD?:D
er no I don't support Barca - is that a joke?

[funky6]

Ofcourse.(the beloved thing)

Actually it's kind of strange for an english to say that about La Liga:confused:

[Juan]

Tomorrow, we close the 1st leg of the season, away from home at one of the most erratic teams in La Liga, Athletic Bilbao, so we´ll see the older Superclasico of Spanish football. Real Sociedad won yesterday against Atletico, mantaining their undefeated run and proclaiming themselves Winter Champions, but we still need the win to keep them at striking distance, and to redeem ourselves after the Derby.

However, optimism reigns in the camp, and Del Bosque and some of the players, like Roberto Carlos, think that Madrid only depends on itself to win the championship. It´s in games like this one where they have to prove it.

As soon as I find a likely squad, I´ll post it.

[Juan]

Zidane recovered from ankle injury, so he could be in the starting XI (not sure though). Morientes, Cambiasso and Guti were unable to train properly due to sickness so they weren´t called, Solari is still blanked out, and Tote... well, you know. Those are the absentees.

The squad: Casillas, César; Salgado, Miñambres, Hierro, Pavón, Rubén, Roberto Carlos, Raúl Bravo; McManaman, Flavio, Makelele, Zidane, Figo, Celades; Raúl, Ronaldo, Portillo.

[Juan]

Didn´t watch the full game, so I can´t give the full review. Ronaldo opened for us with a tap in, after Raul (did someone cast a curse on him?) missed several shots. Just when we were playing the best, Athletic youngster Del Horno evened the scoreline. The Basques had their best moments then, but even so we managed to miss some chances.

Among our boys, I must say that Ronnie pulled off a good performance, providing a lot of push forward in our darkest minutes.

With Real and Valencia winning their matches, our Liga position becomes more unconfortable, and with the Champions League returning soon, we must cut differences soon.

[barça]

I didn't think that Ronnie had that good a game (although it was better than normal), he missed an incredible opportunity and the goal was typical Ronaldo goal. Terrible rejection by the keeper, then a mis-hit by a defender and an open net shot. At least it wasn't a tap in.

Roberto Carlos missed a header all by himself that was comical, him being so short and not being able to reach the ball with power.

Pavon was very impressive, taking over the overrated Helguera, he gets another chance next game as well, as Helguera go two games (unjustly so, his tackle on Javi Moreno, should have brought more)

This game make what Real Sociedad did in the first half even more impressive.

We should start a thread with 1st half scores for best, worst, surprises and predictions.

[Lallou]

Originally posted by Juan
Zidane recovered from ankle injury, so he could be in the starting XI (not sure though).

He did play, wich was unfortuante IMO. His ankle injury was not quite recovered I think. He wasn't that great.
I'd give him a 5 rate. Maybe 5.5, but that's all.

[Lallou]

Originally posted by barça
I didn't think that Ronnie had that good a game (although it was better than normal), he missed an incredible opportunity and the goal was typical Ronaldo goal. Terrible rejection by the keeper, then a mis-hit by a defender and an open net shot. At least it wasn't a tap in.

Pavon was very impressive, taking over the overrated Helguera, he gets another chance next game as well

Ronnie didn't have a good game. If you though it was better than normal, I can't agree. Even when he managed to get good passes, and nice dribbles the end with nothing!! Attempts that could have been goals if more focused.
The reason why ppl probably think that it wasn't so bad was because he scored, wich doesn't really prove anything, 'cause it was Raul that helped. He was just at the right place at the right time, nothing else.

Pavon was great IMO. I'm glad he will play again (no offence to Helguera, I just like to see him perform more).

Regarding Raul, another bad game for him, I just hope that it wil end soon. I thought it was a bit horrible but I still have faith is the Spaniard. He is such a unique player. Perfect most of the times (though clearly last night's match wasn't)

Just noticed something:

Real Madrid 1 - Athletic Bilbao 1

Real Madrid 2 - Atletic Madrid 2

could this be that start of a bad streak?? :)

[Juan]

Originally posted by Lallou
Just noticed something:

Real Madrid 1 - Athletic Bilbao 1

Real Madrid 2 - Atletic Madrid 2

could this be that start of a bad streak?? :)

Don´t even think of that! :mad:

[White Ranger]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Red Devil
[B]The behaviour of Barça fans was simply intolerable! Something need to be done with this! I cannot go on forever.

I don´t understand why Barca fans are so violent, even in discussion boards, they are so fanatic, even the Real Madrid hooligans are not as those Barca fans. They have to accept now Real Madrid is better.

[barça]

Originally posted by White Ranger
I don´t understand why Barca fans are so violent, even in discussion boards, they are so fanatic, even the Real Madrid hooligans are not as those Barca fans. They have to accept now Real Madrid is better. [/B]

Hey White ranger, I think that all teams have their stupid fans that get out of control. I have been to many Real games and they get out of control as well. As a matter fo fact just recently at the Madrid derby, los Ultra Sur beat some Atletico's fans right before the game.

All the violence is wrong, not only in sports.

Yes, Real Madrid is having a better time of it during the last years, but I would never change just becasue of that.

By the welcome to the boards and hope to see you post often.

[PopA]

yes welcome to the board, enjoy, and we hope you'll be posting here often.......
btw when was the last time barcelona won the liga?
and finally, anybody seen jochy_ms around?

[barça]

Originally posted by PopA
btw when was the last time barcelona won the liga?


98/99

[Juan]

Welcome White Ranger. Just so you know, the Madrid-Barça rivalry isn´t as heated over here as people might think.

[funky6]

Originally posted by White Range

I don´t understand why Barca fans are so violent, even in discussion boards, they are so fanatic, even the Real Madrid hooligans are not as those Barca fans. They have to accept now Real Madrid is better.

Welcome:)

The comment abt madrid fanatics was a little bit out of reality.I guess you 've never met or seen any of them.Fanatism and passion is not always bad,it's fun and into the spirit UNTIL a level.There are tons of anti-barça fans everywhere.

Anyway,it's his own job for someone to choose who he dislikes or not,who he accepts as better etcetc don't expect ppl to go for beers to watch a game together.

I don't want to start an argument i just don't get some questions and being a Barcelona fan nowadays is a sensitive affair.

I'm outta the Madrid board now,once and for good.

Welcome again!

[barça]

By the way, I forgot to add that Vicente del Bosque made no subs during last weekend tie with Bilbao. Not since 94 had Real Madrid not had a substitution.

Strange since ZZ, Raul and Flavio, looked like they didn't play at all.

I wonder if Del Bosque just fell asleep?

[Lallou]

Originally posted by barça
By the way, I forgot to add that Vicente del Bosque made no subs during last weekend tie with Bilbao. Not since 94 had Real Madrid not had a substitution.

Strange since ZZ, Raul and Flavio, looked like they didn't play at all.

I wonder if Del Bosque just fell asleep?

I saw the match and I must say that no subs was a huge mistake.
I was very shocked to see the same starting line-up in the second half.

Zidane, he probably wasn't 100% recovered from his ankle injury, or he just simply played bad during the match.
Rating: 4.5 or 5 maybe..

Raul, didn't do good either, but he gets a little credit, 'cause if wasn't not for him, we would have most likely lost the match.
Rating: 5 but I would give him the extra .5 thanx to his pass to Ronnie, so I guess a 5.5 is fair.

Regarding Flavio, not so good performance but I believe him & Make will be a good duo.

[White Ranger]

Originally posted by funky6
Welcome:)

The comment abt madrid fanatics was a little bit out of reality.I guess you 've never met or seen any of them.Fanatism and passion is not always bad,it's fun and into the spirit UNTIL a level.There are tons of anti-barça fans everywhere.

Anyway,it's his own job for someone to choose who he dislikes or not,who he accepts as better etcetc don't expect ppl to go for beers to watch a game together.

I don't want to start an argument i just don't get some questions and being a Barcelona fan nowadays is a sensitive affair.

I'm outta the Madrid board now,once and for good.

Welcome again!

Thanks a lot!!!!!
And don´t be so blind, just take a look at the Barca forum (In all these internet forums), full of attacks to Real Madrid comparing to Real Madrid attacks to Barca, take a look at the logos: Real Madrid burning logos and until now I haven´t seen anywhere burning Barca in RM forums.
Ok, I agree this kind of things is the spice of soccer... but Barca fans are out of limits!!!:annoyed: :annoyed:

Real Madrid vs Barcelona = REAL ROYALTY VS BARCA BARBARIANS

[Lallou]

Originally posted by White Ranger
Thanks a lot!!!!!
And don´t be so blind, just take a look at the Barca forum (In all these internet forums), full of attacks to Real Madrid comparing to Real Madrid attacks to Barca, take a look at the logos: Real Madrid burning logos and until now I haven´t seen anywhere burning Barca in RM forums.
Ok, I agree this kind of things is the spice of soccer... but Barca fans are out of limits!!!:annoyed: :annoyed:

Real Madrid vs Barcelona = REAL ROYALTY VS BARCA BARBARIANS

White Ranger, don't be so negative. O.K, though some of Barca fans (Maybe to you it's the majority) are like that doesn't mean all are. We often see "Barce" in the RM forum, and there is an exception.

