THE NEW BLOG SITE!!

Hello everyone!

This will be the last time I post on this blog.


As of now, the new site (with all the same information) will be:

www.rmadrid37.wordpress.com



Thank you all and hoping you guys enjoy the new site! 

Real Madrid Signings/Departures for the 2012/2013 Season

I'll be updating this post as the we see the new signings and departures from the Real Madrid camp. As Aitor Karanka (Assistant Manager) said earlier, we're expecting a pretty quiet transfer window, so I guess we'll just have to wait and see what happens. Personally, I'm expecting to see a few departures from the club as we'll probably be saying goodbye to players such as Lassana Diarra, Hamit Altintop, Fernando Gago, etc. As for the signings, anything can happen since, as usual, Real Madrid are always linked with some of the best players in the game...

Signings:







Departures:

Hamit Altintop (Galatasaray) - €3.5 Million

Spain Win Euro 2012!

After three weeks of arguably the best Euro Cup in history, Spain have won and have shown why they were among the favorites to win the cup for a second time in a row.

Having a quick look back at their journey, they really didn't have an easy way out. Being in Group C, alongside Italy, Ireland and Croatia, they had to prove that they still had the winning mentality in them and are able to compete against some of the best European teams around.

In their opening game against Italy, it ended in a 1-1 draw with Cesc Fabregas scoring for Spain and Antonio Di Natale scoring for Italy. Their second match proved many of their doubters wrong as they faced Ireland and beat them with a comfortable 4-0 win. Goals came from Fernando Torres (2), David Silva and Cesc Fabregas. In their last match of the group, they played against Croatia, who gave them many problems and, if it were any other day, they could have gotten the three points. Instead, Spain were able to win with a late goal from Jesus Navas.

After qualifying with 7 points and top of Group C, they prepared to play France in the Quarter Finals. Yet again, they were able to prove many people wrong as they beat France 2-0 (which could have easily been more) with two goals from Xabi Alonso.

In the Semi-Finals, they were put up against Portugal. Both teams kept trying and fighting as hard as they could but, after no one was able to score in 120 minutes, Spain got the better of Portugal in penalties to book their place in the Final.

Even the most optimistic of people would have doubts that Spain will beat Italy, especially after seeing how Italy knocked Germany out in the Semi Finals. And certainly no one expected a game like this...

Italy looked lost, unable to keep the ball, pressured whenever they came close to Spain's goal. And, any chances they got, was blocked by a confident Iker Casillas in goal. The game ended 4-0 with goals coming from David Silva, Jordi Alba, Fernando Torres, and Juan Mata.

Spain have won the Euro Cup for a second time in succession and have proven each and every one of their doubters wrong. They have deserved it and have shown that against some of the biggest names in European Football.


My Euro 2012 Team of the Tournament:


Although many would probably end up disagreeing with my ideal team of the Euro 2012, here's what I think in a 4-3-2-1 formation:


Goalkeeper: Iker Casillas

Defense: Alvaro Arbeloa; Pepe; Sergio Ramos; Jordi Alba

Midfield: Sami Khedira; Andrea Pirlo; Daniele De Rossi
Andres Iniesta; Mesut Ozil

Forward: Cristiano Ronaldo

EURO 2012

GROUPS

GROUP A:

*Czech Republic - 6 Points
*Greece - 4 Points
Russia - 4 Points
Poland - 2 Points

GROUP B:

*Germany - 9 Points
*Portugal - 6 Points
Denmark - 3 Points
Netherlands - 0 Points

GROUP C:

*Spain - 7 Points
*Italy - 5 Points
Croatia - 4 Points
Ireland - 0 Points

GROUP D:

*England - 7 Points
*France - 4 Points
Ukraine - 3 Points
Sweden - 3 Points

* = Qualified for next round

GAMES & SCORES - 

Group Stage-

June 8:

Greece 1-1 Poland

Czech Republic 1-4 Russia

June 9:

Denmark 1-0 Netherlands

Portugal 0-1 Germany

June 10:

Spain 1-1 Italy

Ireland 1-3 Croatia

June 11:

France 1-1 England

Ukraine 2-1 Sweden

June 12:

Greece 1-2 Czech Republic

Poland 1-1 Russia 

June 13:

Denmark 2-3 Portugal

Netherlands 1-2 Germany

June 14:

Italy 1- 0 Croatia

Spain 4-0 Ireland

June 15:

Ukraine 0-2 France
Sweden 2-3 England

June 16: 

Czech Republic 1-0 Poland

Greece 1-0 Russia

June 17:

Denmark 1-2 Germany

Portugal 2-1 Netherlands

June 18:

Croatia 0-1 Spain

Italy 2-0 Ireland

June 19:

England 1-0 Ukraine

Sweden 2-0 France


Quarter-Finals:


June 21:
Czech Republic 0-1 Portugal

June 22: 
Germany 4-2 Greece

June 23:
Spain 2-0 France


June 24:
England 0-0 Italy [Italy win 2-4 on penalties]


Semi-Finals:


June 27:
Portugal 0-0 Spain [Spain win 2-4 on penalties]

June 28:
Germany 1-2 Italy


FINAL:


July 1:
Spain 4-0 Italy



SPAIN are the winners of the EuroCup 2012!!!!! 

Real Madrid 4-1 Mallorca

In the last game of the season, Real Madrid were looking for a historic record of 100 points, and they have gotten it with style...

Jose Mourinho decided not to take any chances at all and has fielded a strong starting 11: Iker Casillas, Alvaro Arbeloa, Pepe, Sergio Ramos, Marcelo, Xabi Alonso, Sami Khedira, Mesut Ozil, Gonzalo Higuain, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Karim Benzema.

Real Madrid seemed like the better team from the beginning as they kept attacking with everything they got. Cristiano Ronaldo was finally able to open the scoring after 19 minutes to make it 1-0 and officially be the only player to score against every single La Liga team. Only four minutes later, Karim Benzema was able to make it 2-0 with a great finish after a Gonzalo Higuain assist.

As the second half began, Mesut Ozil was able to score on the 49th minute after yet another assist from Higuain. Mallorca pulled one back on the 52nd minute to make it 3-1 but that did not stop Real Madrid as Ozil scored yet another great finish on the 58th minute. From then on, the game got a bit slower with both teams having their fair share of chances.

Real Madrid reached the record 100 points!


Best Real Madrid Player: Mesut Ozil
Worst Real Madrid Player: ---


FINAL LA LIGA STANDINGS:

1. Real Madrid - 100 Points (CHAMPIONS)
2. Barcelona - 91 Points
3. Valencia - 61 Points
4. Malaga - 58 Points
5. Atletico Madrid - 56 Points
6. Levante - 55 Points
7. Osasuna - 54 Points
8. Real Mallorca - 52 Points
9 .Sevilla - 50 Points
10. Athletic Bilbao - 49 Points
11. Real Soceidad - 47 Points
12. Real Betis - 47 Points
13. Getafe - 47 Points
14. Espanyol - 46 Points
15. Rayo Vallecano - 43 Points
16. Real Zaragoza - 43 Points
17. Granada - 42 Points
18. Villarreal - 41 Points (RELEGATED)
19. Sporting Gijon - 37 Points (RELEGATED)
20. Racing Santander - 27 Points (RELEGATED)

Granada 1-2 Real Madrid

In a match which many people hope will be forgotten, Real Madrid walked onto the Estadio Nuevo Los Carmenes with the Pasillo from the Granada players.

Since Real Madrid have officially been crowned champions against Athletic Bilbao during their last game, Jose Mourinho decided to switch around the starting lineup: Antonio Adan, Raul Albiol, Raphael Varane, Ricardo Carvalho, Marcelo, Nuri Sahin, Esteban Granero, Kaka, Angel Di Maria, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Karim Benzema.

The first half was horrible for Real Madrid as Franco Jara was able to get the opening goal for Granada after only five minutes. They also had many chances to score as Real Madrid seemed lost and very unmotivated. Nothing really came out of the first half for them as any opportunities were easily dealt with by the Granada back-line and any chances were wasted by Real Madrid.

Jose Mourinho was not at all happy with what he saw and decided to make two substitutions at half time. He took off Nuri Sahin and Kaka and put in Xabi Alonso and Gonzalo Higuain.

Real Madrid were more of a threat in the second half but were nothing compared to their usual selves. Cristiano Ronaldo was finally able to open the scoring with a penalty on the 81st minute. For those last few minutes, Real Madrid finally seemed dangerous and motivated to try and get the winner. The winner came on the 92nd minute from an own goal by David Cortes which ended the game 2-1 to the visitors.

In all fairness, Granada deserved at least a point coming out of this game but were very unlucky to walk out with nothing. They now need a point at least in their last game against Rayo Vallecano to make sure they can stay in the top flight next season.

As for Real Madrid, they have one more game left next weekend against Real Mallorca and, if they win that game, they will have a record 100 Points in La Liga!


