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Espanyol 0-1 Real Madrid: Benzema gives Real madrid the lead in first leg

2014-01-22T17:39:00.003+01:00

Real Madrid were four matches away from making it to the Copa del Rey final again and the aim in the first of those, as Ancelotti said in the press room prior to the match was "taking an advantage into the second leg because the tie will be decided at the Bernabéu".

Video: Espanyol 0:1 Real Madrid | Highlights | Copa Rey 21-01-2014

The start of the match was quite different to the La Liga match between the teams in the same stadium just over a week ago. In fact, the first half hour was very exciting and there were chances at both ends. The clearest before Benzema opened the scoring came in the 21st minute. Cristiano Ronaldo received the ball with his back to goal on the edge of the box and surprised everyone with his turn and shot, only to see the ball hit the post. The deadlock was broken four minutes later. Arbeloa crossed from the right, Bale flicked on the cross with his head for Benzema to fire the ball into the back of the net, also with a header.

The Whites already had the advantage that their coach had spoken about the day before, and now set about trying to increase their lead. They came close to doing so in the 34th minute. The scorer of the first was at the centre of things once again. The Frenchman’s shot towards the far post, following a nice piece of play between Di María and Marcelo, was just off target. Benzema had another chance to get his second three minutes later, but his shot was saved by Casilla, who was also superb in stopping Bale’s 44th-minute free-kick. The way that the Welshman hit the ball, making it dip and swerve, was close to taking the home team’s goalkeeper by surprise.

The second half started even more open than the first half, perhaps because Espanyol needed to go in search of a goal with the scoreboard already against them, and the chances kept coming. The first of them was in the 47th minute. Bale could not make the most of Cristiano Ronaldo’s cross and put his effort high.
Di María put in a cross from the wing ten minutes later which the Portuguese got a head on, but the effort was wide of the mark. After the first quarter of an hour had gone, Arbeloa stole the show. The Whites’ former academy player had two consecutive one-on-ones with Casilla, who came out on top in both. The home side’s goalkeeper was having a great match, made even better with his save of Benzema’s shot towards the far post in the 67th minute.

There were no more goals, although there were lots of chances for both teams. The sixth win in as many matches in 2014 for the Whites, who kept working hard until the end and who have still not conceded a single goal this year. The tie will be decided next Tuesday at the Bernabéu.

Espanyol 0-1 Real Madrid

Referee: Clos Gómez

Espanyol XI: Casilla; R.Rodríguez, Sidnei, H.Moreno, Capdevila; Abraham, Víctor Sánchez; Lanzarote (46′), Torje (75′), Pizzi (90′); Sergio García.

Goals: None

Subs: Álex (46′), Córdoba (75′), Stuani (88′)

Yellow Cards: Víctor Sánchez (82′), Abraham (90′)

Real Madrid XI: Casillas; Arbeloa, Pepe, Ramos, Marcelo; Modric, Illarramendi, Di María (73′); Cristiano Ronaldo, Benzema (76′), Bale (90′).

Goals: Benzema (25′)

Subs: Xabi Alonso (73′), Isco (76′), Jesé (90′)

Yellow Cards: Ramos (72′)

Source:Realmadrid.net

Cristiano Ronaldo honored with Order of Prince Henry in Portugal

2014-01-20T18:03:00.000+01:00

Cristiano Ronaldo received one of Portugal's highest honors from the country's president on Monday.

The Portugal captain was awarded a medal and ribbon making him an official of the Order of Prince Henry at a formal ceremony in Lisbon's presidential palace.

Ronaldo said it was ''a moment of great pride'' that gave him ''the motivation to keep working, and even harder in the future.''

''I look upon football as fun,'' the 28-year-old Ronaldo said. ''There's a while to go before I retire, and I want to win more trophies at club and national level.'' The Real Madrid forward, football's player of the year in 2008 and 2013, is Portugal's most famous athlete. He has made 109 national team appearances, the third most, and is leading scorer alongside the retired Pauleta with 47 goals each. He will lead Portugal's bid for its first international trophy at the World Cup in Brazil.

''Winning the World Cup is a dream,'' Ronaldo said. ''It would be the peak of my career.''

President Anibal Cavaco Silva said Ronaldo deserved the recognition because he ''brings prestige for Portugal around the world.''

As well as his natural talent, Ronaldo is an example for younger generations, Cavaco Silva said, because of his ''hard work, discipline, determination and will to win.''

The ceremony was attended by members of Ronaldo's family, Portuguese government officials and Spanish diplomats, as well as Real Madrid President Florentino Perez and Portugal coach Paulo Bento.