Regarding Baca vs Madrid, true, that was 100% out of limits. It was truely pathetic, but still I have Barca-fan friends that know & admit that some are out of limits.

In every club there are their supporters & the ones that hate them. In every club, though with "rivalry clubs" (Barca - Madrid, Inter - Milan....etc) it shows more.
Yet, that doesn't give those idiots at the match any excuses for what they did.

[Mendieta]

Taking it to the level that the Barca fans did at the Nou Camp is just unacceptable. I've always been a Madrid fan since I was a little kid and same with my Dad, my brother, etc... So, you could say we're all pretty passionate about Madrid. I've also been taught from very small to dislike Barca, which I do. However, that still doesn't mean I'd throw a pig's head at a player I didn't like. Christ, even when Mendieta went over to Barca, I was saddened cause I would have liked him to come to Madrid, but I still like him as a player and respect him. There is nothing wrong with disliking players or teams, however there is a fine line between being passionate about your club and being insane.

[PopA]

the same occurs with the roma - lazio rivalry......
in my group of friends, there are about 4 laziali's and me as the lone romanista. of course when the derby comes i support roma with full enthusiasm, but it's not like i'm happy when a good player like fiore is injured severely by a dirty tackle, i also support the italian NT and i believe fair play is very important..... you know things like that in general

[barça]

Hey Mendieta, good post.

If you look back at the posts right after the derby, you will see that almost all of us cules, were against the behavior of the fans at the game. This board does have a rivalry between the posters as we root for different teams, but it has never been nasty (unless Il Fenomeno comes into it), quite the contrary, in the barcelona forum, we like when Juan and Lilli post. (Red devil is something else, as he will compliment Portillo for 1 minute of playing time:rolleyes: )

And, I think, that they like when we post over there. So when White Ranger comes in and in his first post starts attacking the barcelona posters, I think he is out of line. He is entitled to his opinion, but I like a little more than "Real Madrid is the best club"

Thats all.

I like the part on your post about being a fan since being a kid and that the whole family are fans and that you also dislike Barcelona.

I think that there is a cultural difference between Madridistas and fans of other teams in Spain and I would like your opinion on my observation. Madrid fans root for Madrid and dislike other teams. Fans of other teams, lets say cules, love their team and hate Madrid. They have little feelings over Depor, Vigo, etc. And the reason is that Madrid was the team of Franco and the goverment.

I have noticed this as a fan of Barcelona in Madrid. What is your opinion?

[Mendieta]

Well yes, it's definately political also, that's why the Barca-Madrid rivalry is one of the biggest in the football world. I do agree, that part of the reason why many people in Spain dislike Madrid is because it was essentially Franco's team. It partly explains why many Catalans are so hateful towards Madrid, because Franco was against allowing freedom of speech and expression of the Catalan culture during his reign which as a result added further fuel to this football rivalry. Alot of it also has to do with the region, as you mentioned. I myself live in Canada now, however my family comes from Valladolid. So, naturally we always cheer for Real Valladolid, as futile as it may be sometimes. But, deep down you will find that most Spaniards from Valladolid also love Real Madrid or Atletico because of the relatively close proximity to Madrid. And also cause we are all Castellanos of course! Because as we all know unfortunately there is more love for one's region in Spain then for Spain as a whole. I also recall a Basque supporter who told me that he disliked Madrid simply because he felt that they we're always given the attention in the media. I think deep down every Spaniard either loves Madrid or loves Barca regardless of whether they have their own team to cheer for. It's actually ironic that Madrid is one of the biggest teams in the World if not the biggest and can also be disliked by so many people. I guess that's the price of being so popular and having so many star players!;)

[barça]

Great post, Mendieta, thanks.

I guess you want Tote back, it could help your team quite a bit.

I think that the same issues that apply to the clubs, also apply to the National team, I have some catalan friends that refuse to accept that Raul is a great player. I also remember a Madridista saying to me, during the WC that Puyol did not deserve to start. I wrote a post in the Intro to Barcelona fans in the Barcelona forum about it.

I loved the country and everything it had to offer, I hope that Spain does well in the European Cup, Saez should do well.

[Mendieta]

Originally posted by barça
Great post, Mendieta, thanks.

I guess you want Tote back, it could help your team quite a bit.

I think that the same issues that apply to the clubs, also apply to the National team, I have some catalan friends that refuse to accept that Raul is a great player. I also remember a Madridista saying to me, during the WC that Puyol did not deserve to start. I wrote a post in the Intro to Barcelona fans in the Barcelona forum about it.

I loved the country and everything it had to offer, I hope that Spain does well in the European Cup, Saez should do well.

Actually that's a good point you brought up. It's true many people fail to recognize when a player is actually good just because he plays for the enemy. Man, doesn't matter if Puyol is playing for Milan! He's good and that's all there is to it. Same with Raul. he's one the reasons why Spanish football has become more well known outside of Spain. People have to give props to these players whether they like them or not. It's funny though living in Canada cause there aren't that many Spaniards, so when you do meet one on the street, we all put that regional crap behind us and just think of each other as being Spanish, not Asturiano, Castelleno, Catalan, Anadaluz, whatever... just Spanish. It's kind of refreshing.

[barça]

Originally posted by Mendieta
not Asturiano, Castelleno, Catalan, Anadaluz, whatever... just Spanish. It's kind of refreshing.

Refresing indeed, I understand how you feel, it has always been one my biggest observation to my Spanish friends, but only those who have experienced what you have, understand.

I guess you don't get too many hornos de asar in Canada? I am sorry to say that I have not been to Valladolid, but I am sure I will, isn't that where Columbus died?

[Mendieta]

I am sorry to say that I have not been to Valladolid, but I am sure I will, isn't that where Columbus died?

That's what they say. Apparently there is a tomb there. But, then again who knows. They also say his remains are in Honduras or mabye it's El Salvador. I forget, but some Central American country claim he is buried there. I think Italy even claims that he's buried there. By the way, trust me there isn't too much to see in Valladolid, not when your living in la capital. There is no comparison. Go to Segovia instead! Nice town.

[Lallou]

Originally posted by Mendieta
Well yes, it's definately political also, that's why the Barca-Madrid rivalry is one of the biggest in the football world. I do agree, that part of the reason why many people in Spain dislike Madrid is because it was essentially Franco's team. It partly explains why many Catalans are so hateful towards Madrid, because Franco was against allowing freedom of speech and expression of the Catalan culture during his reign which as a result added further fuel to this football rivalry. Alot of it also has to do with the region, as you mentioned. I myself live in Canada now, however my family comes from Valladolid. So, naturally we always cheer for Real Valladolid, as futile as it may be sometimes. But, deep down you will find that most Spaniards from Valladolid also love Real Madrid or Atletico because of the relatively close proximity to Madrid. And also cause we are all Castellanos of course! Because as we all know unfortunately there is more love for one's region in Spain then for Spain as a whole. I also recall a Basque supporter who told me that he disliked Madrid simply because he felt that they we're always given the attention in the media. I think deep down every Spaniard either loves Madrid or loves Barca regardless of whether they have their own team to cheer for. It's actually ironic that Madrid is one of the biggest teams in the World if not the biggest and can also be disliked by so many people. I guess that's the price of being so popular and having so many star players!;)

To anyone that lives in Spain or knows the answer to my question please, I would apreciate it very much if you could help me find the answer I need.

I know that in Spain, it's kinda divided into states, and some people from diffrent "states" feel quite strongly about others, wich is sad I belive considering that they are all technically Spaniards, and now my question is:

Can't poeple just separate Soccer from Politics?? I know it's hard, but I just think it's annoying when they link those two diffrent things together!! I remember a friend from Spian once told me:
The thing I hate the most, and could not stand, is when a person from madrid likes Barcelona!!
When I heard that I was very shocked & surpirsed that some actaully think that way.
I mean, what if a person from Madrid like the way Barca plays and admires it, what should he do??? Just deny??? I think it makes no sence.

I need to tell you that I know nothing about this subject, so to all those that actually know, if this seems like non-sence I do not just mean about soccer in Spain but everywhere!

Oh, one more quation, do you people believe that someone is required to cheer for a team just 'cause he/she lives there or is originaly from there?? And that goes to National Team as well.


Thanx in advance for answering (or atleast trying to ;) ) answer my questions.

Very appreciated :)

[Juan]

OK, back to our business here.

Tomorrow the 2nd half starts, and we could really use an away win. The rival is Espanyol, who we easly beat at the Bernabeu at the start of the season, but this is a different team, riding a hot streak since Javier Clemente took over.

The "periquitos" are reporting good ticket sales, and we might see the Olympic Stadium at full capacity for the first time since Espanyol moved there.

A small ankle injury will keep Makelele out of the squad. A strong casualty as all we know. The other absentees (Tote, Celades and Guti) are out because of technical decision, so the squad is:

César, Casillas; Miñambres, Míchel Salgado, Roberto Carlos, Hierro, Helguera, Pavón; McManaman, Cambiasso, Flavio, Zidane, Solari, Figo; Morientes, Portillo, Raúl, Ronaldo.

Come on Madrid, get the win. Do it as a birthday present for this humble supporter...