Real Madrid best Player: Karim Benzema
Worst Real Madrid Player: Kaka


LA LIGA TOP 5:

1. Real Madrid - 97 Points
2. Barcelona - 90 Points
3. Valencia - 61 Points
4. Malaga - 55 Points
5. Atletico Madrid - 53 Points

Athletic Bilbao 0-3 Real Madrid

The stage was set, San Mames. The fans were there prepared to watch history in the making. The fans who stayed back in Madrid were preparing a celebration at the famous Cibeles. Everything was ready for Real Madrid to win their 32nd league title. And Real Madrid did not disappoint.

Jose Mourinho has decided to make a couple changes to his starting lineup: Iker Casillas, Alvaro Arbeloa, Pepe, Sergio Ramos, Fabio Coentrao, Sami Khedira, Xabi Alonso, Mesut Ozil, Jose Callejon, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Gonzalo Higuain.

Cristiano Ronaldo missed an early penalty (his first of the La Liga season) but that did not shake Real Madrid one bit as they kept on attacking and were able to open the scoring after a sensational strike by Gonzalo Higuain after 16 minutes. Ronaldo was able to make up for his penalty miss with an amazing assist to Mesut Ozil, who was able to make it 2-0 to the visitors after 20 minutes. Both teams kept trying, with Athletic Bilbao hitting the post and Iker Casillas making some unbelievable saves to end the first half 2-0 to Real Madrid.

Getting back onto the pitch for the second half, it seemed as though the game never stopped. Los Merengues kept their attacking threat alive and were able to make it 3-0 after a Ronaldo header on the 50th minute. After that, things slowly starting to calm down as Real Madrid were pretty much guaranteed the win and didn't want to take any unnecessary risks.

Then the moment that everyone was waiting for happened. The whistle to end the game and crown Real Madrid as the La Liga Champions of 2012. They celebrated on the pitch and all the smiles and celebrations showed how hard they worked throughout this season to get what they deserved. A great win at a great stadium.

Jose Mourinho has now one the League title in four different countries: Portugal (Porto), England (Chelsea), Italy (Inter Milan), and now Spain with Real Madrid.

Cibeles is waiting for the major celebrations to begin...


CAMPEONES!!!!!!! HALA MADRID!

Real Madrid 3-0 Sevilla

With four games left in La Liga, Real Madrid have to win two to confirm the title and they took a big step towards that on Sunday afternoon.

Jose Mourinho was able to field a strong starting XI after a very difficult few games: Iker Casillas, Alvaro Arbeloa, Pepe, Sergio Ramos, Marcelo, Xabi Alonso, Esteban Granero, Mesut Ozil, Angel Di Maria, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Karim Benzema.

The first half was very intense with both teams finding some great chances. Cristiano Ronaldo was able to get the opening goal after only 19 minutes. There were a lot of missed chances from both sides as Ronaldo and Karim Benzema missed for Real Madrid, while Jesus Navas and Alvaro Negredo missed some golden opportunities for Sevilla.

The second half was a little bit different though as Real Madrid pushed even harder. Three minutes into the half, Karim Benzema made it 2-0 after a great assist from Angel Di Maria. And four minutes later, on the 52nd minute, he was able to score a brace after a beautiful cross from Sergio Ramos to make it 3-0.

The game was something that Real Madrid needed after being knocked out of the Champions League. Thy needed this win to get themselves back on track and they did it perfectly. They now need one more win in any of their next three games with their next one coming on Wednesday against Athletic Bilbao in San Mames. Let's hope they are able to finish their objective there! Hala Madrid!


Best Real Madrid Player: Cristiano Ronaldo
Worst Real Madrid Player: Marcelo


LA LIGA TOP 5:

1. Real Madrid - 91 Points
2. Barcelona - 84 Points
3. Valencia - 55 Points
4. Malaga - 55 Points
5. Levante - 52 Points

Barcelona 1-2 Real Madrid

This was the night that many Madristas were trying to avoid and many Catalans were looking forward to. A win to Barcelona would mean that they are only one point behind with four games to go and a win for Madrid would increase the lead to seven points.

Jose Mourinho's preferred lineup for the night was: Iker Casillas, Alvaro Arbeloa, Sergio Ramos, Pepe, Fabio Coentrao, Sami Khedira, Xabi Alonso, Mesut Ozil, Angel Di Maria, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Karim Benzema.

Real Madrid started off this game controlling the play and trying to limit Barcelona's attacks, and it proved well as Sami Khedira (out of all people) was able to score the opening goal after only 17 minutes after a mistake by Carles Puyol. Barcelona kept trying with many chances coming in from Tello and Xavi but the first half ended 1-0 to the visitors.

As for the second half, things were different as Barcelona fought hard for a goal, with Tello missing an opportunity that would have probably gone in any other day. With Alexis Sanchez coming in for Xavi, the substitution seemed to be correct as he was able to score with the ball near the goal-line to make it 1-1 on the 70th minute. That seemed to be the "usual" Barcelona come back that Madristas have seen too often. But, only three minutes later, Cristiano Ronaldo was the man to prove everyone wrong as he was at the end of a Mesut Ozil pass to go around Victor Valdez and make it 2-1. That goal caught that Catalans by shock as Real Madrid then started defending and keeping possession to end the game with a massive three points.

This was more than a win. This game put Real Madrid ahead by seven points with only four games left. This showed that Real Madrid CAN beat Barcelona. This game showed determination. This was, more or less, a perfect game. 

Real Madrid have to stay focused though. They have not yet won the league. Also, with the second leg of the Champions League coming up against Bayern Munich, they need to keep this fighting spirit so that they can make it to the Final!

HALA MADRID!!

Worst Real Madrid Player: Angel Di Maria

Best Real Madrid Player: Sergio Ramos

Real Madrid 3-1 Sporting Gijon

The game where Real Madrid equalled their record of 107 goals in a single season, best part is they have a few more games to go...

Sporting Gijon surprised many with their starting tactics as they were playing with practically six defenders! As for Jose Mourinho, he has also made a couple changes for himself as he started with: Iker Casillas, Alvaro Arbeloa, Sergio Ramos, Pepe, Marcelo, Sami Khedira, Nuri Sahin, Mesut Ozil, Jose Callejon, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Gonzalo Higuain.

Sporting were very solid in defense breaking any of Real Madrid's attacks and also depending on the counter for them to score a goal. And it kind of worked as Sergio Ramos gave them a penalty after 30 minutes which was converted by Miguel De Las Cuevas. Real Madrid pressured even harder and 7 minutes later, it was Gonzalo Higuain who put the Whites back in the game and made it 1-1.

The second half was very different as Real Madrid found the needed spaces to get some great opportunities. It took some time though, and it was Cristiano Ronaldo who was able to score his 41st goal of the season, making it 2-1 to Real Madrid. It didn't stop there though as Karim Benzema put the fans at rest after being able to make it 3-1 on the 82nd minute.

Great to see Real Madrid back on track as three big games are now coming up. Two games against Bayern Munich for the Champions League semi-finals, and a "decider" game against Barcelona in between. They need to stay sharp and play the best football that they can possibly imagine...

Best Real Madrid Player: Cristiano Ronaldo

Worst Real Madrid Player: Alvaro Arbeloa

Real Madrid 5-2 APOEL Nicosia (Agg. 8-2)

As APOEL Nicosia walked onto the Santiago Bernabeu to play the second leg of their first ever Champions League Quarter Finals, Real Madrid knew that this would be quite a "relaxed" game having won the first leg 3-0.

Jose Mourinho decided to field a few players who don't usually get their chances while making sure that he still had a pretty strong team ready to play and win. The starting lineup was: Iker Casillas, Sergio Ramos, Raphael Varane, Pepe, Marcelo, Nuri Sahin, Esteban Granero, Kaka, Hamit Altintop, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Gonzalo Higuain.

It took a while for the opening goal but, after 26 minutes, it was Cristiano Ronaldo who scored after a tap-in to make it 1-0 to the hosts. 11 minutes later, on the 37th minute, it was Kaka who scored a wonderful goal for yards out to make it 2-0. Real Madrid weren't playing for a draw, they wanted to win this...

As the second half started, APOEL knew that any very minor hopes of winning were gone and they were just playing for the sake of playing. But that didn't mean that they won't try to score as Gustavo Manduca finished off a great play to score APOEL Nicosia's first ever Champions League Quarter Final goal. Cristiano Ronaldo then was able to make it 3-1 on the 75th minute.

Jose Callejon, who came as a substitute having recently returned from a minor injury, scored a great goal to increase Real Madrid's lead and make it 4-1. A minute later, Hamit Altintop awarded APOEL a penalty which was scored by Esteban Andres Solari on the 82nd minute.

Another man who also returned from injury was Angel Di Maria and he showed that he was ready to play as he scored a beautiful chip on the 84th minute to end the game 5-2 to Real Madrid.

It was really a wonderful game for the neutrals and it was great to see Real Madrid playing without any pressure and being able to rest a few of their players and giving a chance to the fringe players at the club. But now the biggest test so far awaits, a semi-final against Bayern Munich.