Sourcefoxsports.com

Betis 0-5 Real Madrid: Goals from Ronaldo, Bale, Benzema, Di María and Morata sealed the win

2014-01-19T05:21:00.000+01:00

Real Madrid returned to La Liga action and did so away against Real Betis. The aim was to start the second half of the league season with a win and maintain their one hundred percent record in 2014. The Whites only needed ten minutes to show the exceptional form that they are in. The counterattack was perfect. It was started by Modric, continued by Di María and finished by Cristiano Ronaldo’s sensational shot from the edge of the area that left Andersen planted firmly in the middle of his goal, unable to do anything to keep the shot out.

Thing were going as hoped for the Whites in the Villamarín Benito Stadium and even more so because the best player in the world was showing what earned him that title. The goal spurred on Cristiano Ronaldo, who was teaching the home team’s defenders a lesson in the first half hour with his dribbling skills. What he did in the 22nd minute was brilliant. He jinked past two opponents with one movement and then crossed with the outside of his foot, only for none of his teammates to be able to get onto the end of it. He brought about the free-kick for the second goal, three minutes later, with Amaya only able to stop him with a foul on the edge of the area. Bale converted the free-kick masterfully.

Video: Betis vs Real Madrid ( 0-5 ) All Goals & Highlights 18/01/2014

The first goal was very beautifully crafted and the second was not far behind. Two great goals to take a significant lead and put themselves on course for the win, which was sealed before the break. Modric recovered possession on the edge of the area, faked the shot to put three players on the deck, before providing the assist for Benzema, who beat Andersen well from near to the penalty spot in added time and in doing so scored his one hundredth goal for the club.

Real Madrid were putting on an exhibition in Seville and it continued in the second half. Within the first ten minutes, they had already had created three dangerous chances. The clearest fell to Cristiano Ronaldo in the 52nd minute. The Portuguese could not beat Andersen in the one-on-one following a great Ramos pass with the outside of his right boot.

The chances kept coming for the visitors and Benzema could have got his second had Andersen not saved the Frenchman’s shot from the edge of the area in the 60th minute. The fourth came two minutes later and, like the previous three, it was very beautifully crafted.

Modric took the corner and Di María smashed the clearance into the bottom corner with a volley from 30 metres. Morata completed the rout in added time. The Whites were putting on an exhibition in Seville, reached fifty points and turn their thoughts to the Copa del Rey quarter-final against Espanyol.

Source:Realmadrid.com

Cristiano Ronaldo to buy Real Madrid's physios new cars for helping him win Ballon d'Or

2014-01-17T20:13:00.002+01:00

Real Madrid superstar Cristiano Ronaldo will reportedly reward the club's physiotherapy team by buying each of them a brand new car of their choice following his Ballon d'Or win.

The Portuguese forward promised Madrid's physiotherapists that if he won the Ballon d'Or, they would each get a new car, as a present for helping keep him fit in the last 12 months.

According to Metro.co.uk, many think Ronaldo edged Lionel Messi for the prize because of the Argentine's recent injury trouble, which has seen him miss the last few weeks of action.

Meanwhile, Manchester United ace Rio Ferdinand had been saved from running naked on the street after Ronaldo won the Ballon d'Or.

Ferdinand had vowed to run naked if his former United mate failed to win the award

Source:dnaindia.com

Osasuna 0-2 Real Madrid: Real Madrid advance to Copa Del Rey quarters

2014-01-16T20:25:00.002+01:00

Cristiano Ronaldo celebrated his Ballon d'Or triumph by scoring from one of his trademark free kicks as Real Madrid beat Osasuna 2-0 on Wednesday to reach the Copa del Rey quarterfinals on Wednesday.
Ronaldo smashed a swerving shot from 25 meters around the defensive wall and straight at goalie Andres Fernandez. The keeper tried to punch it out but ended up sending it down off the ground and between his legs into the net.
Ronaldo's 22nd-minute strike effectively sealed the contest, with Osasuna having lost the first leg 2-0.
Osasuna forced Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas into a number of saves to close the half after having rarely threatened before Ronaldo's opener.

Video: Osasuna 0-2 Real Madrid (All Goal and Highlights)

Angel Di Maria capped a quick counter in the 56th by sweeping home Jese's cross following a long run from the halfway line, securing a 4-0 aggregate victory at El Sadar Stadium.
''The team looks better with every game,'' Jese said.