[barça]

Happy brithday Juan. With Javi Clemente this team is different. They just beat Deportivo last week, but Madrid always does well there. I expect a Madrid win.

[silverfox83_]

Well, we only got a draw, but I read we can be happy with it cause it was a difficult battle being 2-0 down...
Appearently Real scored two beautiful goals (R Carlos and Figo). I'll watch Estudio Estadio tonight...

Valencia keeps on getting closer. Just hope Sociedad will lose...

[barça]

Originally posted by silverfox83_
Well, we only got a draw, but I read we can be happy with it cause it was a difficult battle being 2-0 down...
Appearently Real scored two beautiful goals (R Carlos and Figo). I'll watch Estudio Estadio tonight...

Valencia keeps on getting closer. Just hope Sociedad will lose...

You will see that the Figo goal was a gift by Toni, even as an Espanyol player he gives goals away. No wnoder Atletico let him go.

Still a good draw.

[silverfox83_]

Sure, better than a loss, right? :D

j/k :)

[Lallou]

Hahahaha!! Sociedad!! First loss in the season! Ouch must be very disappointing for them.

In one hand it's sad really, 'cause they have been doing great throughout the entire season, though in the other hand this is good for Madrid, now the diffrence is 4 points,

Real Madrid: 39 pts
Real Sociedad: 43 pts

We need to win up coming matches if we have the No# 1 spot in mind, and with the UEFA CL starting again, the last thing we need now is to get into a non-winning streak. We are already last in our group (I think..) drawing with Loko was sh*t, losing to Milan was worse.
Next game against Milan better be a win. (away game?)

Hala Madrid!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[OAnimal]

Lallou, how did Ronaldo do against Espanyol? ;):D

[rshepherd1000]

Originally posted by Lallou
Hahahaha!! Sociedad!! First loss in the season! Ouch must be very disappointing for them.

did madrid pay that referee?

[Juan]

Not exactly the birthday present I expected. Sociedad finally lost, and that´s good for our aspirations, but there the problem that Valencia won.

[Lallou]

Originally posted by rshepherd1000
did madrid pay that referee?


Hehehe.. it was a sad 3-0 loss for Sociedad to Bilbao thanx too:

40' Fernando Torres

70' Emerson

87' Luis García

[barça]

Originally posted by Lallou
Hehehe.. it was a sad 3-0 loss for Sociedad to Bilbao thanx too:

40' Fernando Torres

70' Emerson

87' Luis García

So it was a sad day for La Real Sociedad because Atletico scored three on Barcelona?

[Lallou]

Originally posted by barça
So it was a sad day for La Real Sociedad because Atletico scored three on Barcelona?

Hahaha :D:D

Yea, sorry for that, I am just too Psyched my exams are over that my brain keeps on playing tricks on me ;)

The real goaal scorers:
18' & 75' Joseba Etxebarria
90' Ezquerro

Sorry dude ;) :D

[barça]

Now it makes more sense.

Real Sociedad played what probably was their most difficult game the Basque derby is about as difficult as it gets.

[Lallou]

Originally posted by barça
Now it makes more sense.

Yea..sorry..
Silly me :D

[Juan]

Real Madrid vs. Betis. With the first game between these two remembered as the longest one in La Liga so far, both teams will be going for a win for their needs. With this being our first home game since El Derby, it´s a great opportunity to regain lost ground.

Two Madrid players will be reaching interesting numbers here. This will be Zidane´s 50th Liga match in a white shirt, but more importantly, will also be Hierro´s 429th, overtaking Gento in the all time list, with only Santillana and Sanchis left ahead.

Amon those who will not be there, Michel Salgado is out by accumulation of yellow cards. Flavio Conceicao´s physical problems make him doubtful, but Make seems to have fixed himself. After his little episode, Guti will be back in the match squad. So the squad is:

Casillas, César; Miñambres, Pavón, Hierro, Roberto Carlos, Helguera; Solari, Cambiasso, Figo, Zidane, Guti,
McManaman, Makelele, Flavio; Morientes, Ronaldo, Portillo, Raúl.

[barça]

Your starting line up:

Casillas
Miñambres, Hierro, Helguera, Roberto Carlos
Makelele, Flavio
Figo, Raúl, Zidane
Ronaldo

[barça]

Sorry, no Flavio, they decided in the locker room that he was not fit.

So Real Madrid starts the game with one defender in the bench, two midfielders and three strikers:confused:

As I sit here and watch the game, I wonder if the fans are even there. The Bernabeu is converting themselves into the quietest stadium in Spain.

All those changes by Perez and Valdano are bringing an elite crowd to the games and they are not the best crowds to make some noise.

[Juan]

Yeah, assitances are good. But the noise isn´t there!

[barça]

What a fun game to watch, this Betis team with a striker would be even more fun to watch.

For anyone who thins that Helguera is a good central defender, please watch this game. He is still looking for Joaquin, with a little better finishing Betis should have put a couple more in the 1st half.

As it was, Raul made a fantastic strike right at the end of the 1st half and changed the game, Pratts never seemed ready for it, after that it was as if Betis did not believe that they could win the game. A dumb penalty on RC in the corner of the area and Figo put them ahead. ZZ combined with Ronaldo (who played a good game) and scored a beautiful goal from putise the area and itno the right corner. Betis played even more tentative and it was game set match.

Ronaldo played better but missed a penalty horribly, but the ball landed back on his feet and he put it away, for a non-deserving 4-1 score (it was closer than that) that puts pressure on Real Sociedad and Valencia.

Denilson, Capi, Joaquin and Fernando deserved better, but the defense of Betis was not up to par.

[JD]

I read that Denilson totally destroyed minabres down reals right - is it true?
pity because imo Real NEED to replace Salgado (why did they let Geremi go2 'Boro?)

[Juan]

Well, Míñambres definitely had a tough day at the office, having to mark who was definitely Betis´ most dangerous man. But Joaquin and specially Capi were non-existant in the 2nd half, Varela was the one creating danger from the right, even though his shots ended far away from the goal.

My MOTM? Madrid had an even performance, making it hard to pick their best man (except maybe Miñambres), but to me, Make is the man, along with Denilson. Too bad Hierro had to leave injured in such a special game for him, specially when he was being one of the best.

[barça]

What Denilson did to Miñanbres was nothing compared to the move Joaquin put on Helguera in the beginning.

The Betis after the Raul goal, was not the Betis before that goal. For that Raul gets my vote as the MOTM. He stroke that ball so fast that Pratts was not even ready for it. And that changed the game.

Worst player in RM was Helguera not Miñambres.

[Juan]

It could hardly been better for us. Real Sociedad, Valencia and Depor all got only draws. The top of the table is within reach!

[cas]

Hierro will be out for 5-6 weeks with a damaged (right) knee ligament.

That would also mean that he'll be unavailable for all four of the remaining group matches in the Champion's League.

[Juan]

Well, that made things worse.

[barça]

Difficult game for Real Madrid this week.

Last year, chasing Valencia, Real lost 3-1 at Osasuna and the title chase was officially over after that.

I have always had Osasuna in a little place in my heart. Pamplona is just one of the prettiest places in Spain, this team is always fighting to stay, in whatever division they are in, they never give up, they run, taclke, defend, attack and now el Vasco Aguirre is doing nice things with the team.

Last, but not least, Osasuna hails from the land of the great Miguel Indurain, he along with Perico Delgado, are my heroes of Spanish sports.

Gerat weekend of soccer, Valencia hosting Malaga, Betis hosting Real Sociedad in the late Sunday night game (they will know all the scores), the catalan derby and a relegation derby between Racing and Rayo.

Enjoy La Liga everyone.

[Juan]

This weekend match is the visit to the north, specifically Pamplona, to visit an irregular Osasuna team. They have been up and down all season, but will hope to transfer their Copa Del Rey performances to the Liga in their struggle for salvation.

The injury crisis at the back will mean a 1st time call up for Cesar Navas, one of the centre back from Madrid B. Besides Hierro and Ruben, Miñambres and 3rd choice goalie Carlos Sanchez are unavailable because of injury.

The recent international friendlies, along with the Champions League returning next week, opens doubts about the player´s condition for this match. However, Del Bosque has assured that the boys are in good condition.

Match squad: Casillas, César; Salgado, Pavón, Helguera, Roberto Carlos, César Navas; Makelele, Cambiasso, McManaman, Flavio, Solari, Zidane, Figo; Guti, Ronaldo, Raúl, Morientes.

[JD]

can't believe osasuna won!
just watched Betis v sociedad and the san sebastian side where absolutely robbed in a great match
spoiled by one of the worst refereeing decsions I have EVER seen
2-2 in the 93rd minute betis sub Dani (who I think earlier as part of the wall ducked out of the way of a nihat free kick which bought RS back to 1-1) backs into the box and sits down
inexplicably the weak ref gives one of the softest penalties you will ever see
i'm very suspicious of some kind of corruption -
no ref is THAT inept
Betis went ahead with a good goal valera overlapping on the right while the defence worried about joachin - he floated a ball to the back post that hung and hung
fernado arrived late and high to head home
after nihat equalised in the second half (freekick)
he put RS ahead Kovacevic stumbled through and Nihat ran straight onto the ball (still in darko's posession) and smashed it home.
Filipescu scored a late late Betis equaliser - a fluke ball delivered froma corner behind him, he mishit a hook straight baclover his own head that looped in at the far post (possibly westervald could have done better he got a hand to it)

and the late stolen pen won it 3-1 for Betis who continue to push for the CL

I wonder if Sociedad can bounce back - they will feel they have been robbed as they leave delopera - good weekend for Valencia

[VivaBarcaInter]

Sociedad must be Gutted after that robbery. But the manager should be using things like this for motivation. After all, it WAS a totally undeserved win for Betis, and that's one of the hardest places Sociedad will have to go this season.