Best Real Madrid Player: Kaka

Worst Real Madrid Player: Hamit Altintop

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE SEMI FINALS:

APRIL 17: Bayern Munich VS Real Madrid

APRIL 18: Chelsea VS Barcelona

APRIL 24: Barcelona VS Chelsea

APRIL 25: Real Madrid VS Bayern Munich

APOEL Nicosia 0-3 Real Madrid

The soccer fans in Nicosia, Cyprus were prepared to see their team play in the Champions League Quarter Finals for the first time. Not only that, but it was against Real Madrid.

With Ricardo Carvalho, Jose Callejon, Lassana Diarra, Angel Di Maria and Xabi Alonso ruled out for the game, Jose Mourinho decided to change his team a little bit.

The starting lineup was Iker Casillas, Alvaro Arbeloa, Pepe, Sergio Ramos, Fabio Coentrao, Sami Khedira, Nuri Sahin, Mesut Ozil, Cristiano Ronaldo, Gonzalo Higuain, and Karim Benzema.

The first half was actually pretty disappointing. Putting aside the fact that APOEL had no shots on goal, Real Madrid weren't able to score no matter what despite having about 75% of the possession. It ended 0-0 with Karim Benzema missing one of the easiest chances he will ever have.

The second half pretty much continued on the same page as the first 45 minutes until Kaka came in for Higuain and Marcelo for Coentrao. That is when things finally changed as Real Madrid were able to make it 3-0 in 15 minutes. Benzema scored on the 74th minute from an assist by Kaka, then Kaka got himself on the scoresheet after a great Marcelo assist on the 82nd minute, and Benzema scored again in the 90th minute after a pass by Mesut Ozil.

In the end, it was a great away win for the Whites and now they have a very comfortable lead to take into the second leg in Madrid.

Worst Real Madrid Player: Gonzalo Higuain

Best Real Madrid Player: Nuri Sahin/Kaka

OTHER SCORES OF THE UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAUGE:

Benfica 0-1 Chelsea

Marseille 0-2 Bayern Munich

AC Milan 0-0 Barcelona

Real Madrid 5-1 Real Soceidad

After last weeks major dip in form, Real Madrid have bounced back in the perfect time. Jose Mourinho, Rui Faria, Pepe and Lassana Diarra were suspended. Also, Angel Di Maria, Ricardo Carvalho, and Jose Callejon were injured.

Real Madrid started off with the best team the possibly could have: Iker Casillas, Alvaro Arbeloa, Sergio Ramos, Raphael Varane, Marcelo, Sami Khedira, Xabi Alonso, Kaka, Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Gonzalo Higauin.

The Men in White started off perfectly with a great Gonzalo Higuain goal after only 6 minutes of the game. With Real Madrid keeping the pressure up throughout the first half, Cristiano Ronaldo was able to double the lead after 33 minutes and Karim Benzema made it 3-0 on the 41st minute. Xabi Prieto was able to give Real Soceidad a little bit of home after scoring a beautiful goal, which deflected off Sergio Ramos, to make it 3-1 after the first half.

Real Madrid kept on trying in the second half but slowed their game down a little bit as Benzema was able to score an amazing chip after a great assist by Xabi Alonso on the 49th minute. Ronaldo made it 5-1 on the 56th minute and the game ended with that score.

True, Real Soceidad seemed to walk onto the pitch "beaten" and didn't really seem to get into the game. But with the Champions League games coming up this week, this was a win that Real Madrid really needed to get their self-esteem back up and hopefully get back to winning ways after everything that has happened last week.

Also, it was great to see some faces on the pitch that many haven't seen in a while. With Fabio Coentrao coming on for Benzema; Nuri Sahin coming on for Sami Khedira, and Jese entering the pitch for Cristiano Ronaldo, it was a few minutes that those players really needed.

Worst Real Madrid Player: ---

Best Real Madrid Player: Karim Benzema

LA LIGA TOP 5:

1. Real Madrid - 75 Points

2. Barcelona - 69 Points

3. Valencia - 47 Points

4. Malaga - 47 Points

5. Levante - 44 Points

Villarreal 1-1 Real Madrid

Earlier in the week, Real Madrid had a 1-1 draw with Malaga which decreased their advantage over Barcelona to 8 points and now, three days later, that same advantage was decreased to 6 points.

Real Madrid needed to get the win against a Villarreal who, arguably, are going through the roughest time in a while. After getting a new coach, they have to try working extra hard to get themselves back up in the league. Real Madrid started strong with a lot of the chances somehow not going in as Diego Lopez was able to make some amazing saves.

The first half ended 0-0 and the players came in the second half with a mentality to win after a "boring" first half. After 62 minutes, Cristiano Ronaldo was able to get the opener after an unbelievable assist from Mesut Ozil. As we were winning, it was also when the whole game went downhill...

The referee has been making calls all game that didn't make any sense whatsoever, especially awarding Ruben (Villarreal) two yellow cards. Seriously.

Villarreal were handed a free kick in the 82nd minute which Marcos Senna was able to score and equalize the game. In the next 10 minutes, here are the highlights: Rui Faria red card, Jose Mourinho red card, Sergio Ramos red card, Mesut Ozil red card, Pepe calls the referee a "son of a b****", Villarreal 11 players on the pitch somehow.

I don't even want to try going into what happened there because it was extremely obvious that the referee was against us for one reason or another. 90% of the calls really didn't make any sense so I guess it was just one of those days...

Real Madrid are now 6 points ahead of Barcelona with some very difficult games coming up.

Real Madrid Worst Player: Lassana Diarra

Real Madrid Best Player: Cristiano Ronaldo

LA LIGA TOP 5:

1. Real Madrid - 72 Points

2. Barcelona - 66 Points

3. Valencia - 47 Points

4. Levante - 44 Points

5. Malaga - 41 Points

Real Madrid 1-1 Malaga

It was bound to happen. Everyone saw this day coming sooner or later. Real Madrid's 11-game winning streak has now come to an end.

Real Madrid started the game with a strong squad: Iker Casillas, Lassana Diarra, Pepe, Sergio Ramos, Marcelo, Sami Khedira, Xabi Alonso, Kaka, Cristiano Ronaldo, Mesut Ozil, and Karim Benzema. They came out wearing shirts supporting Eric Abidal and Fabrice Muamba.

The game started off a little shaky with Malaga having a few good chances but the Men in White were able to finally take the lead after a clean finish by Karim Benzema on the 35th minute. The game kept going well but Madrid never seemed to be able to take full control of the game as many of their passes went astray and they didn't seem to fully understand each other at times. Malaga's goalkeeper, Willy Caballero, made a few unbelievable saves to keep his team in the game with shots from Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka, and Benzema somehow being saved in spectacular fashion.

The second half started and people who have been watching Real Madrid know that usually they come out strong and ready after some kind of pep talk from Jose Mourinho. That wasn't the case for that game though as it seemed like nothing really changed. Real Madrid arguably deserved a couple penalties but these things happen in the game. The main reason we drew the game was not because of unfair refereeing, but because we just couldn't score no matter what happens. Both teams had their chances but Malaga were able to score on the 92nd minute after a great free kick by Santiago Cazorla, which left Real Madrid unable to get the winner with barely any time left.

Real Madrid need to come back to playing how they used to during most of the season or else they will keep dropping points. We are not 8 points ahead of Barcelona and, even though it's still a safe lead, we need to be careful since there is still a good amount of games left this season.

Best Real Madrid Player: Mesut Ozil

Worst Real Madrid Player: Karim Benzema

LA LIGA TOP 5:

1. Real Madrid - 71 Points

2. Barcelona - 63 Points

3. Valencia - 47 Points

4. Levante - 41 Points

5. Malaga - 41 Points

Champions League Quarter Final Draw

The Quarter-Final draw was finally made for the UEFA Champions League. With Real Madrid, AC Milan, Marseille, APOEL, Benfica, Bayern Munich, Bayern Munich and Chelsea left, here are the games that will be played in the next round.

QUARTER FINALS:

1. APOEL VS Real Madrid

2. Marseille VS Bayern Munich

3. Benfica VS Chelsea

4. AC Milan VS Barcelona

SEMI FINALS:

Winner of Game 2 VS Winner of Game 1

Winner of Game 3 VS Winner of Game 4

With all respect to APOEL, Real Madrid were handed a relatively easy draw for the Quarter Finals but are likely to face a hard test ahead against Bayern Munich to make it to the final. As for the other draws, Chelsea have "come back to life" after their brilliant showing against Napoli and now have to be wary of Benfica's threat. The biggest game of the draw though is AC Milan against Barcelona and many will be waiting to see what will happen there.

All the talk is about the potential Clasico Final if Real Madrid and Barcelona are able to make it there in about two months time. But I think it would be better to wait until then before talking too much about it now since we still have a few games to play until then.

Real Madrid 4-1 CSKA Moscow (Agg. 5-2)

To keep their Champions League hopes alive, Real Madrid needed to win tonight or go for a 0-0 draw, the win seemed like the safer option. After a 1-1 draw in Moscow, Real Madrid came back to fight for their spot in the Quarter-Finals. Starting with Iker Casillas, Alvaro Arbeloa, Pepe, Sergio Ramos, Marcelo, Xabi Alonso, Sami Khedira, Mesut Ozil, Kaka, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Gonzalo Higuain, they needed this win.