Madrid defender Fabio Coentrao was shown a second yellow card in the 85th and Madrid finished with nine players after substitute Alvaro Morata came off minutes later with his left eye swollen shut following a collision earlier on.

Ronaldo's 30th goal in all competitions this season - and 37th when counting those scored for Portugal - further justified the forward's pick as world player of the year ahead of Lionel Messi and Franck Ribery.
Ronaldo made way for Gareth Bale in the second half but the world's most expensive player made little impact.

Madrid will next play Espanyol, which eliminated second-tier Alcorcon 4-3 following a 4-2 home win on the night.

Cristiano Ronaldo Wins His Second FIFA Ballon d'Or

2014-01-13T22:14:00.003+01:00

After finishing second in FIFA's Ballon d'Or voting three of the past four years, Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo has broken through and won the award given to the world's best player.

The presentation took place Monday in Zurich, Switzerland. "There are no words to describe this moment," an emotional Ronaldo said, according to the Daily Mail. "I want to thank all my colleagues and companions at Real Madrid, in the Portuguese team and my family who are here with me."

The 28-year-old scored 66 goals in 56 appearances for both Real Madrid and Portugal.

Ronaldo was recognized as the world's best player in 2008, as well, when he was with Manchester United.

Lionel Messi had been the recipient of the award in each of the past four seasons, and he was again a finalist this year along with Franck Ribery.

Real Madrid 3-0 Celta: Ronaldo dedicates Brace to great Eusebio

2014-01-07T17:13:00.001+01:00

A second-half double from Cristiano Ronaldo helped Real Madrid kick off the new year with a 3-0 win at home to Celta.

Real Madrid started the year on the right foot. The Whites earned three important points and kept a clean sheet against Celta Vigo in their first official match of 2014. The landslide victory was constructed in the second half. Jesé’s introduction changed the course of the last home match of the first half of the league season. It was the former academy player that created the opening for Benzema to score the opener. From that point on, Cristiano Ronaldo took centre stage, scored a brace that puts him at the top of the standings for the Pichichi Trophy and showed again why he deserves the Ballon d'Or.
Celta had wasted a number of chances before Karim Benzema capitalised on shoddy defending by prodding home.
Ronaldo, who had been largely anonymous, made sure of victory by converting Daniel Carvajal's cross.
Then, in the dying seconds, Ronaldo added gloss to the scoreline following a cross from Gareth Bale.
Bale, a 65th-minute substitute, found the former Manchester United man in space and he thumped the ball into the roof of the net.

Video: Real Madrid vs Celta 3-0 (6.1.2014 La liga)

Ronaldo's brace, which made him the fourth highest scorer for Real Madrid in La Liga history, masked what had been a pedestrian performance by a Real side who are now five points adrift of Barcelona and Atletico Madrid in third.

The 28-year-old, who is on a three-man shortlist for the prestigious Ballon d'Or award, has now scored 400 goals in 653 games for Sporting Lisbon, Manchester United, Real and Portugal.
A minute's silence was held before kick-off in memory of Portuguese great Eusebio, who died aged 71 from a heart attack at the weekend.

Ronaldo seemed to pay his own tribute to his much-loved compatriot by raising his arms to the sky after his second landmark goal. It was not Ronaldo's most polished performance, but he still managed to help Real clinch a handsome win.

Celta will look back and regret a number of missed opportunities, with Brazilian Charles the main culprit.
The striker hit the side netting early on and fluffed another chance after the break, shooting wide with just Diego Lopez to beat.

Moments later, the visitors paid the price for their profligacy when Benzema took advantage of a defensive mix-up to stab the ball home. The goal lifted Real's spirits, with Ronaldo dragging a shot across goal before he found the target moments later with a toe-poke at the far post.

Celta's threat diminished from there on and once again they failed to contain Ronaldo as he struck his 28th club goal this season and his 230th in total for Real.

Bale, who returned to training last week after recovering from a calf injury, was the provider, with the Welshman making another telling contribution for his new club.

Bale and Casillas back in Real Madrid squad

2014-01-05T20:04:00.002+01:00

Real Madrid have named their 20-man squad for the match against Celta Vigo on Monday night.

Los Blancos face the Celestes at Santiago Bernabeu tomorrow evening, looking for the three points that would see them to within five of Atletico Madrid.

And they will do so with Gareth Bale who has been passed fit after a calf injury kept him out before Christmas.
Raphael Varane though, is not in the squad and will return to training within 10-15 days.