[Lallou]

Matchday 23 - Saturday 22 of February 2003, 19:00 hours (Spaish Time).

Real Madrid CF vs Valladolid CF

PROBABLE LINE-UPS:

Real Madrid: (4-4-2) Casillas, Salgado, Helguera, Pavon, Roberto Carlos, Makelele, Flavio or Cambiasso, Zidane, Solari, Raul, Guti or Ronaldo.

Valladolid: (4-4-2) Bizzarri, Torres Gomez, Pena, Mustafa, Oscar Sanchez, Chema, Jesus, Colsa, Oscar Gonzalez, Sales, Pachon.

Good Luck to Madrid!!

[barça]

You guys remember last years game? 2-2 with a false whistle by a player that fooled Helguera and Iker and resulted in a goal by Valladolid.

Lets see how RM responds after having all the off-field problems. They always do well, when they are in this type of situation.

[Juan]

Well, they responded good, although Vinny DB admitted to it being not a good game. 3-1, goals by Roberto Carlos, Ronnie and our fox in the box, Porti. Sales for Valladolid.

[barça]

It was a very weird game, Madrid played awful, but did not have to play well.

Big mistake by Helguera and Casillas on the first goal and quickly down 0-1, then the key to the game, a great save by Casillas and then a foul on Raul. RC then KILLED the ball right down the middle and tied the score. I thought that Bizarriz should have stopped the ball, but then I heard him say that he never saw it.

The second goal, was a great pass by Guti to Ronaldo and Ronnie stroke the ball well, but Bizarriz kind of stumbles and does not really reach for the ball and down 2-1. Valladolid missed some incredible chances to tie but that was that.

Macca was terrible, Guti, besides the pass not that much better. Ronnie other than the goal, was not at the game and finally Raul, a gema he would like to forget.

Of notice was that Moro was left out of the squad, vinny said it was for the best and no more comments.

Moro has lost the year.

On to Germany

[Juan]

The final third of the season comes close, and Madrid´s game now is the trip to the north to Alaves. Memories of Ronaldo´s debut with the white shirt come to mind. Will he repeat his brace?.

This Alaves team simply isn´t what it used to be, 14th in La Liga and have the worst defensive record on it, having been just killed by Depor a week ago. However their squad is strong and Mane knows how to use it, so we shouldn´t be too cocky.

As for squad news, Figo and Makelele will be out due to injury and suspension, respectively. Raul recovered at the last hour and will be there. So that makes the squad: Casillas, César; Michel Salgado, Pavón, Helguera, Miñambres, Roberto Carlos; Celades, Cambiasso, Flavio, McManaman, Zidane, Guti, Solari; Raúl, Ronaldo, Morientes Portillo.

[nerazzuri]

when ronaldo was playing for inter. i loved him
and i still do;) :D

a 5-1 thumping
beautiful skill by ronaldo:thumbsup:

[Red Devil]

Nice win. Let's see what Valencia and Sociedad will do with Celta and Valladolid!

Red Devil

[Lallou]

Full Time.

Real Madrid 5 - Alaves 1

Beautiful score.



THE MATCH:

DEPORTIVO ALAVÉS: Dutruel, Abelardo, Karmona, Geli, Llorens, Turiel, Magno, Edu Alonso (Ibón Begoña 58´), Tomic, Jordi (Iván Alonso 70´) and Rubén Navarro.

REAL MADRID: Casillas, Míchel Salgado, Roberto Carlos, Pavón, Helguera, Cambiasso (Guti 70´), Flavio (Solari 82´), Zidane (Celades 78´), Miñambres, Raúl and Ronaldo.

GOALS:
0-1, min.11: Ronaldo, cross shot, rounds up a counterattack by Raúl.
0-2, min.35: Raúl, a metre from the goal line.
0-3, min.64: Ronaldo, gets into the box with a great assist from Raúl.
1-3, min.75: Iván Alonso, header.
1-4, min. 77: Ronaldo, another counterattack.
1-5, min. 81: Raúl, only has to chip the ball into the goal after Guti’s great pass.

REFEREE: Javier Turienzo Alvárez, Castilla-León Referees Association. He cautioned Celades and Turiel.
OTHER FACTS: Liga Matchday 24. Mendizorroza Stadium, 11.351 spectators. Real Madrid was wearing its second kit in black.

realmadrid.com

[Lallou]

Full Time.

Real Madrid 5 - Alaves 1

Beautiful score.



THE MATCH:

DEPORTIVO ALAVÉS: Dutruel, Abelardo, Karmona, Geli, Llorens, Turiel, Magno, Edu Alonso (Ibón Begoña 58´), Tomic, Jordi (Iván Alonso 70´) and Rubén Navarro.

REAL MADRID: Casillas, Míchel Salgado, Roberto Carlos, Pavón, Helguera, Cambiasso (Guti 70´), Flavio (Solari 82´), Zidane (Celades 78´), Miñambres, Raúl and Ronaldo.

GOALS:
0-1, min.11: Ronaldo, cross shot, rounds up a counterattack by Raúl.
0-2, min.35: Raúl, a metre from the goal line.
0-3, min.64: Ronaldo, gets into the box with a great assist from Raúl.
1-3, min.75: Iván Alonso, header.
1-4, min. 77: Ronaldo, another counterattack.
1-5, min. 81: Raúl, only has to chip the ball into the goal after Guti’s great pass.

REFEREE: Javier Turienzo Alvárez, Castilla-León Referees Association. He cautioned Celades and Turiel.
OTHER FACTS: Liga Matchday 24. Mendizorroza Stadium, 11.351 spectators. Real Madrid was wearing its second kit in black.

realmadrid.com

[OAnimal]

Lallou, I told you that you will actually like Ronaldo in no time. :D

[Juan]

Beautiful, beautiful. The pairing up front was too much for them.

Heh, we´ve scored 10 goals against alaves this season, 5 from :ronaldo:

[Lallou]

Originally posted by OAnimal
Lallou, I told you that you will actually like Ronaldo in no time. :D

LOL...Well I must say, he did play. And it was a great duo I saw up front..OAnimal..you're killing me here..

:D

[Juan]

Valladolid 3 (Olivera 2, Oscar) - Real Sociedad 0

And, ladies and gentlemen, we are top of the table.

[barça]

Originally posted by Juan
Beautiful, beautiful. The pairing up front was too much for them.

Heh, we´ve scored 10 goals against alaves this season, 5 from :ronaldo:

And if you count the 6 from Depor and the 6 from Barcelona, it has to be some kind of record.

I like the post by Lallou, the goals description ay nothing of Dutruel. It should say:

"Dutruel proceded to let the ball go right through his legs":eek: Man is that guy bad. If he starts next week, I will be shocked. Alava is in danger of going down with that guy in goal.

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by barça


"Dutruel proceded to let the ball go right through his legs":eek: Man is that guy bad. If he starts next week, I will be shocked. Alava is in danger of going down with that guy in goal.

LOL! Thank God he's not playing for us. Someone's watching over Barca. :angel:

[Juan]

Why did your lot buy him in the first place is still beyond me...

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by Juan
Why did your lot buy him in the first place is still beyond me...

He was actually decent with Celta if my memory serves me correctly. I still didn't want him, but he was better for Celta than he was for us.

[Juan]

Revenge comes tomorrow, as we will look for all three points against the team that handed us the first loss of the season: Racing Santander. The home fixture seems a good opportunity to build on our newfound top status, and boost our top form for the Milan match.

Things have changed a lot in the Racing camp. With Piterman in charge (and I use that term in its truest definition), they have developed an attacking style of football that has gotten them results, gaining spots in the relegation dogfight. And many of their players, specially our loaner Munitis, will be all psyched up for the match.

In our team news, Figo will be back after missing the Alaves rout due to injury. Pavon is being watch by Del Bosque to see if he´s fit to play, and Ruben hasn´t been cleared yet. Helguera, Hierro and Carlos Sanchez are our clear casualties, and the squad is: César, Casillas; Miñambres, Roberto Carlos, Pavón, César Navas, Míchel Salgado, Míchel Salgado; Makelele, Flavio, Cambiasso, Guti, Solari, Zidane, Figo; Ronaldo, Raúl, Morientes, Portillo.

[barça]

Munitis is out Juan, he did not travel with the team.

I think Real Madrid can be in danger of looking past Racing and towards Milan.

We'll see.

