Spanish League 2010-2011 Summary

Here you will remember all the games played for Real Madrid during the 2010-2011 season of the Football Spanish League that ended with FC Barcelona as champions. The white team was runner-up.

SPANISH LEAGUE TABLE

Spanish League Table 2010-2011

Day 38: Real Madrid 8 - Almería 1

Day 37: Villarreal 1 - Real Madrid 3

Day 36: Real Madrid 4 - Getafe 0

Day 35: Sevilla 2 - Real Madrid 6

Day 34: Real Madrid 2 - Zaragoza 3

Day 33: Valencia 3 - Real Madrid 6

Day 32: Real Madrid 1 - Barcelona 1

Day 31: Bilbao 0 - Real Madrid 3

Day 30: Real Madrid 0 - Sp. Gijon 1

Day 29: Atletico 1 - Real Madrid 2

Day 28: Real Madrid 2 - Hercules 0

Day 27: Racing 1 - Real Madrid 3

Day 26: Real Madrid 7 - Malaga 0

Day 25: Deportivo 0 - Real Madrid 0

Day 24: Real Madrid 2 - Levante 0

Day 23: Espanyol 0 - Real Madrid 1

Day 22: Real Madrid 4 - Real Sociedad 1

Day 21: Osasuna 1 - Real Madrid 0

Day 20: Real Madrid 1 - Mallorca 0

Day 19: Almeria 1 - Real Madrid 1

Day 18: Real Madrid 4 - Villerreal 2

Day 17: Getafe 2- Real Madrid 3

Day 16: Real Madrid 1 - Sevilla 0

Day 15: Zaragoza 1 - Real Madrid 3

Day 14: Real Madrid 2 - Valencia 0

Day 13: Barcelona 5 - Real Madrid 0

Day 12: Real Madrid 5 - Bilbao 1

Day 11: Sp.Gijon 0 - Real Madrid 1

Day 10: Real Madrid 2 - Atletico 0

Day 9: Hercules 1 - Real Madrid 3

Day 8: Real Madrid 6 - Santander 1

Day 7: Malaga 1 - Real Madrid 4

Day 6: Real Madrid 6 - Deportivo 0

Day 5: Levante 0 - Real Madrid 0

Day 4: Real Madrid 3 - Espanyol 0

Day 3: Real Sociedad 1 - Real Madrid 2

Day 2: Real Madrid 1 - Osasuna 0

Day 1: Mallorca 0 - Real Madrid 0

Spanish League: Day 38

REAL MADRID 8 - ALMERIA 1

The Real Madrid fans could not imagine a happier ending. Cristiano Ronaldo got his fortieth goal, round and imposing figure, as well as the 102 goals scored by the team in the Spanish League. Benzema completed the best of his matches in white jersey and is very likely that the hat-trick from Adebayor will ensure his continuity in the club. Even was said goodbye to Dudek with military honors although he spent the war in reserve.

Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates his 40th goal

But let's say something more than a Cristiano. As it is told, Zarra was a player with a nose for goal. Hugo was instinct, as I saw it. Cristiano is the same essence, but in the body of a panther. Physical superiority is crucial to understand his game and to reason his goals. There are those who arrive earlier because they think before; Cristiano comes before because runs more and faster. And because he jumps more and in the air, is suspended, for a while. But his natural force does not explain everything. The world and football is full of meek ​​athletes and distracted talents. CR7 is set apart from the virtues, an obsessed. A kind of revenger of himself. Muhammad Ali became a boxer because someone, as a kid, stole him the bicycle. Then he spent his life punching the thief. For that, just that (a bicycle, a ball, an insult) has brought Cristiano here, 40 League goals and 53 in total this season. Only the goal 40 left him satisfied, slightly.

Right at the start Xabi Alonso curled in a free kick on 3’, Ramos headered the ball to Cristiano, and he easily beat Esteban. With the record in the bag, Real Madrid set their sights on the next target: 100 goals this season. With 15 minutes remaining in the first half, Ozil served a magical assist to Adebayor, who knocked in the second of the night. Almeria pushed forward and pulled one back two minutes later by way of Uche.