Goalkeepers: Casillas, Diego López, Jesús.
Defenders: Pepe, Ramos, Marcelo, Carvajal, Arbeloa, Nacho.
Midfielders: Xabi Alonso, Bale, Casemiro, Modric, Di María, Isco, Illarra.
Forwards: Cristiano Ronaldo, Benzema, Jesé, Morata

Iker Casillas and Sara Carbonero become parents with the birth of their first son

2014-01-05T19:47:00.002+01:00

Real Madrid and Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas on Friday welcomed the birth of his first child, a baby boy called Martin, with his partner, the television reporter Sara Carbonero.

"I want to share with you the most important and moving moment of my life: the birth of my son," said Casillas, captain of Spain's World Cup and double-Euro-winning national team. Martin, who weighed 3.85 kilos (8.5 pounds), and his mother "are perfectly well and are now resting", he added, in a statement sent to fans.

Casillas, 32, won the hearts of Spaniards when he kissed Carbonero, 29, live on air as she interviewed him after Spain's victory over the Netherlands in the 2010 World Cup final.

Raphael Varane is set to return

2014-01-05T19:16:00.002+01:00

The French defender has been missing from the Blancos XI since November after struggling with a knee injury is now set to return to Real Madrid within the next two weeks, Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed.
But the Italian tactician has revealed this afternoon that the youngster will be back in training in ’10-15 days’.

“He’s still recovering,” Ancelotti told reporters.

“The knee is responding well. In 10 to 15 days he’ll start training with the team." Play the world's most challenging Fantasy Football Game by building your Team from Europe's best 5 leagues. Pick your favourite stars including Luis Suarez, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi to compete against friends.

PSG 0-1 Real Madrid: Jesse's goal gives the victory to the whites

2014-01-02T19:23:00.002+01:00

Midfielder Jese Rodriguez scored the only goal as Real Madrid beat Paris Saint-Germain 1-0 in a mid-season friendly played in Doha

Billed as another showdown between Real's Cristiano Ronaldo and PSG's Zlatan Ibrahimovic, it was instead 19-year-old Rodriguez who settled the contest with a low right-footed finish in the 19th minute after being played in by Alvaro Morata, who has been linked with Arsenal.

Real head coach Carlo Ancelotti occupied the same role with the Parisians last season and could claim one over on his former club at the Khalifa Stadium, yet the sense of it being an exhibition game was inescapable, with the Spanish club changing their entire starting XI at half-time, meaning Ronaldo played for only the first 45 minutes.

Video: Real Madrid 1-0 - Match Highlights

Ibrahimovic came off midway through the second half.
As with Sweden's World Cup play-off against Ronaldo's Portugal, Ibrahimovic was on the team that came off second best.
Real resume their campaign in Spain's Primera Division on Monday, when they tackle Celta Vigo.

Fabio Coentrão looking for Real Madrid Exit

2014-01-01T18:28:00.001+01:00

Portuguese left-back, Fabio Coentrão is hoping Real Madrid will allow him to leave the Santiago Bernabeu this January, after the 25-year-old has failed to see consistent minutes this season.

Coentrão appeared to be headed to Manchester United at the close of last summer’s transfer window, but his replacement, Granada’s Guilherme Siqueira joined Portuguese side, Benfica instead, forcing Real Madrid to back out of negotiations.

Despite reportedly being devastated by the failed move, Coentrao surprisingly signed a contract extension with the club until June 2018, this past November.

However, Spanish sports daily, AS is reporting that the defender, who has just recently rejoined the team after being out since mid-November with a torn hamstring, is looking to leave the club to boost his chances of making it to and being fully fit for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

Video: Fabio Coentrao Ultimate Skill Show HD

There is no lack of suitors for the moody defender, as Manchester United are still interested and lead the pack of teams that have made enquiries into the player’s availability in recent weeks.

Italian Serie A side, AC Milan are also rumoured to be interested in saving Coentrão from his back-up role behind Marcelo.

Source:insidespanishfootball.com

Cristiano Ronaldo and Pep Guardiola to join Dubai International Sports Conference.

2013-12-27T19:35:00.001+01:00

The UAE’s status as a pre-eminent global sports hub will be emphatically reconfirmed on Saturday when football luminaries such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Pep Guardiola descend on Dubai for the 8th Dubai International Sports Conference.
Real Madrid and Portugal superstar Ronaldo and Bayern Munich boss Guardiola are among a stellar line-up of speakers at the two-day conference, which takes place on Saturday and Sunday at Mina Al-Salam Hotel in Jumeirah.