As the first half wore on, CSKA had the better chances of the game, getting some dangerous attacks on Casillas while Real Madrid's attacks weren't as threatening on Sergey Chepchugov. But it was Gonzalo Higuain who was able to get the opening goal in the 26th minute after a great overhead pass from Khedira to Kaka, who put in a low cross for Higuain to get the opener. The first half ended 1-0 to the hosts and things seemed to be going the right way.

As the second half began, we needed more goals to be safer and Cristiano Ronaldo stepped up as usual to make it 2-0 to the Whites on the 55th minute. Exhaustion started to get to the players, especially Mesut Ozil, Kaka, and Higuain. Jose Mourinho took off Higuain for Karim Benzema who was able to make an instant impact as his first shot rebounded off the goalkeeper and scored to make it 3-0 on the 70th minute.

CSKA Moscow weren't planning to give up as Zoran Tosic scored a beautiful goal to make it 3-1 and they kept on trying but Real Madrid's counter-attack was too much for them as Benzema crossed it in for Ronaldo to score into the open goal on the 94th minute to end the game 4-1 to Real Madrid.

It was a great game overall but we've seen Real Madrid play better than that. But they did the job, and they did it very well. Now, we will have to wait for the draw on Friday to see who Real Madrid's next opponents will be in the Quarter Finals.

OTHER SCORES OF THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE:

Arsenal 3-0 AC Milan (Agg. 3-4)

Benfica 2-0 Zenit St. Petersburg (Agg. 4-3)

Barcelona 7-1 Bayer Leverkusen (Agg. 10-2)

APOEL 1-1 Olympique Lyonnais [4-3 Penalties] (Agg. 1-1)

Bayern Munich 7-0 FC Basel (Agg. 7-1)

Inter Milan 2-1 Marseille (Agg. 2-2)

Chelsea 4-1 Napoli (Agg. 5-4)

TEAMS IN THE QUARTER FINALS

AC Milan

Benfica

Barcelona

APOEL Nicosia

Bayern Munich

Marseille

Real Madrid

Chelsea

Real Betis 2-3 Real Madrid

Trying their best to keep their 10-point advantage over Barcelona, Real Madrid walked into the pitch wearing their red jersey, which has proven to be quite lucky so far this season as they have won every game so far while wearing it.

The starting lineup for Real Madrid consisted of: Iker Casillas, Alvaro Arbeloa, Pepe, Sergio Ramos, Marcelo, Xabi Alonso, Sami Khedira, Mesut Ozil, Kaka, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Gonzalo Higuain.

As the men in White (or, in this instance, red) started off the game, things didn't seem to click. They weren't playing the as we are all used to seeing as their passes went astray and losing the ball in the final third. Things went from bad to worse after only 10 minutes as Jorge Molina was able to get the opening goal after some bad defending. Real Madrid kept on trying but things really weren't going their way until Mesut Ozil gave a great overhead pass to Gonzalo Higuain who was able to get a great individual goal 25 minutes into the game. The first half ended in a draw and Real Madrid knew they needed to step it up in the second half since Real Betis were playing a great game.

The main talking point at the beginning of the second half was the sudden referee change, as it could possibly start many talks and theories as to why it happened. The reason given (which is a big possibility) is that the original referee of the game was suffering from a cramp and wasn't really able to continue in the second half.

Only seven minutes into the second half, Cristiano Ronaldo scored a goal which could have been the beginning to Real Madrid controlling the game as they have done so many times before but Real Betis weren't willing to let that happen as a dreadful mistake by Alvaro Arbeloa gave Jefferson Montero the chance to score an equalizer on the 55th minute.

As the game wore on, both teams kept trying and there were a couple fouls that went unpunished for both teams. The two biggest talking points though would have to be a penalty for both teams. Kaka was tackled inside the box, which I guess could have gone either way but a clear handball by Xabi Alonso went unpunished and it just seems like he got lucky on the day. Cristiano Ronaldo was finally able to score the winner of the game after 73 minutes to end the game 3-2 to the visitors.

It was a game that was much tougher than many expected and Real Betis showed great determination to fight for some points but Real Madrid were the team to walk out with three points in the end.

Real Madrid Worst Player: Alvaro Arbeloa

Real Madrid Best Player: Cristiano Ronaldo

LA LIGA TOP 5:

1. Real Madrid - 70 Points

2. Barcelona - 60 Points

3.Valencia - 44 Points

4. Malaga - 40 Points

5. Levante - 38 Points

Rayo Vallecano 0-1 Real Madrid

With an early game, Real Madrid walked onto the pitch wearing their red jersey for the third time this season. They needed the three points to keep the 10 point advantage on rivals Barcelona. Starting with Iker Casillas, Alvaro Arbeloa, Sergio Ramos, Pepe, Marcelo, Xabi Alonso, Sami Khedira, Mesut Ozil, Kaka, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Gonzalo Higuain, they needed the win.

The first half started and Rayo were determined to show that they're no pushovers as the kept on attacking Real Madrid with the visitors not really able to do anything major. Both teams kept trying as Iker Casillas made a lot of saves to keep Real Madrid hoping. It was a terrible first half and things needed to change when the men went for the break. The major talk of the half was Sergio Ramos. While already having a yellow card, his elbow on Diego Costa went unseen and many believe it was supposed to be a red. In my opinion, Ramos should consider himself extremely lucky to stay on the pitch for the full 90 minutes.

As the second half began with no changes, Real Madrid showed more determination, and no one more than Cristiano Ronaldo who was able to score an amazing backheel kick to make it 1-0 for the visitors after 54 minutes. After that, both teams kept trying and Rayo were very close to getting the equalizer numerous times from Michu, Diego Costa, and Raul Tamudo.

During the second half, Jose Mourinho made three changes: Fabio Coentrao on for Kaka who had a bad game where he made no difference and was pretty much invisible on the pitch; Jose Callejon for Gonzalo Higuain who missed a few good chances but never gave up on a challenge; and Esteban Granero for Marcelo who had a pretty good game overall.

In the end, Real Madrid walked out with three points but it was a game to be forgotten as many could see this game as an unlucky win for the visitors. Even Jose Mourinho, in his post match press conference, admitted that Rayo Vallecano really did not deserve to lose. Either way, you can't really expect every game to be beautiful or easy and in the end, the three points was what really mattered and Real Madrid were able to achieve that.

Real Madrid Worst Player: Sergio Ramos

Real Madrid Best Player: Cristiano Ronaldo

LA LIGA TOP 5:

1. Real Madrid - 64 Points

2. Barcelona - 54 Points

3. Valencia - 40 Points

4. Levante - 35 Points

5. Athletic Bilbao - 34 Points

Real Madrid 4-2 Levante

Real Madrid walked into the Santiago Bernabeu knowing that if they beat Levante (who won the last meeting 1-0 against Madrid), they will officially be 10 points ahead of Barcelona. This lead would give them some minor room for error and also will give them much needed comfort in the league.

Barcelona lost their game the night before after a shocking 3-2 result against Osasuna and Real Madrid weren’t willing to let this opportunity pass them. With Jose Mourinho fielding Iker Casillas, Alvaro Arbeloa, Pepe, Sergio Ramos, Fabio Coentrao, Xabi Alonso, Esteban Granero, Mesut Ozil, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Gonzalo Higuain, Real Madrid were ready to win this game.

Things didn’t look too bright as Cabral was able to get a shocking goal against Real Madrid after only 5 minutes. But throughout the first half, Real Madrid have shown that they will fight and won’t give up as they kept attacks coming from every possible way. Benzema scored the equalizer but was controversially ruled offside. The counted equalizer came late in the first half from a penalty by Cristiano Ronaldo.

As the second half started, Real Madrid kept on attacking as Ronaldo scored after a great cross by Gonzalo Higuain to make it 2-1 after 50 minutes. Only seven minutes later, it was Ronaldo yet again to make it 3-1 with a great shot. Levante were able to pull one back as Kone made it 3-2 after 63 minutes but Benzema’s great shot from the side of the box made it 4-2 after 66 minutes to make the game end 4-2 to the hosts.

It was a beautiful game with some great goals and great playing by both teams. Real Madrid are now 10 points ahead of their rivals and, if they do not end up winning the league, they only have themselves to blame. This lead can increase if Real Madrid beat Barcelona later in the season but that’s a talk reserved for some other time. They will need to keep up their fighting mentality because there’s still a lot of games left and we still have not officially won the league. Anything can happen…

Real Madrid Worst Player: Alvaro Arbeloa

Real Madrid Best Player: Cristiano Ronaldo

LA LIGA TOP 5:

1. Real Madrid – 58 Points

2. Barcelona – 48 Points

3. Valencia – 40 Points

4. Levante – 32 Points

5. Espanyol – 32 Points

Getafe 0-1 Real Madrid

Real Madrid walked into the Coliseum Alfonso Perez in Getafe to what they knew would be a hard game but a needed 3 points to keep their 7 point lead over league rivals, Barcelona. Also, the cold and heavy winds surely weren't ready to help in any way possible.