The Whites brought out the big guns after the restart. Benzema made it 3-1 on 48’ and four minutes later Adebayor sealed his brace. Almeria had no answer for the onslaught. Then on 62’. Benzema fired home the fifth of the night following a spectacular individual play.

But the best was yet to come. With almost 30 minutes left on the clock, the "Madridistas" surged forward. Adebayor wrapped up his hat-trick on 73’, which was also Real Madrid’s 100th of the season. Not even five minutes later, Cristiano grabbed a loose ball in the midfield, trotted towards Esteban and will a powerful strike beat the Almeria keeper.

Sitting on a 7-1 lead, Mourinho replaced Dudek with Jesus and Benzema with Joselu. And it was the Castilla forward who had the final say on 87’ following an assist by CR7. The 8-1 win was the perfect way to close out the 2010/11 season.

Summary

Stadium: Santiago Bernabeu
Attendance: 50,000
Goals: 1-0, m.3: Cristiano Ronaldo. 2-0, m.30: Adebayor. 2-1, m.32: Uche. 3-1, m.48: Benzema. 4-1, m.52: Adebayor. 5-1, m.62: Benzema. 6-1, m.73: Adebayor. 7-1, m.77: Cristiano Ronaldo. 8-1, m.87: Joselu.

Preview: Real Madrid vs Almeria

Real Madrid vs Almeria

Sitting level with Hugo Sanchez and Zarra as La Liga's single season top scorers of all time with 38 goals, Cristiano Ronaldo's last shot at rewriting history takes place today when Almeria visits the Bernabeu; a match that also brings down the curtain on the Whites' 2010/11 season.

Real Madrid bring the season to a close at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, where they host Almeria for an inconsequential match in terms of final standings. A lot is at stake on an individual level, however, as Cristiano Ronaldo is only one goal shy of breaking La Liga's single season scoring record.

Eighteen men including the academy's Jesus, Mandi and Joselu have been called up for the task. Canales and Pedro Leon will also suit up, while Lass, Khedira and Gago remain unavailable due to injury and Casillas, Adan, Marcelo, Higuain, Di Maria and Garay will sit out due to a coaching decision. With both goalkeepers off duty, Dudek will make his final start of his four-year stint at Real Madrid.

Almeria and Hercules have already ensured their relegation to Segunda Division with 90 minutes left in both their seasons. After four consecutive seasons in Spain's top flight, the Andalusian side bids farewell to La Liga at none other than Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.

"The way the team is currently playing favors Cristiano Ronaldo and his scoring ability," commented assistant coach Aitor Karanka during Friday's press conference, "That incentive is still there, and that is why we are motivated for this match." The players are sure to oblige by their coach's words, and so is Cristiano Ronaldo, who has history at the tips of his toes.

Notes:

Cristiano. Launched in a devastating final sprint, the figure of 40 goals, unthinkable before the start of the League, not only is within reach but seems easily overcome. We should memorize how he did it because in a few decades is possible that we may need to explain it to unbelievers.

Vertigo. To the fans at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, what they like most is that their team runs free, that the players seem to sharks in the festival of the sardine. This year it has been seen so rarely and almost all out of home. Valencia, Sevilla, Bilbao, Villarreal... are not easy fields and there they saw the most spectacular face of the team.

Playmakers. View the call of the Real Madrid, today we could enjoy a midfield full of playmakers. Xabi Alonso, Granero, Kaka and Özil would ensure the management of the match and the flow of play so that the personal account of Cristiano Ronaldo fires up to the unrepeatable. It would be fun.

Almería. Since its descent was consummated, its play has improved. The reaction is completely natural. Today thay want to reject the role of cake at a banquet that is prepared to Cristiano. Although Real Madrid has stumbled more with teams at the bottom of the table, does not appear that Almeria can escape unharmed.