The conference has been organised under the patronage of Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Sports Council, and is being held under the title ‘Empowering the Future of Football’.
Ronaldo will take part in the opening session of the event between 10am and 11am alongside the former Italian referee Pierluigi Collina, famous for his bald head and wide-eyed stare and now a member of UEFA’s Referees Development Committee.

The favourite for next month’s Ballon d’Or trophy awarded to Fifa’s best player of the year will be discussing with Collina the topic of ‘developing player’s career towards the top’.
Ronaldo will be joined by three children from the Rashid Paediatric Centre in Dubai, who will each choose a question to ask the 28-year-old.

It is the second time Ronaldo has attended the event after he spoke at the sixth edition in 2011.
Mohammad Al Kamali, member of the Executive Office of Dubai Sports Council and Head of the Conference’s Organising Committee, said: “We are pleased to announce the participation of the Portuguese and Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo. It is the second time Ronaldo joins the Dubai International Sports Conference.”
Ronaldo first participated in the event in 2011 along with the Italian star, Alessandro Del Piero.
The second session on Saturday, to be held between 11.15am and 12.30pm, will feature football officials and administrators such as former Scotland international and current director of Al Ahli in the UAE, Roy Aitken, and ex-commercial chief of Manchester United, Mike Farnan.
They will be debating the development of football facilities and outlining local models in this regard.
The final session of the day, between noon and 1.45pm, will involve Guardiola, Juventus coach Antonio Conte and former England manager and current head coach of Russia Fabio Capello speaking on the topic of ‘Another way to win’.

Sunday’s sessions kick off between 10am and 11.15am with officials such as Senes Erzik, Vice-President of Uefa, talking about how Uefa and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) enjoy a fruitful partnership.
Then, between 11.15am and 12.30pm, former Liverpool striker Ian Rush, now working as an ambassador for the Reds, will be among those speaking about global investment in football and youth development.
The final session of the day, between 1pm and 2.15pm, will involve Ballon d’Or contender Franck Ribery, the Bayern Munich and France winger, and Barcelona’s midfield maestro Xavi Hernandez speaking about leadership skills in winning championships.
The conference will then end with recommendations offered between 2.15pm and 2.30pm, followed by the Globe Soccer Awards on Sunday night at Madinat Jumeriah.

Last year’s edition of the conference, held in association with Globe Soccer, boasted the likes of Chelsea’s Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho, Uefa President Michel Platini, Barcelona President Sandro Rosell, and footballing legend Diego Maradona, who is an ambassador for the DSC.
Previous conferences have debated topics such as ‘professionalism’, ‘the challenges of professionalism’ and ‘creation of professional sports’.

Fore more information about the conference, which costs Dh1,000 to attend (including lunch and an adidas bag and cap), visit: http://www.dubaiisc.ae/en/

Osasuna 2 - 2 Real Madrid (14 December 2013): Match highlights and Match Report

2013-12-16T19:05:00.002+01:00

Two headers from Oriol Riera put the hosts in command before Real defender Sergio Ramos was sent off before half-time for two bookable offences.

Isco halved the deficit moments after Ramos' dismissal to give Madrid hope.
Osasuna also played the final 12 minutes with 10 men after Francisco Silva was sent off before Pepe headed in the equaliser.

Osasuna 2 - 2 Real Madrid: Goals and Match highlights

But Saturday's draw saw Carlo Ancelotti's team, who are third behind leaders Barcelona and Atletico Madrid, drop more points in the title race.

They are five points adrift of arch rivals Barca, who won 2-1 against visitors Villarreal.
Madrid have now only won once in their last six visits to Pamplona, but having scored 24 goals in their previous five league games, they started the game confidently.

Cristiano Ronaldo dragged an early shot wide before the hosts went ahead with virtually their first attack of the game.

Marc Bertran's excellent in-swinging cross was met by the unmarked Riera at the back post.
The Osasuna striker doubled their advantage six minutes before half-time by nodding into an empty net after a fine save from Real goalkeeper Diego Lopez.

Ramos was sent off for the 18th time in his Madrid career after clashing with Osasuna midfielder Roberto Torres, but his team pulled a goal back when Isco blasted into the bottom corner from 20 yards.
As his side toiled after the break, Ancelotti decided to withdraw Gareth Bale before the hour mark as Argentina winger Angel di Maria replaced the Welshman.

Osasuna were also reduced to 10 men when Silva dived in on Ronaldo and was rightly shown his second yellow card of the match.
And his team were punished from the resulting free-kick as Pepe climbed highest to power Isco's cross into the bottom corner.

Source:bbc.com

Fabio Coentrao joins the bench... before being told he's NOT in the squad!