In a game that has ended 4-2 to Real Madrid the first time they met this season, Getafe are known for fighting really hard when it comes to game where they are the underdogs, little need reminder of the shocking 1-0 victory against Barcelona.

The game started off in typical Real Madrid fashion as they kept attacking the hosts with everything they've got. After 18 minutes, Mesut Ozil crossed in a great corner which was greatly handled by a header into the back of the net by Sergio Ramos. For the remainder of the first half, chances kept coming for both teams as Cristiano Ronaldo almost got himself onto the scoresheet with a free kick. The first half ended 1-0 to the visitors.

As the second half began, both teams kept trying. Real Madrid knew that a one-goal lead is never enough since the smallest of mistakes could lead to a Getafe goal. Real Madrid had a great chance to make it 2-0 as Ozil passed it in for Karim Benzema but all he was able to do was shoot the ball straight at the keeper.

Overall, it was a slow game with a few chances coming in for both teams but Real Madrid got a very deserved three points to keep their lead at the top of La Liga.

Worst Real Madrid Player: Kaka

Best Real Madrid Player: Mesut Ozil

LA LIGA TOP 5:

1. Real Madrid - 55 Points

2. Barcelona - 48 Points

3. Valencia - 37 Points

4. Levante - 32 Points

5. Espanyol - 32 Points

Real Madrid 3-1 Real Zaragoza

After all of the Clasico hype, Real Madrid hosted Zaragoza to try keeping their advantage at the top of the league.

On paper, this would probably be one of the easiest games that Real Madrid would play this season since Zaragoza were having many problems of their own while they sit at the bottom of the table with only 12 points, scoring only two goals in the past eight games, and only winning two games throughout this whole season.

And, as most expected, this game started off with Real Madrid applying all the pressure while Cristiano Ronaldo missed a free-kick and Karim Benzema missed a header that, on any other day, he would have easily scored. And, after 11 minutes, it happened: Lafita makes it 1-0 to Zaragoza after some awful defending and an easy tap-in. As concern grew at the Bernabeu, the Whites kept on fighting. 32 minutes into the game, the man who many have pretty much given up on, scored the equalizer to continue a great performance: Kaka. A very great play by the team topped up with a great finish by the Brazilian.

As the teams went into the rooms 1-1 at half time, Real Madrid knew they had to come out and keep fighting, and that's exactly what they did as Cristiano Ronaldo was able to find the back of the net four minutes into the second half. Being 2-1 up, Madrid had to stay strong at the back to avoid any surprise goals from the visitors. On the 56th minute, Mesut Ozil relaxed the whole Bernabeu with a great finish ending the game 3-1 to Real Madrid and guaranteeing them to stay 5 points ahead of Barcelona.

Best Real Madrid Player: Mesut Ozil

Worst Real Madrid Player: Pepe

***

17th placed Villarreal hosted 2nd placed Barcelona in what was supposed to be a very straight-forward game for the Catalans which ended in a 0-0 draw!

Real Madrid stay in top spot 7 points ahead of Barcelona!!!

LA LIGA TOP 5:

1. Real Madrid: 52 Points

2. Barcelona: 45 Points

3. Valencia: 35 Points

4. Levante: 31 Points

5. Espanyol: 31 Points

Barcelona 2-2 Real Madrid (Agg. 4-3)

And the referee takes the headlines of the Clasico yet again...

Real Madrid started off knowing that this was going to be a very, very difficult game. They went out attacking Barcelona with all they've got. Starting with Iker Casillas, Alvaro Arbeloa, Pepe, Sergio Ramos, Fabio Coentrao, Lassana Diarra, Xabi Alonso, Mesut Ozil, Kaka, Cristiano Ronaldo and Gonzalo Higuain they knew what the mission was.

Starting off strong with shots coming from Higuain, Ozil, Ronaldo, and Kaka, Real Madrid were just not able to score. Then things started to go wrong as Pedro scored in the 43rd minute after being unmarked and recieving a smart pass from Lionel Messi. Madrid kept trying, but things got even more complicated as Dani Alves scored a "golazo" on the 45th minute making the tie look as good as over.

Second half was a new story as both teams kept attacking and Real Madrid putting more pressure than ever to finally score on the 68th minute with a great goal by Ronaldo and then just a few minutes later, Benzema scored to make it 2-2. 18 minutes left and Real Madrid needed one more goal, that is when things went wrong.

Fouls, penalties, unfair play, a goal and everything! They all went against Madrid and it was all similar territory once again. The referee was clearly favoring Barcelona after a disallowed goal from Sergio Ramos and a very clear 'textbook' penalty not counted, they kept trying. And the unfair refereeing never stopped. Why? No one knows I guess but, yet again, Real Madrid find themselves knocked out of a cup against the Catalans because of the referee. Something seriously has to be done!

How can it be that two seasons in a row, during the games where Real Madrid fully deserve a win, the referee makes sure it doesn't happen? Is someone from Barcelona bribing them? I honestly doubt it seeing that Barcelona are one of the biggest teams in the world, they wouldn't go to that level would they? I guess we'll never really know...

Real Madrid played beautiful football (excluding Pepe because he was simply a disgrace) .. They tried, they didn't give up in a match that many thought is as good as over. They were the better team but football didn't agree with us.

From the whole game, putting aside the referee, I have two major complaints: Pepe and, what I want to call, the "Mystery of Madrid"

Pepe needs to realize what team he's playing for and stop trying to be "Madrid's Busquets". He was awful with the elbowing, fouling, and the diving! Fine, this could benefit us if we get a good foul or maybe even injure Messi perhaps, but it's not worth it. He needs to respect the crest on his shirt and play pure football! I'm really hoping Jose Mourinho has a good talk or something with him.

Real Madrid are known for their fighting spirit, yes. But last night's game was simply amazing! My question is the following: Why do they fight so hard when they realize that everything is against them? The whole 'underdog' status could be talked about here, but they need to keep this spirit in every game because then, and only then, we will be unstoppable (a reference to the ref needs to be made here since he is apparently proving we're not unstoppable). They need to keep this game in mind when focusing on the future of the season.

Real Madrid are out of the Copa del Rey and that's that. But we didn't go down without a fight. Great game...

Worst Real Madrid Player: Gonzalo Higuain

Best Real Madrid Player: Mesut Ozil

We need this now more than ever...

Tonight Barcelona will be hosting Real Madrid at the Camp Nou for the second leg of the Copa del Rey Quarter Finals. During the past year, we have experienced many types of controversies surrounding the Clasico. And, this kind of goes without saying, Real Madrid were on the "winning side" of it all just once.

Last week, for the first leg of the Cup, the Santiago Bernabeu witnessed yet another loss for their beloved team. Barcelona won the game 2-1 with goals from Carles Puyol and Eric Abidal to cancel out Cristiano Ronaldo's early goal.

Being the current holders of this Cup, Real Madrid should (and I'm really hoping they would) fight for this win. They need it to restore order in the Spanish Capital, they really do. Just when we thought that we have seen all kinds of things coming from the media, little could be surprised to see that there is more in this. And they have officially taken it to a whole new level.

After vaguely "researching" the teams that Jose Mourinho usually fields, they realized something: Mourinho prefers the Portuguese players over the Spanish. Yes, this talk was also in action earlier in the season but no one really minded what exactly was going through his mind as long as he can do one thing: Beat Barcelona. So far, in the two tests he's had this season, Real Madrid have failed to deliver losing 3-1 and 2-1; going in the lead BOTH times.

The media are unhappy with Mourinho, the fans are unhappy, the members of the board are unhappy, the players are unhappy. That is what the magazines and newspapers are trying to convince people but please, see it this way:

Jose Mourinho arrived at Real Madrid with goals to, let's keep it as simple as we can, bring the silverware home. Before he arrived, Real Madrid were clearly second best to Barcelona, they were getting knocked out of the Copa del Rey against second division teams such as Alcorcon, they have not made it to the Quarter Finals of the Champions League in years.

Mourinho walks in and brings his years of experiencing with him. During his first season in charge, the difference was massive! Yes, Barcelona were still miles ahead in the Liga but we were still quite close. We won the Copa del Rey for the first time in many years after beating Barcelona 1-0 in the final. We made it past the second round by beating our "Champions League Rivals" Olymique Lyon but crashed out of the semi-finals against the Catalans in a very close encounter.

Now, halfway through the second season, Real Madrid are five points ahead of Barcelona in the league which is what Jose Mourinho is fighting for the most and has made it clear that this is his target this year. Also, in the Champions League, we are in the second round against CSKA Moscow after making a record of wins in the group stages. As for the Copa del Rey, they are in the quarter finals, in the second round against Barcelona.

So, we really aren't doing too badly! Yes, it is completely understandable that beating Barcelona is an integral part of our plan but right now, we have to accept the fact that this just isn't happening. We need to be patient and realize how much this team has been growing in the past couple years. We need to keep supporting the team no matter what.

We need this win now more than ever so that we can restore order at the "White House" and go back to doing what we are known for: Winning.