Spanish League (Day 37): Karanka reactions

AITOR KARANKA: "WE ARE THE TOP SCORING TEAM IN THE LEAGUE"

Aitor Karanka after Villarreal match

"There were three points at stake for us that weren't really going to affect the standings, but there were other motivational factors for us in the game, such as Cristiano Ronaldo's chance to equal an historic record. The three goals we scored tonight make us the top scoring side in the championship. Small motivations allow the team to end the season in top form".

"We gave a very good performance in the first half, but we maybe lacked concentration after half-time given our 2-0 lead. Villarreal played their game. We showcased more quality in the first half and harder work in the second. For a moment, it looked we would draw 2-2, but we eventually won 3-1".

"Frankly, Villarreal have had a very good season. They've qualified for the Champions League thanks to their quality players. They made us suffer at the Bernabeu with their excellent football. They once again proved to be a great side tonight".

"Undiano Mallenco is a referee in the style of Mateu Lahoz. He is impartial and allows teams to play their game. These referees make for better matches because they allow both teams to play football".

"We still have to play one game on Wednesday to help those affected by the Lorca disaster. We are very excited to be able to help them. On Sunday we'll play our final game against Almeria".

Link

Spanish League: Day 37

VILLARREAL 1 - REAL MADRID 3

The incentives are a mysterious business in football, especially when there is no justification for competition. No one knows exactly what led to Real Madrid and Villarreal to engage in a fun and intense game at this point in the spring and nothing to be played in qualifying. Just know that as night fell the local team was activated and the visitor decreased. In the process, Cristiano kicked two fouls. One in every time. Two exhibitions of touch and accuracy. Two strokes to accompany the instep touch and hit the ball a violent effect. Two excuses to get two goals. With the second he added a figure that talks about his extraordinary ability to score: 38 goals in this League tying the Zarra and Hugo Sanchez's record.

Cristiano and Marcelo scored against Villarreal

Real Madrid started controlling the ball. Xabi, Granero and Kaka controlled the ball in midfield. They are people who help to receive the ball and know return it. Something that seems so simple and that is seen so rarely on this team. Absences of Khedira and Lass contributed to these earthly pleasures. Without his two defensive specialists, Mourinho applied his particular law of compensation: Granero ​played but was protected by a line of five defenders. The invention added people to the midfield, where Marcelo and Arbeloa went up to give the extent necessary to the maneuvers. Madrid squeezed Villarreal, which was lazy at each retreat. The domain, however, was not total.

Marco Ruben did not stop to annoy. He is one of those players excruciatingly competitive. Otherwise does not explain that Xabi Alonso was about to slap him. He did not. By then, Ruben was an hour harassing. In the first minutes of play, Marco Ruben caused an error of coordination between Casillas and Pepe before scoring a goal disallowed due to offside. Then he surprised Pepe on the edge of the area, stole the ball and went to the bottom line to center. Cani was preparing the foot when Pepe, back, cut off the pass. From the corner, Real Madrid made ​​the play of the first goal.

Villarreal threw the corner kick and did not realize the consequences. Its players were negligent and Kaka enabled to Marcelo, who ran 50 meters without having to worry about anything. He scored the opener from a great lobbed shot (16'). The Whites scored a second strike only five minutes later: Kaka was tackled outside the box, a free-kick was awarded, and Ronaldo converted it with a spectacularly powerful shot.

Things changed after half-time. Villarreal stepped up their game and kept possession of the ball for longer periods of time. This resulted in their only goal of the evening, scored by Cani following a great combination between Rossi and Bruno (51'). The match became intense, but Real Madrid looked to hurt their hosts with quick counterattacks, while Villarreal in turn tried to net an equaliser through efforts from Cani and Rossi. However, Ramos, Pepe and Carvalho were solid in defence and put an end to all of the locals' chances.

There was still time for Cristiano Ronaldo to score yet another strike from another set piece. It came on the 92nd minute and allowed him to equal Hugo Sanchez and Zarra's historic record.