2013-12-12T14:17:00.002+01:00

Watch the hilarious moment when Real Madrid player Fabio Coentrao sits on the bench in his kit... before being told by his team-mates that he's NOT in the squad!

Real Madrid 2-0 Copenhagen - Ronaldo breaks another record

2013-12-11T12:34:00.001+01:00

Cristiano Ronaldo became the first player to score nine goals in the group stage of the Champions League yesterday (Dec 10) as he helped the Spanish giants to a 2-0 victory at Copenhagen.

Madrid, which already secured top spot in Group B, took the lead when Croatia playmaker Luka Modric curled the ball into the top-right corner in the 25th minute.

Ronaldo, who seemed absent during the first 45 minutes, scored three minutes into the second half — pouncing on a ball headed on by Pepe. He should have added his 10th goal of the campaign — but missed a 90th minute penalty.

Real Madrid 2-0 Copenhagen: Match Highlights

Though Madrid had more possession, Copenhagen caused its opponents problems on the counter-attack.

“It was a serious game that wasn’t at all easy,” Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti said. “My players did well, and showed good attitude and solid play.”

The visitors tested goalkeeper Johan Wiland, whose saves include diverting a low shot by Ronaldo with his fingertips. Toward the end of the first half, a header by Copenhagen’s Thomas Delaney finished in the Madrid net but the goal was disallowed by German referee Felix Brych due to a collision with keeper Iker Casillas.

Copenhagen’s Rurik Gislason tried his luck with a shot in the early stages of the second half but the ball ended in the side-netting. Later, Casillas punched away another shot by the Icelandic midfielder.

However, Madrid was in complete control of the game, led by Ronaldo and backed by a solid defence. The home team, backed by a crowd of 37,000, tried in vain to force itself back into the match.

Ronaldo hit the post in the 75th minute, while teammate Gareth Bale missed another opportunity for Madrid’s third goal in the 82nd minute as he surged into the box.

Seconds before the final whistle, Wiland punched away Ronaldo’s powerfully-struck penalty kick.

While Madrid will play in the last 16, the Danish club finished bottom of the group and exit European competition for the season. AP

Source:todayonline.com

Real Madrid held to a draw in the Copa del Rey opener

2013-12-08T13:15:00.000+01:00

Real Madrid were held to a drab 0-0 at third-division Olimpic Xativa in their Copa del Rey opener on Saturday, while Atletico Madrid started their title defense with an easy 4-0 win at minnow Sant Andreu.
Madrid were without suspended forward Cristiano Ronaldo and the flu-stricken Gareth Bale, but not even Karim Benzema, Marcelo, and Luka Modric going on as second-half substitutes could help them break through Olimpic's modest, yet disciplined defense.
Carlo Ancelotti's team will still be heavily favored in the second leg of their round-of-32 tie at home in two weeks. But Olimpic's players went beyond merely savoring the moment, and being sure to take Madrid's jerseys as prized souvenirs.

"We have left the series wide open. Anything can happen now," said Olimpic goalkeeper Francisco Solar, who made a key save to parry Madrid's best chance by Isco Alarcon early in the second half.
Olimpic installed extra seating at their La Murta Stadium and the small Valencia-based club launched fireworks before the start of their biggest game in recent memory. A moment of silence was held for Nelson Mandela.
Olimpic arrived to the match with the nine-time European champion on an unbeaten run in the third division. And after Madrid's lackadaisical start, they appeared to grow in confidence they could hold their own and ended up having relatively little trouble recording their eighth straight game without conceding a goal.
Olimpic's coach, Antonio Aparicio, was just proud of his team.
"It was a party for everybody. My team gave a good showing and worked so hard. What more can we ask for?" Aparicio asked. "We can always say that we drew with Real Madrid."
Ancelotti said Madrid's players were not accustomed to playing on the artificial turf.
"It wasn't a great game, but it wasn't too bad," Ancelotti said. "I am satisfied. We don't have to be worried."
Also, Celta Vigo beat visiting Athletic Bilbao 1-0 to take the advantage in their tie. Levante became the first topflight team to lose to a lower-division opponent after falling 1-0 at Huelva Recreativo, while Getafe drew 1-1 at second-division Girona.
With various veteran stars injured or resting, it was a night for some of the more promising talents to shine in the wins of Atletico and Celta. Atletico coach Diego Simeone left strike duo Diego Costa and David Villa on the bench for the first hour, opting for a starting 11 with just four regular starters and featuring youngsters Oliver Torres and Javier Manquillo.
It was still more than enough to overpower Sant Andreu.
"This team doesn't let up for any game," said Manquillo, Atletico's promising 19-year-old right back. "We considered this cup match was like any other and we always respect our rival, no matter who it is."
Raul Garcia almost scored just seconds into the match at Narcis Sala Stadium in Barcelona's northern suburbs. But he succeeded in the 13th after he volleyed Filipe Luis' out-swinging cross unmarked at the far post.
Arda Turan then slotted in Manquillo's back pass in the 20th, and he scored again from a series of tightly knit passes in the 56th that included two audacious back-heeled flicks by Adrian Lopez and Garcia to set up the Turkey international. Villa sealed the victory in the 84th from a pass by Diego Costa.
Celta Vigo also turned to a youth player to edge Bilbao in the day's only matchup between first-division teams. After both sides went close several times at Balaidos Stadium, Celta striker Santiago Mina celebrated his 18th birthday by scoring the follow-up of his own initial strike that Bilbao goalkeeper Iago Herrerin did well to block but couldn't hold on to in the 71st.
Celta 35-year-old forward Mario Bermejo went on as a late substitute in his first action since tearing his left knee ligament in May. Recreativo defender Ruyman Hernandez headed in the winner one minute into stoppage time to down Levante.
Getafe forward Ciprian Marica used a bicycle kick to fire in a poor clearance in the 38th, canceling out David Timor's free kick that gave Girona the lead in the 16th.