Real Madrid 4-1 Athletic Bilbao

Coming off yet another Clasico loss in the Copa del Rey while keeping an eye on the second leg, Real Madrid hosted Athletic Bilbao in what has proven to be a very difficult encounter. Jose Mourinho decided to surprise the fans by making more changes to the first team squad that played against Barcelona. When Madrid played against the Catalans, the back-four consisted of Hamit Altintop, Sergio Ramos, Ricardo Carvalho, and Fabio Coentrao. From all these names, only Sergio Ramos started in center back partnered up with Raphael Varane. On the right was Alvaro Arbeloa (who was suspended against Barcelona) and on the left was Marcelo. Also, in midfield, Esteban Granero was given a surprise start for the first time since last season in midfield with Xabi Alonso. Kaka partnered up with Cristiano Ronaldo and Mesut Ozil while Karim Benzema lead the attack.

If this game wasn't interesting enough (especially when seeing the starting line-up) Iker Casillas played his 600th game for Real Madrid after 13 years of playing with the club. Ironically, his debut game was also against Athletic Bilbao.

The game began and both teams seemed very hungry for this win with each one attacking back and forth but it only took 13 minutes for the opener as Bilbao's most dangerous man, Fernando Llorente, scored after a superb cross to make it 1-0 for the visitors. Some panic crept into the Madristas but the team kept on fighting. After a couple attempts, Marcelo was able to get the equalizer on the 25th minute to bring the Whites back into the game.

As the second half started, Kaka was fouled in the box after only 25 seconds and Cristiano Ronaldo scored a penalty to make it 2-1. Ronaldo was able to score yet another penalty on the 67th minute after Mesut Ozil was tripped in the box and De Marcos getting a red card.

The game kept going and no other than Jose Callejon, the second half substitute, was able to make it 4-1 with a great finish in the 86th minute.

This was a great game for Real Madrid but they have to keep in mind what is coming up really soon. They will be at the Camp Nou to play against Barcelona and being behind by a goal already will be very difficult to come back from.

Best Real Madrid Player: Marcelo

Worst Real Madrid Player: Alvaro Arbeloa

LA LIGA TOP 5:

1. Real Madrid - 49 Points

2. Barcelona - 44 Points

3. Valencia - 35 Points

4. Levante - 31 Points

5. Espanyol - 28 Points

Real Madrid 1-2 Barcelona

Another Clasico, another loss. As expected by many, Barcelona were able to edge out the game and beat Real Madrid during the first leg of the Copa del Rey Quarter Finals.

To start it off, Jose Mourinho surprised many with his choice of the back four. Instead of the expected Lassana Diarra, Sergio Ramos, Pepe and Marcelo, the coach decided to field Hamit Altintop, Sergio Ramos, Ricardo Carvalho, and Fabio Coentrao. Now, I feel there were three problems with that. Altintop has not started a game yet this season and putting him against Barcelona is too much pressure for someone like him. Carvalho has just come back from a long injury and started the Clasico so there was a very big risk taken there. Lastly, Coentrao starting in my opinion was a mistake. It is arguable that he is better defensively that Marcelo but we needed that spark that Marcelo has given time and time again. Now, in Mourinho's defense, Carvalho had a decent game but Altintop and Coentrao didn't really impress me too much to be honest.

Next, the fact that Pepe has played in central midfield made him less valuable to us because he wasn't really able to be himself while playing there. It has been proven so many times that when you parter Pepe up with Sergio Ramos, our defense is solid. These types of changes should not be made for a Clasico. Gonzalo Higuain started on the right and that should have been Jose Callejon. Higuain is a great player but Callejon has the needed speed and ambition for a game like this.

Even though the game started off well with a great goal by Cristiano Ronaldo in the 11th minute, hopes were still low as people remembered Karim Benzema's early goal in the first Clasico this season which ended in a 3-1 loss. Real Madrid were playing on the counter attack and it seemed to be working quite well. Barcelona kept up the pressure and as Alexis Sanchez, Andres Iniesta and Leonel Messi tried everything they possibly could, they were not able to find the net during the first 45 minutes.

The second half changed everything as captain Carles Puyol scored a header only three minutes into the half and the pressure kept on coming as Real Madrid were forced to stay back with rare attacks coming to an end as soon as the Whites crossed the half-way line. To top it all off, Eric Abidal was able to score the winner in the 77th minute to end the game with yet another Clasico win at the Santiago Bernabeu as the Camp Nou now awaits the second leg which, in the mind of many Madristas, is a game that is as good as lost by now.

That negative thinking has not crept into the fans' mind for nothing. After seeing Real Madrid excel in so many games, coming up against Barcelona and winning shouldn't really be considered impossible. But it seems as though it almost is with Real Madrid not even able to score more than one goal against them as Barcelona keep firing at us with everything they've got. People may argue it is a fact of fear or cockiness. When it comes to fear, it's understandable but we need to keep in mind we are a great team and we've proven that in the past. Also, we CAN beat Barcelona, we just need to keep a steady 90 minutes against them and fire every weapon we have. We also need to avoid exposing our weaknesses to them because the Catalans know very well how to work off the opponents mistakes.

Real Madrid NEED to find ways to beat the Catalans and it should be found soon before we lose more cups due to the fact that we simply cannot beat them.

Worst Real Madrid Player: Pepe

Best Real Madrid Player: Cristiano Ronaldo

Real Madrid - Barcelona (Pre-Match Copa del Rey)

Yet again, as it has been happening all too often, Real Madrid and Barcelona will meet again (for the first time in 2012) during the Quarter Finals of the Copa del Rey.

Little is left to say or do before the starting whistle and no one really knows what to possibly expect.

REAL MADRID'S ROAD TO THIS GAME:

Ponferradina 0-2 Real Madrid

Real Madrid 5-1 Ponferradina

Real Madrid 3-2 Malaga

Malaga 0-1 Real Madrid

BARCELONA'S ROAD TO THIS GAME:

L'Hospitalet 0-1 Barcelona

Barcelona 9-0 L'Hospitalet

Barcelona 4-0 Osasuna

Osasuna 1-2 Barcelona

From the looks of things, seems as though Barcelona may have the upper hand if we only take this competition. But, with everything, I don't think its a matter of who has the upper hand, its simply about the nerves and who is able to deal with the pressure better.

Last month, these two teams played against each other for the first meeting in the league. If Real Madrid won, they would be six points ahead of Barcelona and that would give them a lot of breathing space. Overall, Barcelona were the team who had more pressure on them. In the end (except for the first 15 minutes or so), Barcelona beat Real Madrid 3-1.

Real Madrid need this win. Not only for the chance of progressing, but also just the idea of getting a much-needed win against their rivals. If not for themselves, then at least to the fans. And I really doubt that Jose Mourinho will want to take more criticism than he already is at the moment. So, I feel Real Madrid need this win more that Barcelona do but that's really not going to make a difference when the game begins. The team who plays best on the night will win. It's that simple. Well, usually it's that simple; nothing can really be too definite when you play against them...

My Expected Line-up:

Iker Casillas

Lassana Diarra; Sergio Ramos; Raul Albiol/Pepe; Marcelo

Xabi Alonso, Fabio Coentrao; Mesut Ozil; Jose Callejon/Angel Di Maria; Cristiano Ronaldo

Karim Benzema

Hala Madrid!!

Real Madrid 3-2 Malaga

After a two week break, Real Madrid finally took the field again for the first time in 2012 to host Malaga in the first leg of the Copa del Rey. With Sergio Ramos, Angel Di Maria, and Ricardo Carvalho all out injured, Jose Mourinho decided to start with Iker Casillas, Alvaro Arbeloa, Raul Albiol, Pepe, Marcelo, Xabi Alonso, Lassana Diarra, Jose Callejon, Kaka, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Gonzalo Higuain. Real Madrid expected a comfortable win but expectations meant nothing that night.

Real Madrid started off looking quite uncomfortable on the ball without many attempts going forward. Things got worse as Sergio Sanchez was able to score a header after only 10 minutes to make it 1-0 to Malaga. Madrid tried a little harder but nothing really seemed to work, and they really weren't trying hard enough as Martin Demicheles made it 2-0 from yet another header. Things were really not looking too good for the hosts at half time as they went into the dressing room leaving many of the fans in disbelief.

Jose Mourinho knew that something needed to change as he really did not seem happy with the first half performance, "It's a shame that I cannot make eleven substitutions!" He decided to field his team with three differences. Lassana Diarra was off for Sami Khedira, Mesut Ozil for Kaka, and Karim Benzema for Jose Callejon.

Things seemed to make sense as Khedira was finally able to make it 2-1 in the 68th minute and just two minutes later, Higuain took advantage of a horrible defensive mistake to round the keeper and make it 2-2. The 78th minute was when Real Madrid were finally able to take the lead after a great play and a great finish by Benzema to make it 3-2.

After coming back from a long break, things like these should be expected but Madrid really need to be on their top game and avoid the silly mistakes they made in the first half. Now, they have two games coming up next week against Grenada in the Spanish League and the second leg of the Copa del Rey against Malaga. Let's hope we see a change in how the team is after coming back.