[Sh_Brazil]

In the last match RealMadrrid won on C.D. Alaves 1-5 , Ronaldo’s three targets and the two goals scored by Raul proved the best way to celebrate Carnival in Vitoria., it was magnific ! The three goals of Ronaldo told every body that Ronaldo is the best , besides, Raul’s two goals put him ahead of Hugo Sanchez in the all-time top-scorer ranking with 208 targets .......Raul and Ronaldo made the most of the goals left by the locals in the midfield.Ronaldo is showing for RealMadrid that he's good and he can help them to win the CUP , i mean he really played good last time,,, you can't say {no} :rolleyes: ! :smoking: Ronaldo rocks , I'm with you MALADINI 03 ...................:star: :star: :star: :star: :star:

[JD]

yeah he was too good last time so RM told racing he couldn't play at the bernabeu!
good result + atletico did their neighbours a favour by beating valencia 1-0!(Ronnie won a pen-figo scored it, zidane converted a figo cross back post. portillo increased his rep as poacher of goals and guti smashed one in the top corner- 4-1)

[Lallou]

FT

Real Madrid 4 - 1 Racing Santandar

The Match:

Goals:
12' Figo - Real Madrid (Penalty)
42' Zidane - Real Madrid
47' Nafti - Racing
77' Portillo - Real Madride
88' Guti - Real Madrid

Yellow Cards:
55' Rubén
56' Javi Guerrero
64' Pineda
73' Borja Neru

REAL MADRID:
Casillas; Salgado, Pavón, Rubén, Roberto Carlos; Makelele, Flavio (Guti, 66’), Figo, Zidane (Figo, 80’); Raúl y Ronaldo (Portillo, 46’).

RACING:
Lemmens; Corominas, Mora, Juanma, Neru; Nafti, Diego (Benayoun, 46’), Pineda, Txiki (Regueiro, 46’), Javi Guerrero; Bodipo (Ismael, 36').

[Juan]

I saw just the second half, and I must say that the scoreline flattered us a bit. Porti´s definer came at a moment where Racing were pushing forward, and the equalizer was about to come. It seems Piterman isn´t as crazy as we thought, huh?

[Hizbollah]

Guti's goal was AWESOME. He clocked the ball with his right foot and directly shot with the left. Nice goal.

[Juan]

I see no one updated this when I couldn´t log in, so...

Villarreal 0 - Real Madrid 1

Goal by Helguera.

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by Juan
I see no one updated this when I couldn´t log in, so...

Villarreal 0 - Real Madrid 1

Goal by Helguera.

At the death too. You lot pull out another one.

[Juan]

Yep. Didn´t watch the game, but all reviews said that we didn´t deserve to win.

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by Juan
Yep. Didn´t watch the game, but all reviews said that we didn´t deserve to win.

Take it anyway. BTW, check your PM's.

[Zek]

I watched the game and that's why decided to come over.

Real started good but Villareal was quite tough in tackling. So with the time the game equalled. Basically, Palermo was the major thread for Real and Farinos in the midfield. And Villareal's desire to play was also something great.

On Real side everyone played quite OK except for Ronaldo, who wasted his chances... If Ronaldo would have been subbed earlier probably Real would get a deserved victory.

btw: Reina is pretty good GK

[barça]

I was out and missed the game, saw the highlights and Cassillas made some great saves.

Real Madrid is well in their way for La Liga.:(

[Sh_Brazil]

:silly: :rolleyes: , do you know what all that mean ?
That's , that Ronaldo is gone , now when he playes he's just like invisible not body passe to him he runnunig up and down , up and down !! Because he's a good player they ignore him , not jealous ,,,, well i don't know if there are jealous but Ronaldo is never be the real Ronaldo , the Ronaldo who was a night mare for some people !!! :confused: , I don't think the transfare of Ronaldo to RealMadrid was good if he stayed i willed be more better but now ,,, :o i gusse this is the life !

:mad: No respect for Ronaldo , that's it !!!

[BLAUGRANA]

Originally posted by Zek


btw: Reina is pretty good GK

Agreed. He's no Casillas, but he's still quite young himself. Fortunately Barca can buy him back. Unfortunately, I don't know that they will. :(

[Lallou]

Next match for Madrid will be played against Malaga on Sunday.
Sunday 18 of May 2003, 19:30 hours (Spanish Time).

[Lallou]

Real Madrid 5 - Malaga 1

Real Madrid have managed to beat Malaga with the same scoreline that Madrid have been beaten, by Mallorca. :p:D

Match Info:

Goals:
3' Fernando Morientes - Madrid
14' Raul - Madrid
19' Roberto Carlos - Madrid
55' Fernando Morientes - Madrid
63' Manu - Malaga
83' Raul - Madrid


Yellow cards:
37' Garcia Gerardo - Malaga
45' Iznata - Malaga
67' Manu - Malaga
77' Miguel Angel - Malaga

I love you Morientes!! Hala Madrid!! Hala Morientes!!

[Lallou]

My dear Morientes!

[Sagitario]

Real Madrid is suffering, yesterday they dominated all the match against Celta, and in a stupid play Celta made the goal, then el Angel RAUL scored the Real draw goal. Figo had 3 good chances to score but goalkeeper stoped the goals, some other chances to score (It was a big difference from Celta) and no luck..
Unfortunately for Madrid, and unfair draw 1-1 was the final score:confused: :confused:

[OAnimal]

Congratulations to all Real fans for winning La Liga once again. :)

[Forward]

(I hate Real). they were better last year then now

[Lallou]

La Liga Season 2003/2004

[Lallou]

Real Madrid C.F Vs Albecete

Match Date: 12/11/2003 (TODAY!)
Tournament: Season 2003-2004 - Primera Liga: Round 12

[Leon of Silvren]

Why nobody post in this tread anymore?? Is there any Madrid fan alive here??
Almost 6 months without a new post.....

[Leon of Silvren]

And the crisis go on.......

Today, Madrid lost their 5 match in a row against the Real Sociedad, and also lost the final hope of the 2nd place and the direct pass to the CL.

[Seraf]

jazda jazda jazda, biala gwiazda!
(go, go, go, the wihite star!)

Greetings from Wisla Krakow fans :cap:

[Leon of Silvren]

Well, well, well, the month is now august, and that means that is time for a new season of La Liga to start, our team experienced lots of changes, first we got a new coach, a new defense, a new 'Galactico' and a new attitude, I feel that this Liga is ours, and that the sadness of last season will be forgotten with the joy of the rebirth of our team.

So folks from now on this tread is open to discuss anything reagarding the league campaign, feel free to post your opinions and comentaries along the way to our 30th league title. :)

[Lance Knight]

well so far it has been for Saturday 28 August, 2004

Atlético Madrid 2 - 0 Málaga
Numancia 1 - 1 Betis Sevilla
Espanyol 1 - 1 Deportivo La Coruña

on sunday which is tommorrow Madrid will face Mallorca

[Leon of Silvren]

We won over Mallorca 1-0 with a goal of Ronaldo with a great assits of Owen, the first half was very cold, pretty much as last season, but in the second half the team improved, they played pretty good the pressing on the midfield, and we recover many balls there, creating big chances.

Owen was great, Becks too, Zidane had a bad match and Raul got injured on the start of the match. Casillas was also great -as usual- making some good saves.

[Becks]

Figo had an off day, and Carlos had a near goal with that free kick. He did injure a player though and was not carded.

[Leon of Silvren]

Yup Figo played lame, and Zizou too, Ronnie had a decent match, he scored a goal and gave a great pass to Zizou but he missed the chance high. IMO Owen and Becks were the best players of Real, along with Casillas, of course.

[Lance Knight]

the starting line up was:

-----------------------------Casillas------------------
-Salgado--------Pavon-------------Bravo------------carlos
----------------------Beckham----Helegara----------------
------Figo-----------------------------------------Zindane
-----------------------------Raul--------------------------
---------------------------Ronaldo----------------------

i just hate it when they play their strikers like that, it is just stupid. but thankfully when owen came on he moved to thr right and ronnie to the left. i watched the game it wasnt a great porformance but we came away with the win so yea!!!!!!!!.
but i cant wait to see the pairing of samuel annd woodgate

[Ify]

Well after seeing the match yesterday I was quite disappointed. It was back to how they were playing in the 2nd half of last season. Casillas, Ronaldo and Owen were the best players on the pitch for Real. Beckham played ok, but he was better during that little 5 minute spell near the end of the match where he showed 'hunger' and he was running after balls and such.

The pitch was uncut and Owen found it very hard to play properly. He lost control of the ball at 2 vital occasions where the play could have ended in goals. Zidane made a terrible shot at goal which went yard over the bar. Figo also had a very bad miss.

The defending was poor and Real couldn't keep control of the ball at the most of times. The Beckham and Owen partnership proved something to look forward to. Off course Samuel and Woodgate weren't playing as if they were Real would have been the dominating team by far. 0-1 is an ok result for Real but Mallorca should have converted at least one of their many shots on goal.

[Becks]

Beckham realized that he had an off season last year, and he is getting hungry again. Vintage Becks shined through the second half yesterday.

[Leon of Silvren]

That match was like last season, except for two things: Owen and Beckham, Owen didn't contributed on much, but we could see a slight change on the attack, he was more eager seeking the ball, also his play style lightened the weight of Ronaldo -thing that Raul never do-.

And Beckham also looked more agressive, contributing more. All the other players played like last season, but hey it's the first match, and sure there are lot of thing that has to be changed, and a new defense that waits to have their debut.