Source:ibnlive.com

Alvaro Morata rejects Arsenal and Tottenham links

2013-12-04T18:31:00.005+01:00

Real Madrid striker Alvaro Morata has played down talk linking him with loan moves to Arsenal and Tottenham.

Morata is keen to make his name at the Spanish giants and learn from the world class players that he currently shares a dressing room with.

Reports in the British media have suggested that Arsenal and Tottenham were lining up loan moves for Morata in the January transfer window.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger rejected the rumours and now Morata has distanced himself from the transfer speculation, insisting he is focusing on being a success at the Bernabeu.

"I only think about succeeding at Real Madrid," he told AS.

"Every day I work hard to earn myself a place in the team, but I know that I have had the support of [coach Carlo] Ancelotti since the first day that he came here.

"To Jose Mourinho I owe a great deal for promoting me up to the first team and I will always have a special feeling towards him. He is an incredible coach."

Spanish daily Marca suggests that senior figures at Real Madrid have told them that Morata will not leave on loan in the winter transfer window and Morata only has eyes on following his idol Raul.

"Raul [Gonzalez] has always been a hero to me," Morata continued. "He is considered to be the best player in the history of Real Madrid and Spanish football.

"Cristiano [Ronaldo] is also a great player, out of this world, the complete player, the best. [Karim] Benzema is impressive also and I can learn a lot from him.

"Also, [Gareth] Bale is now showing what he can do and is one of the best players in the world and he was a great signing."

Source:skysports.com

Video: Cristiano Ronaldo got agitated while receiving brand new Audi

2013-11-29T13:41:00.000+01:00

Video:Cristiano Ronaldo got agitated while receiving brand new Audi

Bale: Galatasaray goal was one of my best

2013-11-29T12:50:00.002+01:00

Gareth Bale has labelled his goal in Real Madrid's 4-1 UEFA Champions League win against Galatasaray as one of the best of his career. The 24-year-old put Real ahead in Wednesday's Group B encounter with a stunning free-kick that dipped neatly over the wall to fool goalkeeper Eray Iscan in the 37th minute.

"I am very satisfied by the result and the goal I scored," the 24-year-old said to MARCA. "I have been working on free kicks in training and I have been fortunate that this one has come off so well. It is one of the best goals of my career," he added.

Video:Gareth Bale Fanatastic Free Kick Goal vs Galatasaray

Bale's superb strike, which marked his sixth goal since joining from Tottenham in September, also served as a much-needed boost following Sergio Ramos' red card 11 minutes earlier.

Umut Bulut pulled Galatasaray level a minute after Bale's opener before Real clinched a comfortable victory courtesy of second-half goals from Alvaro Arbeloa, Angel Di Maria and Isco.

The 2012-13 La Liga runners-up had already secured a last-16 spot in the competition prior to Wednesday's game and Bale feels that Carlo Ancelotti's men can go all the way and win the tournament.

"For me, there are no limits to what we can achieve in the competition. We showed character and camaraderie to play like we did when we were a man down," Bale told the club's official website. "We have a good chance to win the Champions League this year," he added.