OTHER SCORES OF THE COPA:

Albacete 0-0 Athletic Bilbao

Mirandes 2-0 Racing Santander

Alcorcon 2-1 Levante

Real Sociedad 2-0 Real Mallorca

Barcelona 4-0 Osasuna

Copa del Rey Draw

In the Round of 32, Real Madrid played against Ponferradina and beat them 7-1 on aggregate with some great goals and good play especially in the second leg. The Round of 16 has now been confirmed where Real Madrid will play against Malaga on January 4.

As for rivals, Barcelona, they played against L'Hospitalet and beat them 10-0 on aggregate. They will be playing against Osasuna in the Round of 16.

Now, here is where the problem comes. If both, Real Madrid and Barcelona, win in the Round of 16, they will play each other during the Quarter-Finals of the Copa del Rey and, let's be honest, it will be a game that both teams are worried to play yet Madristas will be the people who are more fearful due to past experiences.

Focusing mostly on the three encounters this season, it's mostly a "roller-coster" prediction. When Real Madrid faced Barcelona in the Supercopa before the season began, Barcelona won overall but it was a game that could have easily gone the other way. As the first leg ended 2-2, both teams kept fighting and by the end of the second leg it was 2-2 again until Lionel Messi proved to be the difference by scoring a very late goal to end the games 5-4 on aggregate. Things were looking good though overall for the Whites as the season was about to kick off. All around, you could hear the talks from Madristas: "This is our year"; "Barcelona's reign will end and Real Madrid will be back to where they belong" and many more positive thoughts were floating. As for the Catalans, their thoughts were very different from each other with some saying "We will keep winning no matter what" or "Yes, this is the year Real Madrid come back. We need to be careful".

As these talks were going on, we saw some great performances from both teams and it was time for the first Clasico of the League this season. We all know how that went as Real Madrid showed that they are STILL fearful of the Catalans and lost 3-1.

Yes, Real Madrid are ahead by 3 points, but the talks have changed. The fear from the past seasons have started to kick in. And even worse, the fact that Real Madrid are still not ready to beat the rivals is once again becoming a truth that many may have to accept. As Real Madrid crashed against Barcelona, so did any hope of winning "for sure". Yes, the league is far from over and anything can happen but no doubt that this was still a blow.

Now, the possibility of Real Madrid and Barcelona meeting again next month (if both make it to the Quarter-Finals) is very real and the discomfort is back from many Madristas.

My honest thoughts are that Real Madrid can beat them if we play our game but a part of me is already giving up on the CdR because of that game. Of course, you never know what can happen in football nowadays but we have to face reality and something NEEDS to change if we are to beat them during the next encounter. There is also the possibility that we could play them during the Champions League but nothing has been confirmed yet. We will think of that if/when it happens.

The draw is as follows:

What are your thoughts on the potential game?

Real Madrid 5-1 Ponferradina (7-1 Agg)

This was a day to remember for many Real Madrid players and fans as the second leg of the Copa Del Rey was played.

Jose Mourinho decided to rest many of his players such as Sergio Ramos, Cristiano Ronaldo, Marcelo, Iker Casillas and Gonzalo Higuain. Jorge Casado was able to make his debut in the first team as left-back and had a pretty good game.

The game started off well as Real Madrid were trying to increase their advantage, which Jose Callejon was able to get on the 25th minute. Right before half time, Nuri Sahin scored his first ever goal for the first team. It is also the first time he's ever scored a header!

As the second half started, the game looked to be more intense as Raphael Varane was able to score in the 49th minutes as Esteban Granero's free-kick was rebounded off the goalkeeper. Only five minutes later, it was a moment to remember for Ponferradina as Acoran scored to reduce the deficit to 3-1. Joselu came onto the pitch as the fans were all chanting his name. One minute later, on the 79th minute, Joselu scored his first ever senior goal with his first touch on the pitch.

Jose Callejon kept proving why he should be playing more often as he made it 5-1 after a great pass by Sahin on the 88th minute.

Now as Real Madrid are off for two weeks, this week was a great way to end 2011 as they beat Sevilla 6-2 and now Ponferradina 5-1. They broke the record of the most goals scored in a year by a Spanish team with 167 goals. Real Madrid are first in La Liga, made it comfortably to the next round of the Copa Del Rey, and, after getting first place in the Champions League group, they are in the round of 16 against CSKA Moskva. Hopefully they'll be able to keep this going throughout the rest of the season.

Academy players that made their official debut with Mourinho:

Juan Carlos (Real Madrid 6-1 Deportivo)

Mateos (Ajax 0-4 Real Madrid)

Adan (Real Madrid 4-0 Auxerre)

Sarabia (Real Madrid 4-0 Auxerre)

Morata (Zaragoza 3-1 Real Madrid)

Alex Fernandez (Racing 1-3 Real Madrid)

Nacho Fernandez (Valencia 3-6 Real Madrid)

Tomas Mejias (Real Madrid 4-0 Getafe)

Jesus (Real Madrid 8-1 Almeria)

Joselu (Real Madrid 8-1 Almeria)

Mendes (Ajax 0-3 Real Madrid)

Jese (Ponferradina 0-2 Real Madrid)

Jorge Casado (Real Madrid 5-1 Ponferradina)

Pacheco (Real Madrid 5-1 Ponferradina)

Sevilla 2-6 Real Madrid

Last week, Barcelona beat Real Madrid 3-1 to be tied on points while Madrid had a game in hand. Everyone was hoping for this win so that Madrid can go 3 points ahead into the Christmas break. After that loss, not only did they have to win, they also had to win with style to prove their critics wrong. The man with all eyes on him was Cristiano Ronaldo.

After his very poor performance against the Catalans, Ronaldo knew he had something to prove. Jose Mourinho decided to start him in the midweek Copa Del Rey game against Ponferradina but, even though he scored a goal to make it 2-0, he was still not too impressive. The next game is where he had to shine. Sevilla.

The game started off great with Angel Di Maria assisting him to make it 1-0 after only 10 minutes into the game. Di Maria then had a great assist for youngster Jose Callejon who seemed more than delighted to make it 2-0 with a smart finish. Ronaldo then scored a great goal from way outside the box to make it 3-0 to the visitors!

Towards the end of the first half, things were slowly starting to get a little tricky as Pepe received his second yellow card and was taken off the pitch, which led to Mourinho making a quick defensive change as he took Callejon off and brought in Raul Albiol.

As the second half started, Di Maria showed that he wasn't done in the game as he took a great pass by Benzema and went to make a simple one-on-one finish to make it 4-0.

Sevilla had it all to do and they kept on trying as many of their shots during the game, which could have easily been goals, were somehow saved by Iker Casillas. In the 69th minute, Jesus Navas was able to reduce the difference to make it 4-1 and a small sense of hope started creeping up on them.

That "hope" didn't last for too long as Karim Benzema was tackled in the box to give the men in White a penalty, which Ronaldo scored to complete his hat-trick. Only four minutes later, Hamit Altintop was able to score his first goal for Real Madrid to make it 6-2 in the 89th minute.

Sevilla striker, Alvaro Negredo, scored in the 92nd minute after dribbling past Sergio Ramos and Casillas but that was only a consolation goal as a great game for Real Madrid ended 6-2.

Now, as the Spanish La Liga is off for 2 weeks, Real Madrid have one more game in midweek for the Copa Del Rey against Ponferradina in the Second Leg. The first leg ended 2-0 for Madrid with goals coming from Jose Callejon and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Best Real Madrid Player: Iker Casillas

Worst Real Madrid Player: Pepe

LA LIGA TOP 5:

1. Real Madrid - 40 Points

2. Barcelona - 37 Points

3. Valencia - 33 Points

4. Levante - 29 Points

5. Osasuna - 25 Points

UEFA Champions League Round Of 16

As the much awaited draw for the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 finally happened, many were very anxious to see what the games are for that round.

With teams like APOEL and FC Basel through to that round, while others such as Manchester United and Manchester City are out, here is the teams to play each other in the round of 16 which will be held during February and March.

Olympique Lyon VS APOEL FC

Napoli VS Chelsea

AC Milan VS Arsenal

FC Basel VS Bayern Munich

Bayer Leverkusen VS Barcelona

CSKA Moskva VS Real Madrid

Zenit St. Petersburg VS Benfica

Marseille VS Inter Milan

What are your predictions for the next round?

Real Madrid 1-3 Barcelona

Last night, the two giants of Spain (and arguably the world) met at the Santiago Bernabeu in what promised to be an exciting encounter. All the pre-match talk didn’t matter, there was nothing more of either team to do. All they can do now is go onto the pitch and win.

When looking at the past few games of the season, Real Madrid looked like they had the upper hand. Winning games with amazing scorelines, passing the ball perfectly whenever they got the chance to, and also making counter attacking look easy! But where was that last night?

Karim Benzema got Real Madrid to a great start after only 30 seconds as Victor Valdez’s pass was easily intercepted which led to the goal. The Men in White could have really not asked for a better start. And the game kept going as both teams were able to create chance after chance and Real Madrid looked like they had the upper hand overall. That is until Alexis Sanchez was able to get the equalizer in the 30^th minute and Barcelona were slowly starting to play their well-known possession football.