Summary

Stadium: El Madrigal
Attendance: 22,000
Goals: 0-1, M. 16 Marcelo. 0-2, M. 21 Cristiano. 1-2, M. 51 Cani. 1-3, M. 92 Cristiano.

Preview: Villarreal vs Real Madrid

Villarreal vs Real Madrid

This afternoon at the El Madrigal stadium, Villarreal says goodbye to its fans for this season, a year in which if the trajectory of the team in the League championship had to be defined with one word, this would be "regular". From the fourth day, when team defeated Deportivo (1-0), the yellow set lasted for four days in the second position of the table, in 16 days in the third set, and in 13 days in the fourth that currently occupies.

They are facts ​​to celebrate, to play a game without pressure, to enjoy ... Although mathematically with two games to play has options to reach the third place occupied by Valencia with 67 points, a place that gives direct access to the next UEFA Champions League 2011-12. Villarreal has already secured fourth place with 62 points what allows them to dispute the preview of the Champions League. But the "Yellow Submarine" will want more, especially if they play against Real Madrid.

Or they play against Cristiano? Cristiano Ronaldo's treble against Getafe was his fourth hat-trick of the season and his fifth since joining Real Madrid. The forward, who also has seven braces to his name this year, has 13 multi-goal performances in the 26 matches he has scored in. What's more, he is the first player in the history of La Liga to score three or more goals six times in one season. Romario and Langara shared the record of five.

Ronaldo has played in 52 matches this year (32 in "La Liga", 12 in UCL and 8 in Spanish Cup) and scored in 26 of them, for an average of one goal every two matches. But CR7 doesn't settle once he has found the back of the net. Quite the opposite in fact. Thirteen of the 26 matches he has scored in have been multi-goal performances.

The Madridista forward is sitting on 49 goals this season and 82 since arriving in the Spanish capital in the summer of 2009. Twenty-two times over the last two seasons, Cristiano Ronaldo has scored more than one goal in a match (15 braces, 5 hat-tricks and two four-plus goal performances). He has scored in an astounding 49 of the 87 matches (56.3%) played for Real Madrid.

With 235 total goals as a professional footballer, Ronaldo is on the verge of earning his second Golden Boot, his first Pichichi trophy (top scorer in La Liga) and equalling or breaking the 38-goal record for goals in a season set by Zarra and Hugo Sanchez.

Villarreal definitely plays against Ronaldo. In the first round, in the Week 18 on the match played at the Santiago Bernabeu, Real Madrid beat Villarreal 4-2 with three goals from Cristiano. Perhaps a good sign for Real Madrid... and Cristiano.

Spanish League (Day 36): Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo's hat-trick against Getafe increases his goal cout in "La Liga" this season to 36, just two shy of Hugo Sanchez's record. The Portuguese player, who gave his shirt to a fan he accidentally hit with the ball from a clearance, expressed his satisfaction with his performance tonight.

Cristiano Ronaldo was very happy after the game

"We are playing at a very high level. It is our priority to win our remaining league games and that's just what we're doing. The coach has asked us to keep up the good work and we've responded well".

"I'm fighting to tally an important number of goals, but I'm not obsessed about it. It's true my teammates have looked for me at times in particular so that I would score more, but collective efforts are always more important than individual exploits".

Aitor Karanka, also talked about Cristiano Ronaldo and team involvement to help in yourpersonal goal: "Ronaldo's numbers are truly impressive, and his quality allows him to do this and much more. It is also the product of the work done by the entire team, which also has impressive collective numbers this season".

"There's always some motivational factor, and the greatest of all is to play for Real Madrid. Let's not obssess about it, but some players have looked to assist Cristiano tonight, but I insist: there is no greater motivation than to wear this shirt. What is paramount on this squad is comradeship and to have a good atmosphere, so it's even better for us if we're able to help a teammate achieve a personal goal".