Source:Marca.com

Arbeloa's fine performance made him hero of 'Los Blancos'.

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Just a few weeks ago, he felt the harsh reprimand of the Bernabéu faithful. Against, Galatasaray, however, Arbeloa became the surprise shining star of the evening, and was rewarded with the fans' affection: "I´m grateful to the fans; they're wise and know when to cheer".

Arbeloa was the hero of 'Los Blancos'. After a goal-less three years, he scored his team's second, gave Di María the assist for the third, and very nearly picked up a brace, showing some great moves along the way, to the delight of the crowds.

"Arbeloa, Arbeloa", the Bernabéu roared on minute 63 after Di Maria´s' goal. The defender started the move just past the half way line, played a one-two with Isco and served the ball up perfectly for the Argentine to slot it home and assure a White victory.

The cheers and running by Xabi Alonso who was warming up on the sidelines symbolised the general feeling of 'Los Vikingos', delighted to see the most criticised player score.

From that moment, Arbeloa could really do no wrong. Solid in defence, playing first at right-back and then at left-back, he dared to join in the attack because the going was so good for him. Every touch he made of the ball was met with applause from the stands.

Arbeloa hadn't scored since 23rd November 2010, against Ajax. He can now boast to have scored four goals for Real Madrid – two in La Liga and two in the Champions League. And be proud that the Bernabéu now chants his name.

Cristiano Ronaldo praised by the press all over the world

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The World Press has been won over by CR7's performance in Sweden and is tipping him as the favourite for the Ballon d'Or.

BRAZIL

"Unforgettable"

"Cristiano Ronaldo earned a place in the history books in Stockholm. He scored three goals and secured qualification for his national team against Ibrahimovic's Sweden in the best game of his career".

GERMANY

"CR7 wins the battle with Ibra"

"Superb performance from both superstars. A stunning hat-trick from Cristiano Ronaldo takes Portugal through to the World Cup in Brazil"

ARGENTINA

"I'm your nemesis"

"Cristiano Ronaldo smashed it: he put in three goals, taking Portugal through the World Cup where he could even cross paths with Messi in the group stages".

CHINA

"Irrepressible Cristiano, a stunning hat-trick"

"Cristiano Ronaldo wins his personal battle with Ibrahimovic and puts Portugal in the World Cup".

ENGLAND

"The night Cristiano ran away with the Ballon d'Or"

"Game, set and match to Portugal's captain in the race for the Ballon d'Or after his hat-trick secured World Cup qualification".

AUSTRALIA

"Ronaldo, in superstar mode"

"Superb performance from the Portuguese star who, with his three goals, secured Portugal's qualification for the World Cup in Brazil".

UNITED STATES

"The man who should win the Ballon d'Or"

"Cristiano Ronaldo scores a brilliant hat-trick and proves himself to be a top candidate for the trophy".

SOUTH AFRICA

"Cristiano Ronaldo wins out over Ibrahimovic"

"The best of Cristiano Ronaldo delivers victory to Portugal against Ibrahimovic securing a place in the World Cup".

Sergio Ramos vs Pepe Reina (Penalty Shoootout) Funny

2013-11-18T18:44:00.001+01:00

Sergio Ramos saves the penalty. Sergio Ramos and Pepe Reina Funny video.

Sergio Ramos and Pepe Reina in Spain training camp.

Xabi Alonso may be heading back to Premier League.

2013-11-18T11:51:00.002+01:00

CHELSEA target Xabi Alonso is in no rush to enter contract negotiations with Real Madrid after opening up initial talks with Manchester United.

Reports are suggesting that the Red Devils are winning the race against rivals Chelsea to sign the Los Blancos man, Xabi Alonso.
Alonso is in his final year of his contract at the Bernabeu and he is looking to make a move away from the Spanish capital. Interest for the Madrid star is mounting from all over Europe but Alonso has reportedly opened up initial talks with Manchester United, according to the Daily Star.
Spanish reports suggested that talks with United convinced Alonso to rethink the option of staying in his native country and make a move to another European club.
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has been keeping tabs on the Spanish international’s situation. Mourinho wants to add a playmaker to his lineup either in this upcoming January transfer window or during the summer. He hopes to sign the 31-year old Madridista after having worked together for three years in Madrid.
The Spanish International has only played four games this season under Carlo Ancelotti due to a foot injury.
Serie A champions Juventus are also interested in signing Alonso.

Cristiano Ronaldo's interview interrupted by son asking 'Dad, can I sleep with you tonight?'

2013-11-17T19:49:00.002+01:00