As the first half ended 1-1, anything was expected in the second half. From the start, Barcelona were the more ‘serious’ team and kept their chances coming as Madrid missed some sitters and their passing was awful. Xavi took a shot in the 52^nd minute which deflected off Marcelo to go into the goal and make it 2-1. As the game kept going, it was obvious that Barcelona were going to score a third one sooner or later and Cesc Fabregas was the man to do so as he crept pass Fabio Coentrao to score a header on the 66^th minute.

3-1 to the Catalans who, to be quite honest could have scored more. Jose Mourinho had to make three changes in the second half, which didn’t make any kind of difference in the game as he took off Mesut Ozil for Kaka, Lassana Diarra for Sami Khedira and Angel Di Maria for Gonzalo Higuain. This is a game to be forgotten but we still have a game-in-hand, and if we are able to win that, we’ll be first place and three points ahead of Barcelona.

In the end, Barcelona fully deserved the win and we just have to move on from here. Madrid need to keep their past form to have a chance of winning the league.

The game may be over but the Liga is still alive. Hala Madrid!

Worst Real Madrid Player: Cristiano Ronaldo

Best Real Madrid Player: Karim Bezema

Cristiano Ronaldo wasn’t even a shadow of himself. He seemed to be very lost on the pitch and really didn’t know what he was doing. His shots were mostly off target, his passes weren’t working out, and his dribbling pretty much never worked! In my opinion, he should not have played the full 90 minutes.

Real Madrid - Barcelona (Pre-Match)

This is it. The build-up to this game could not have gotten anymore exciting as the world now prepares for the biggest game in club football. The two giants of Spain will meet at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday night for a game that promises to be even more exciting than anyone can imagine. Real Madrid VS Barcelona. El Clasico.

Ever since Josep Guardiola has taken charge at Barcelona, he has made them a team that many have called the “Best Team in history” and who can argue with that? They have won everything that they possibly can and always seem hungry for more. Guardiola has taken Barcelona to a new level that all the teams wanted to be in but just simply weren’t able to

Since Guardiola was coach, Real Madrid had problems of their own. The main problem was finding the right coach. They went through many coaches such as Fabio Capello, Bernd Schuster, and Manuel Pellegrini but nothing really seemed to work until the “Special One” arrived.

Jose Mourinho arrived to Madrid in 2010 and has shown that he’s the right person to drive Real Madrid forward. During his first season, he won the Spanish Cup after defeating Barcelona 1-0 in the final with a great header by Cristiano Ronaldo. But it wasn’t all perfect. During the first meeting with the Catalans, many Madristas had a feeling that things were going to change and that the men in White would be able to finally beat Guardiola’s men. Instead, it ended with a shocking 5-0 win for Barcelona and a very lackluster performance from Real Madrid. No one knew what to expect after that…

Real Madrid and Barcelona met 5 times during that season. Two games in the league, two games in the Champions League Quarter Finals, and one in the Copa Del Rey Final. Real Madrid were only able to win one of the games while Barcelona won two.

Real Madrid VS Barcelona (2010-2011)

LA LIGA –

Barcelona 5 (Xavi, Pedro, David Villa [2], Jeffren) – Real Madrid 0

Real Madrid 1 (Cristiano Ronaldo) – Barcelona 1 (Leonel Messi)

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE –

Real Madrid 0 – Barcelona 2 (Leonel Messi [2])

Barcelona 1 (Pedro) – Real Madrid 1 (Marcelo)

COPA DEL REY –

Real Madrid 1 (Cristiano Ronaldo) – Barcelona 0

Judging by the scores, it doesn’t look too good for Los Meregues but some positives can be taken from it all. Putting aside the 5-0 loss, which was during the first few months that Mourinho was in charge, Real Madrid were slowly catching up with Barcelona. In my opinion, the Champions League games were supposed to be for Madrid but due to some unbelievable refereeing decisions, the game ended up going to the Catalans.

When looking back at all the games played against Barcelona during that season, it is very clear that refereeing has made a difference. Was it decisive? Pepe was having a great game before getting sent off for Dani Alves’ dive. Gonzalo Higuain scored an important goal, which was somehow a foul after Ronaldo fell in Mascherano’s way. Sergio Basquets and Pedro’s diving and name-calling went unseen as Barcelona went through another successful season. If all of the above (and more) were called fairly, would Real Madrid end up winning? We cant really say for sure but it seems very likely.

After that season, Real Madrid met with Barcelona yet again in a two-legged tie before the 2011-2012 season began. It was the Spanish Supercup, which Barcelona won in the last possible minute.

-Real Madrid 2 (Mesut Ozil, Xabi Alonso) – Barcelona 2 (David Villa, Leonel Messi)

-Barcelona 3 (Andres Iniesta, Leonel Messi [2]) – Real Madrid 2 (Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema)

Now, it’s time for the two to meet again and as Real Madrid are now three points ahead (with a game in hand), who know what to expect? It’s going to be a huge game for sure with a lot of controversy and even more excitement. Will Real Madrid be 6 points ahead after the game? Or will Barcelona keep up with Madrid as much as they possibly can?

Real Madrid VS Barcelona. Saturday 9:00 PM [GMT]

Ajax 0-3 Real Madrid

The last game of the Champions League Group Stages and Real Madrid did enough by winning all their past games to secure qualification as group leaders. With Jose Mourinho choosing to rest many key players such as Iker Casillas, Marcelo, Sergio Ramos, Pepe, Cristiano Ronaldo and Di Maria, Real Madrid walked onto the pitch with many players from the "second team"

With Antonio Adan in goal, Alvaro Arbeloa, Raphael Varane, Raul Albiol and Fabio Coentrao were in defense. Nuri Sahin, Esteban Granero, and Kaka were in midfield while putting Karim Benzema and Jose Callejon on the flanks. Gonzalo Higuain was leading the attack as the team captain.

Overall, the game was quite slow and at times a little boring but that is pretty much what someone would expect from Real Madrid in a game like this where many are thinking mostly about the coming game against Barcelona.

Jose Callejon was able to open the scoring on the 14th minute. Ajax scored two goals but both of them were ruled offside (more about that later though!). Towards the ending of the first half, Gonzalo Higuain finished off a great pass by Benzema to make it 2-0 for the visitors.

The second half calmed down a little more as Real Madrid played the game mostly in the middle of the pitch and not creating too many chances. During the second half we saw Hamit Altintop come in for Benzema, Pedro Mendes coming on for Arbeloa to make his debut with the first team, and Xabi Alonso came on for Esteban Granero.

Callejon kept proving himself worthy of playing more games as he scored on the 92nd minute to end the game 3-0.

As I mentioned earlier, Ajax scored twice in the first half and both goals were wrongly ruled offside. That didn't seem like too much of a big deal since they were pretty much guaranteed qualification as long as Lyon don't beat Dinamo Zaghreb by more than 5 goals and, at that time, Lyon were losing 1-0.

Everything changed in the second half as Ajax lost 3-0 and Lyon won 7-1 with Gomis scoring the fastest hat-trick in history; 7 minutes! That ended Ajax's run in the Champions League as they will now have to fight in the Europa League. Was it fixed? I guess we'll never know but it is seriously a ridiculous scoreline and, after watching the highlights of the Lyon game, many of the goals could have easily been avoided but Zaghreb seemed too lazy to even continue trying.

Other major shocks of the Champions League is the qualification of APOEL Nicosia as group leaders as they are now officially the first Cypriot team to ever qualify for the second round. Also, both Manchester teams were knocked out. Manchester United lost 2-1 against FC Basel to now book their place in the Europa League along with Manchester City who beat Bayern Munich 2-0 but it wasn't enough as Napoli also beat Villarreal 2-0 to secure qualification.

Best Real Madrid Player: Jose Callejon

Worst Real Madrid Player: ---

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE GROUP STAGES:

GROUP A:

Bayern Munich (Q) - 13 Points

Napoli (Q) - 11 Points

Manchester City - 10 Points

Villarreal - 0 points

GROUP B:

Inter Milan (Q) - 10 Points

CSKA Moskva (Q) - 8 Points

Trabzonspor - 7 Points

Lille - 6 Points

GROUP C:

Benfica (Q) - 12 Points

FC Basel (Q) - 11 Points

Manchester United - 9 Points

Otelul Galati - 0 Points

GROUP D:

Real Madrid (Q) - 18 Points

Lyon (Q) - 8 Points

Ajax Amsterdam - 8 Points

Dinamo Zaghreb - 0 Points

GROUP E:

Chelsea (Q) - 11 Points

Bayer Leverkusen (Q) - 10 Points

Valencia - 8 Points

Genk - 3 Points

GROUP F:

Arsenal (Q) - 11 Points

Olympique Marseille (Q) - 10 Points

Olympiacos - 9 Points

Borussia Dortmund - 4 Points

GROUP G:

APOEL Nicosia (Q) - 9 Points

Zenit St. Petersburg (Q) - 9 Points

Porto - 8 Points

Shakhtar Donetsk - 5 Points

GROUP H:

Barcelona (Q) - 16 Points

AC Milan (Q) - 9 Points

Viktoria Plzen - 5 Points

BATE Borisov - 2 Points