[Becks]

Owen and Beckham = Ones to watch this season as far as teamwork.

[hezri]

not to forget ; Woodgate + Samuel

[Leon of Silvren]

Neither Bravo + Pavon. :rolleyes:

[Leon of Silvren]

Well this week there's no Liga matches due to international matches, damn I hate when that happens!!..... :mad:

[Lance Knight]

shit that is true

[Leon of Silvren]

Yeah it sucks, but it's kind of good to us, that way our defense has more time to recover....

[Becks]

Maybe by taking the week off, everyone will be able to get back into top form. I say this because we can all see that they weren't most recently.

[Leon of Silvren]

Especially Figo and Zidane that stayed training in Madrid, btw the media says Samuel will be ready to play saturday and Woodgate until the match against Leverkusen.

[Lance Knight]

well that is good news

[Leon of Silvren]

Yeh I hope that those predictions are right, we really need the new defense....

[Highway Penguin]

I'm looking forward to the match against Leverkusen. They seem like a good opponent. :)

I heard that they beat Bayern...is it true?

[Lance Knight]

yea Leverkusen beat munich 4-1. that was a pretty awesome match

[Leon of Silvren]

Bad news again, Samuel will not play saturday, they all hope both can be ready for thuesday for the match against Leverkusen.

[Highway Penguin]

Geez. I don't like the way our signings are moving. How bad did Samuel get hurt? I never really found out exactly what he did to himself...

[Leon of Silvren]

He got injured of his right knee during a training, and Woodgate was already injured when Real signed him. I don't like that situation either, but I guess all we can do is wait, hopefully until thuesday.

[Leon of Silvren]

Camacho will set the best 11 on Saturday's match - 10/9/04

Diario Marca


Real Madrid makes debut Saturday in the Bernabéu and Camacho could make the first rotations of the season, judging by the greater amplitude of group which it has and because this match will take place after one double day of international natches. Nevertheless, after verifying how the nine have returned summoned by their national equipment, distributed between the Spanish, English and Brazilian selection, the coah has determined that their better eleven will be the ones that jumps to the turf of Santiago Bernabéu. It means a continuity in the line of performance of the last season, that so many critics got to suppose for the then trainer, Carlos Queiroz. In opinion of Jose Antonio Camacho, is still premature to make changes in the line up, already conformed based on the losses of both centre backs contracted this season, Walter Samuel and Jonathan Woodgate. For that reason, and because the international returned with few annoyances and less overload of minutes, the coach of Real Madrid will not turn down the fans that are congregated tomorrow in the madridista stadium and will align the best eleven possible, always counting on the mentioned absences.

[Leon of Silvren]

Next Match: Real Madrid - Numacia, La Liga Round 2

Time (Spain):20:00

Stadium: Santigo Bernabeu, Madrid.

Referee: Perez Burrul

Posible Line-up:

GK-Casillas
CB-Pavon
CB-Raul Bravo
LB-R.Carlos
RB-Salgado
CM-Helguera
CM-Beckham (Celades)
MF-Zidane
MF-Figo
FW-Ronaldo
FW-Raul (Owen)

[Highway Penguin]

Well Camacho is a smart man, I trust him much more than I trusted that Quizero guy. To me he wasn't a good coach. I hope that Camacho can lead the team into some great victories. :)

I wonder if the starting line will be the same as last time?

[Leon of Silvren]

Well, a virtually easy match, agains a recent promoted team, but like Casillas said, 'one of these matches can make you win or loss the title', besides is a little team with nothing to lose, and that is very dangerous, hope we come out well from this match......Hala Madrid!!

[Leon of Silvren]

Agreed, Queiroz was one stuborn fool, Camacho looks like an excellent coach, let's see what he has for us.....

And the line-up that I posted is the most likely, the only doubts are Beckham -with pain in the ribs- and Raul.

[Highway Penguin]

Next Match: Real Madrid - Numacia, La Liga Round 2

Time (Spain):20:00

Stadium: Santigo Bernabeu, Madrid.

Referee: Perez Burrul

Posible Line-up:

GK-Casillas
CB-Pavon
CB-Raul Bravo
LB-R.Carlos
RB-Salgado
CM-Helguera
CM-Beckham (Celades)
MF-Zidane
MF-Figo
FW-Ronaldo
FW-Raul (Owen)

I don't get why Helguera isn't starting in Defence, he does play there, so why not use him and put Guti in defensive mid? That would be my way of going about it. :)

I'd have...
Gk- Iker
CB- Helguera
CB- Pavon/Bravo
LB- Roberto
RB- Miguel
DM- Guti
CM- Beckham
RM- Zidane
LM- Figo
ST- Moro (If Raul is out.)
ST- Ronaldo
for this match only.

[Leon of Silvren]

Well Helguera is more defensive than Guti, and he can back up Becks' back better, IMO Guti and Becks can't play together, there'll be too much holes in the defense....

[Highway Penguin]

When Real played Benefica they seemed to play pretty well. And I heard that that is how they wanted to play, but I'm not sure. I like Guti quite a bit, he is one of my favorite players, even though people hate him.

[Leon of Silvren]

He's a good player, would be better if he would play more eager, sometimes he looks like without wanting to play, I don't know, maybe it's just me......

[Highway Penguin]

He has been kicked aside quite a bit the last two seasons. Just cause of the arrival of Beckham, and Samuel/Woodgate. He was starting games before Woodgate came, I think. And Beckham well, he has to start. :) Guti came up through the Junior teams, if I'm not mistaken.

[Leon of Silvren]

Yes he was one of the many Real's junior players, and I remember that he had a great start of season like 2 years ago, playing as striker he scored lots of goals and playing quite fine, but with the arrival of Ronaldo his stay got more complicated, and with the later sign of Becks even more.

Sad for him, just hope Camacho can be able to play the rotations properly.... ;)

[Lance Knight]

yea true guti is a great player, and i doubt he would every leave madrid for a starting postion in another team cause he loves madrid. and knows that he will start occasionally, and it gives him more of a chance to improve his game.

[Leon of Silvren]

1 - REAL MADRID

Casillas; Salgado, Pavón (Guti 54´), Raúl Bravo, Roberto Carlos; Helguera, Beckham, Figo, Zidane; Raúl (Owen 67´) y Ronaldo (Morientes 80´).


0 - NUMANCIA

Núñez; Graff, Pignol, Ochoa, Velasco (Miguel �ngel 65´); Pineda, Molina, Kiassos (Lee Chun Soo 54´), Palacios (Merino 77´); Ros y Tevenet.


GOALS:
1-0, min 16': Free kick from Beckham


REFEREE:

Perez Burrul, Yellow Cards: Graff (28')

STATISTICS:

---------------Shots-----Offsides---Corner Kicks----Fouls
Real Madrid------9----------7-------------6---------15
Numancia-------13----------2-------------5---------16

[Highway Penguin]

Hm, Real only had 9 shots on goal. While Numancia had 13? Geez. Good to see that Morientes got to play, and Owen. How did they play? Guti, played. :) Good stuff.

Nice report.

[Leon of Silvren]

Well Madrid had 9 shots but 1 was a goal and 4 were very clear chances. Numacia had from none to little clear chances.

And IMO Owen looked better than Raul, and Camacho waited too long for sub Ronaldo for Moro. A decent match by our team, but we got the 3 points and this is just starting.....

[Leon of Silvren]

1-0: Liga competition returns to Bernabéu - 11/09/04

Real Madrid Official Site


http://www.realmadrid.com/web_realmadrid/mmedia/000/000/044/141.jpg
After five months, Real Madrid got back to its winning habit in a home Liga match. Beckham’s target brought his team the second win of the season. Numancia fought hard and was very keen but without the necessary drive. The Englishman and Zidane stood out as the best players in the game. Michael Owen made his official debut in front of his fans when he came on for Raúl. The only bad news about this matchup was Pavón’s injury. The defender had to leave the field with a blow on his hips. Bayer Leverkusen will be next rival in the opening match of the Champions League next Wednesday.

http://www.realmadrid.com/web_realmadrid/mmedia/000/000/044/142.jpg
It was the opening match of the Liga season in Bernabéu and the fans wanted to show all their support by filling up the stands of the stadium. Samuel and Woodgate were not available and Camacho made the same lineup as he did in Mallorca. The international commitments were over and now was time to focus on the Liga competition. Figo was the first one who began with the hard work, especially when he was marking Graff. It seemed that Numancia, with the support of over 3000 of its fans at Bernabéu, was dreaming of the surprise of the matchday.


Fantastic Zidane; precise Beckham

Madrid only took ten minutes to get down to work and put an end to the truce. Zidane and Beckham got into the game very nicely leaving the opposing players no other choice but to watch the ball flashing from one white player to another. The French and the English were to blame for the target of the night. Zidane was tackled very severly at the edge of the area, which made Beckham smile with the prospect of taking one of his free kicks. The foul on Zidane gave the English the chance to shoot a missile from 30 metres. The only thing the visiting keeper could do was to watch how the ball get in (16’).

http://www.realmadrid.com/web_realmadrid/mmedia/000/000/044/143.jpg
Numancia was finding it hard to get beyond the centre of the field, and the only chance it had was when a shot from the front of its area resulted in a counterattack that made Casillas’ position noticeable. Zidane was setting the pace of the game and Figo, Ronaldo and Raúl were very good at their charges on the rival area. By halftime, Real’s control was pretty overwhelming, so the win did not seem to be jeopardized at any time, though this situation was to change in the early minutes of the second half.


Dangerous situation

Except for a one-off charge by Figo, Madrid failed to put the game back on track. The visiting side raised to the challenge and exerted more and more pressure. Besides, Pavón had to be replaced by Guti after a collision with Casillas. This change put Helguera in the centre of the defence, while Guti played along with Beckham. The win did not seem so secured now. Camacho noticed the uncertainty of the result and replaced Raúl (67’) by Michael Owen, who made his debut at Bernabéu in an official game.

http://www.realmadrid.com/web_realmadrid/mmedia/000/000/044/148.jpg
Morientes also had his chance in the late part of the match, but the play has grown very flat. Today’s match is the second win for Real in two games. The win could have been consolidated with a counterattack by Owen, but Núñez was there to save. Now it is time to think of the European challenge against Bayer Leverkusen.

[Lance Knight]

real is targeting Gerrad of Liverpool now. this is something to look at cause Gerrad already admitted that he wants to leave liverpool sometime in the near future

[Ify]

Regardless of what the critics say, I thought Real played pretty good. If the players had been on form, it would have easliy been 5-0 due to all the chances they created. Raul stumbling was just embarrasing, and I want him more than anyone else to prove to the world that he is one of the best strikers in the world. Heck I even think he's better than Ronaldo, but at the moment he is no better than a striker playing the lowest of leagues. Zidane was terrific in that match as was Figo and Beckham, easily the best 3 players on the field. Cassillas didn't have much to do. Owen should have converted both of his chances, but after he scores his first goal I feel his confidence will boost, and he will carry on scorring like he did at Liverpool. Also, a fantastic freekick by Beckham, as his previous like 10 freekicks all hit the wall. This was the first time in a long time he actually executed one properly and kudos to him.

However, Real need to convert 75% of their chances, as if they were facing the Barcelona's or Valencia's, they would suffer. Anyways, good luck to them with their Champions League match on Wednesday!

[Leon of Silvren]

That's true, Real had lots of chances, but it's not only that, they didn't had control over the game during the 90 mins, they just passed the ball in the midfield but they lacked ideas and tactic. The goal was product of individual efforts, and so the chances missed, a team can't get far if they don't play as a team. That's mainly the critics of the media, something is missing and no one seems to find it. If they play like that against Leverkusen they'll lose, that I can guarantee.

[Ify]

That's true, Real had lots of chances, but it's not only that, they didn't had control over the game during the 90 mins, they just passed the ball in the midfield but they lacked ideas and tactic. The goal was product of individual efforts, and so the chances missed, a team can't get far if they don't play as a team. That's mainly the critics of the media, something is missing and no one seems to find it. If they play like that against Leverkusen they'll lose, that I can guarantee.

Basically, they need what Arsenal have!!

[Leon of Silvren]

And what would it be?? Attacking forcefully??

[Highway Penguin]

I think he means, we need to play more like a team. Arsenal play very well, that is why they were undefeated in the Premiership, if Real wants to do that well they need to play like a team, they have the chances on goal they just need to confidence to finish them, and win games by large amounts.

The strikers can finish, they have proved that before, now they need to show it. The mids are all class. The defence.... Casillas is a great keeper. So we have the ingredients for a great team we just need the water to mix it all into a fine tasting beverage.


I think that that is what he ment.

[Leon of Silvren]

LOL about what you said about the defense, but remember we now have 2 of the best centre backs of the world, also Carlos and Salgado, is a very strong defense if sometime they can play together.

And I don't, maybe the problem is what Camacho pointed before, too much luxury....they have to keep it simple and they'll win easily, but it's hard saying that to players like Zidane and Figo. Let's see if the two new defenders can fix the problems, because if not, I don't know what the solution may be.

[Lance Knight]

1-0: Fortune turns its back on Madrid at Montjuïc

18/09/2004
Although Real Madrid did not play the game of season, then one must also acknowledge it did not deserve a loss at Montjuïc tonight either. Espanyol was never superior in its play, and only Real's hard luck and a worst refereeing made the goals impossible for all the ninety minutes of play. First of all, Casillas got injured during the warming-up, then it was César who had to play with an injury for more than half of the match. The double penalty was the epitome of the hard luck, plus a most unfair sending-off for Samuel, which hampered the white reaction. Too many obstacles for Real, a team that is not going through its best times.
Madrid started off with a very serious approach to the matchup, putting all its lines closer together, leaving Solari to the left side, where he keep overcoming his country fellow Ibarra. Juanfra was positioned in the right of the pitch doing a good job in the early minutes. Helguera and Celades were succeding in beating his counterparts, whereas the defence did not seem to have much trouble in cutting off Tamundo, Dani and Maxi's charges. The outlook to the game was not too bad, as Madrid did actually have the control of the play over the early twenty minutes. However, its forwards Ronaldo and Owen were certainly lacking the necessary drive.
It had to be a back-line man who shot at goal first because Roberto Carlos had a go in the 10th minute. Then it was Owen who made a wonderful move on the left to fire a centre shot which Ronaldo missed by inches (21'). One minute later Ronaldo kicked a soft shot into Kameni's hands. Many tries and no hit for that time.

Double penalty!
Real Madrid started to lose control of the encounter when ref Lizondo Cortés gave a most disputable penalty in the white area, it seemed he was the only one who saw it. Tamudo took the kick to Cesár's left side. Real keeper made a fantastic save. Amid everybody's astonishment the ref ordered the penalty kick should be taken once again on the grounds of an invasion of the area. Tamudo took it again to the right side this time roud. César cleared once more to get his knee injured, he stayed on, though.

This confusing and lengthy situation threw Madrid off balance and made it lose the control of the game, which then went a bit flat. The rhythm went on like that until the 41st minute when Maxi made the most of a counterattack by his team. Espanyol took the halftime break with one goal in favour.

All the ammunition
Camacho took Pavón off, sent Helguera further back and put Guti on the midfield to arrange the white play, which certainly improved with the changes. A penalty in the 49th minute was the fruit of this improvement. Ronaldo took the kick but the home goalie was quick to prevent the draw for the whites. Real coach loaded the gun with more ammunition by letting Beckham on the field. The Englishman took over Juanfran's position, while Morientes came on for unnoticed Owen.

Madrid was then approaching the opposing goal more dangerously, though it was also leaving more gaps for its rival to come near the goal. Elizondo came up again with his worst refereeing and ruined all Madrid's hope when he sent Samuel off with two yellow cards. Both of them were most undeserved: the first was given for a penalty that nobody saw; the second one was given for a very common foul. To cap it all, he had previously turned a blind eye on Pochetino's rough tackling of Ronaldo, which undoubtedly deserved the sending-off. Madrid kept on fighting but the load was too heavy to lift.

THE MATCH
ESPANYOL: Kameni; Ibarra, Lopo, Pochettino, David GarcÃ*a; Ito, De la Peña, Maxi (Coro, min. 90), Serrano; Dani (Fredson, min. 67) and Tamudo.
REAL MADRID: César; Salgado, Pavón (Guti, min. 46), Samuel, Roberto Carlos; Helguera, Celades; Juanfran (Beckham, 55’), Owen (Morientes, 65’), Solari; Ronaldo.
GOALS:
1-0 (41´): Maxi, following César's save.
REFEREE: Lizondo Cortés, Valencia Referees Association. Yellow cards to Pochettino, De la Peña and Tamudo, in Espanyol. in Real Madrid: Roberto Carlos and Helguera, two yellow cards to Samuel (30’ and 77’) Salgado was sent off (+96')
OTHER FACTS: 2004-05 Liga Tournament, matchday 3. Montjuïc Olympic Stadium. Nice evening and field of play in perfect conditions. Casillas got injured during the warming-up and was replaced by César.

[Leon of Silvren]

Definitely luck hasn't been at our side this last matches, Ronaldo missing a PK, Figo, Zidane and Casillas injured and Samuel suspended.....

Cesar was great stoping the two PK, but IMO he had the fault on the goal.

[Leon of Silvren]

Well leaving behind the match against Espanyol we have to look forward, and that's thuesday with the match against Osasuna at home, it would be an easy match if not of this crisis, so the team have to watch out if they don't wanna be on the frontpage of all spanish papers again.

We'll face the match with a new coach, and with a spirit of change, hope both things are good for us, and finally the team start playing well.

[Highway Penguin]

I think that it will be like starting all over again. New coach, new team (mentaly), and hopefully a new attitude. Camacho left, so that has to show that they need to do pull it together.
I'm looking forward to the match.
What day is it Leon? Thuesday? Tuesday? Thrusday? A combination? ;) :D

[ItalianBoy]

I hope that with a new coach things will get finally better.
Hey Leon, do you make your own avatars and banners?

[Leon of Silvren]

Sorry for that, it was today, TUESDAY. :D

The avatar I did it myself, but not the banner, a guy did it, if you want one Itaboy just pm' me. ;)

[Leon of Silvren]

OK, now the match, it was a close 1-0 win, Osasuna played really defensively, and pretty well, they resisted. Morientes was great at the first half, so eager seeking the ball, but I think in the 2nd half he got tired and should had been replaced, even before Ronaldo that looks like starting to play normally, with few plays of old times, he showed that he hasn't lost his ability and speed.

The team played very well the pressing at Osasuna's field, forcing many mistakes but none of them crucial, Raul had a great game -IMO the best in this season- playing as creative mid because Solari got injured of the knee (great, add one more to the list, :mad: ), an hyper-extension for being more precise. Figo was the player of the match, showing why he's the only Galactico in keeping his game running at maximum, but one man can't change a team.

Beckham was invisible all match except in the wonderful goal he scored (he also looks like recovering that talent). The defense surprisely was fine, I expected much worse coming from Raul Bravo and Mejia (especially for playing out of position), but generaly they did well, the weak point of the team today was the double-pivot, Beckham and Celades, they haven't played together before, and they showed it. The team lacked of ideas -as usual- but I liked what I saw today, first the team's attitude looked changed, more hunger for victory, and second, the new coach, he didn't sat down during the whole match supporting the players instead of scolding them, and that's exatcly what they need now, support.

1-0, mediocre, but it means 3 poits, hope the team can keep improving, Hala Madrid!

[Highway Penguin]

Finally they played ok. After two loses they looked pretty down. The unfortunate thing of it all is the 1-0 win. That is the third this season, I was hoping they could pull atleast 2 goals. Winning by a goal doesn't look too great. Nevertheless it's a win. :)

They are playing Roma soon aren't they? Thursday?

[Leon of Silvren]

I think is next week, but I'm not so sure, go check the team's info tread.

And yeah I agree, they played well, but that wasn't reflected on the score, IMO the coach should've sub Owen for Moro sooner, and Ronnie for Juanfran at the 80' min, at the end we were strugged and Mariano didn't make the proper subs, but that's ok being his first match.

Interesting thing to point was that R.Carlos was booed all match long, wonder why was that....

[Highway Penguin]

Didn't he critisize Camacho before and after he left the job?
Kinda off topic I know, but I'm just wondering.

DId he play poorly? Coulda been why.

[Leon of Silvren]

Don't know, I'm wondering the reason too, and no, he played like always, good.

[Lance Knight]

they only booed him when he ran up field cause the defense was already shaky

[Leon of Silvren]

Nope, he was booed all match long.

[Highway Penguin]

I'm gonna say it had to do with his comments about Camacho and the team. He is a veteran on the team, so he has a right to say things that others don't. Senority. ;)

[Leon of Silvren]

Oh I see....what did he said??

BTW today we've a tough match, Bilbao is a very strong team, specially at home, also we have lots of absences, but Samuel, Guti and Salgado are back, so the match looks good, they just have to do their best to win, Hala Madrid!!

[Ify]

Well I just watched the match, and I gotta say I was dissapointed. Playing how they were against a team that hasn't even won yet was ridiculous. What was even more ridiculous was Remon's decision to play Raul Bravo instead of R.Carlos. Bravo was playing like his usual self, like a complete idiot. He was to blame for the first goal, when he tried to head the incoming ball and completely missed it (by atleast a yard). The second goal was a good header, although Bravo should have closed the striker down. Iker Cassilas did make a tremendous stop to a ball which was almost certainly a goal. Bilbao were the better team the 1st half. One play involving Beckham tackling a player and winning the ball, was a good play which almost ended in a goal by Figo.

Congratulations to Raul though who scored a beauty goal from a brilliant pass from Guti (who normally can't pass for shit). Bringing in R.Carlos was a good decision, but he should have started in the first place, but taking Beckham off for Morrientes was quite strange. I don't know if Beckham had an injury or not, but either way Morrientes didn't perform well. Real did get slightly better after the goal but the match belonged to Bilbao.

On the whole, a disappointing performance from Real, with the best Real player probably being Casillas or Figo. Real really miss Zidane, but I hope Woodgate can make his debut as soon as possible, as the sooner Raul Bravo stops playing, the better. They need to step up their game against Roma.

[Leon of Silvren]

Well Madrid played bad again, the main mistake of the coach was starting Bravo in order to 'punish' Carlos, both goals were Bravo's fault, at the end the team was the one punished, the double pivot is not working, Becks and Celades are invisible, Figo tried but couldn't, the same with Raul. The others were just average.

Literally Madrid played as they've been playing all these season, is just that this time we played against a tough team, unlikely Numancia or Espanyol (we got beaten as well....) which were virtually easy matches, but Bilbao is a strong team. If Madrid keeps playing like this they won't get too far, this 3 points we lost were very important for our confidence, and now it's more low.

[Highway Penguin]

They are playing poorly against good and bad teams, and when they win they think that they can stay playing poorly and continue winning. Which is the wrong attitude.

They need to pull it together for Roma. So they aren't out the first round of the CL.

[Leon of Silvren]

I don't believe they're thinking that way, IMO they know they're playing poorly, but just don't know how to pull together the team, I have one word for them: TEAMWORK.

But the team is starting to play better, but you can't see it on the result because this time we faced a strong team, let me put it this way: if Madrid plays against Espanyol again right now, they will win, they're progressing, that's my point, and just hope they keep it that way.

[Balmung]

Sorry I am new here and I do not have the time to read through the whole thread. But here is the best solution for Real Madrid now ; Perez should start crawling back to Vincente Del Bosque and beg him to return.

Some people say the Galacticos are lazy and complacent with what they have achieved and thus, we see the lacksture performance. Nonetheless, I would like to remind people that Ronaldo and the rest of the Galacticos are still players, and when they still play, they have the thirst to win. Every player wants to win, and if for 1 second, you are thinking they are not, then you are wrong. They are all trying very hard.

It is just the lack of teamwork. Their flair and their style are all gone since the depature of someone. And I emphasize again, Perez should go crawling back to Vincente.

[Leon of Silvren]

Agreed, teamwork is the only thing missing, well and a little bit of luck too, but they seem to start playing like a team after today's match against Roma, let's see if they can keep that game when we face Depor.....

And I disagree about Del Bosque, he had a great performance as coach when he was in Madrid, but now now he's the past, and IMO he won't have that same performance if he's back, besides Remon seem to be just fine, so let's give him a chance.

[Balmung]

A very convincing victory over Roma. But can Real play like what they do at the La Liga?

I have a big hunch, Ronnie is gonna be left out for either Owen or Morientes following his dissappointing performance against Roma. Yet again, he looks fatigued and maybe injured. So prolly he needs some rest.

Hmmm who will Real be facing next at the La Liga?

[Leon of Silvren]

Deportivo La Coruña, a strong team, but judging them for their recent performance, they're an easy rival to handle.....

I think Real can and will keep playing like that, and Ronnie should rest, don't even call him for the match, give him weekend free to go shoping with Daniela ;) he's propably tyred and injured as Balmung said, treat him well, and he'll recover his form.

[btha]

I hope they will rest ronaldo too, but if he's not injured(haven't heard anything in the news about him being "officially" injured), he might be offended, but he'll have to learn to deal with that if he doesn't devliver. being 3 times footballer of the world in the past doesn't say much about your current ability/form.

Deportivo next sunday yes.. Expect the team to be the same as against roma. except morientes replacing ronaldo. i want don't want owen to think that he can force himself a place in the first team by turning himself into a media circus. Plus morientes's form was better last season than owen's imo (when he was in monaco).

When will woodgate be back anyway? (did a quick search and sept 23 soccernet said that he had recovered from the injuries and would beginn training at full pace in 2 weeks max, so it's a couple weeks still till we'll see him).. When he does enter the first team i hope remon will put helguera (or try at least) in midfield as a defensive midfielder and woodgate center defense...

[Balmung]

Best Starting Line-up Against Deportivo IMO :
GK - Iker Casilas
RB - Salgado
LB - Carlos
CB - Woodgate (Helguera if Woodgate is still injured)
CB - Samuel
MF - Helguera (Guti/Celades if Woodgate is still injured
MF - Beckham
RM - Figo
LM - Zidane
CF - Raul
ST - Morientes

Ronnie needs a rest. Hopefully Woodgate is back. And yes, it would be good if Helguera drops into the defensive midfielder role. This way, Real can unleash Beckham, Figo, Zidane and even Carlos to attack without worries.

Best of luck to us~~~

[Leon of Silvren]

Real Madrid 0 - 1 Deportivo......

The team played well, all players did make a great effort, but the luck wasn't by our side, Depor played very well defensively and with a lucky, single, isolated good play got the minimum advantage, which they defended all match long henceforth.

I'm really dissapointed with this match, after seeing the team playing so good tuesday I expected a better result today, but I think things have been made right, just a little luck is missing, just look at statistics: 27 shots of Real against just 5 of Depor, 11 CK of Real and 3 of Depor, they speak by themselves of the way the match was played, we were superiors and deserved to win, but well...that's football.

As I said before, I'm dissapointed, but not with the team, but with the result, I'm supporting Real Madrid till death, no matter what happens, and I'm sure that soon we'll come out from this crisis.....Hala Madrid!!