Spanish League: Day 36

REAL MADRID 4 - GETAFE 0

Cristiano, Cristiano and Cristiano. So up to 36 times in League and 49 in the total of the season. Like a hammer. Or better yet, like a magician. Because there is no greater gimmick than make this seem easy. And it is not, Getafe can talk about. Real Madrid struck blue team without making a foreshortened, quite naturally.

Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 36 goals in the League

It's strange what happens to Getafe. Team does not move the ball badly and so was handled yesterday. However, it was impossible to imagine how could score a goal. It was so uneven the Colunga's fight with Pepe and Carvalho, that his feat was not to score, but keep walking in there without being eaten. You could say that Colunga, who is a good player, lacked a big brother who discussed with the central defenders.

Real Madrid was not out of the script of the matches in its field: order, strict defensive application and more isolated genius than collective brilliance. Without the possibility of launching the counterattack (the house specialty), the team displays a rudimentary football only changed by the occurrences of Marcelo, Özil or Cristiano, also Di Maria. With them there is no plan that the insistence. They are good and get enough balls. They will think something. And they usually do.

So the match went when Cristiano Ronaldo put Getafe’s goal in the center of his crosshairs. Following an extraordinary pass by Özil on 24’, Ronaldo out-jumped Cata Diaz and connected with a perfect header to send the ball into the back of the net. Looking at those goals, the repair of Cristiano to be recognized as a "nine" is not understood. His mastery of the air-game is a more effective weapon than his distant shots, often forced. His instincts and quickness make him a prodigious striker. His mobility allows another striker who should only accept his role. One final note: when he plays as striker, Cristiano does not own the ball.

It was a heavy blow for Getafe, who were unable to advance towards Adan; by far one of the easiest matches of his career as the Azulones ended the first half with zero shots on goal. The visitors pushed their lines forward after the restart, but to little avail. Real Madrid, meanwhile, sought a strike that would all but seal the win. Then on 58’, Higuain beat Ustari to a ball and the deflection landed at the feet of Ozil, The midfielder passed to Cristiano, who dribbled by Cata Diaz and easily scored the tap-in. The strike sunk Getafe, but only made Madrid hungrier.

Adebayor and Benzema came off the bench on 75’ and the Frenchman needed all but a minute to make it 3-0 in a brilliant show of ball control. Castilla goalkeeper Tomas Mejias then made his first team debut by stepping in for Adan with six minutes left to play.

All that was missing was the icing on the cake. And it came on 91’ when Mane tackled Ronaldo inside the box. CR7 wanted his hat-trick and had little trouble beating Ustari to close out the 4-0 win. That makes 36 goals for Ronaldo, who is the frontrunner for top scorer in La Liga as well as the Golden Boot.

Summary

Stadium: Santiago Bernabeu

Attendance: 55,000
Goals: 1-0, m.24: Cristiano. 2-0, m.58: Cristiano. 3-0, m.75: Benzema. 4-0, m.91: Cristiano (penalty).

Aitor Karanka: "Nuri Sahin is a great signing"

Aitor Karanka

Assistant coach Aitor Karanka addressed the media before the final session prior to today's match against Getafe. He talked about the game and commented the new of the day; the signing of Nuri Sahin: "We believe Sahin's arrival is positive. The club continues to work on next season and, truth be told, Sahin's had an excellent campaign. We're happy because we expect much from him". 

"We are on the same path as we were last year, signing young players who have made a solid impression in important leagues. It happened last year with Ozil, Khedira and Di Maria, amongst others. We'll have to be patient with Sahin because he is 23 years old and this is Real Madrid. He will have to adapt to the team".

"It would be good both for Cristiano and the whole team if he wins the Pichichi Trophy. Obviously, the most important thing is the team as a whole and for us to play the best way possible, as we did against Sevilla and Valencia. That's the road to follow. Cristiano's goals are the end result of the work of the entire team. There have been games in which we've netted many strikes thanks to our collective efforts".

"You have to respect opponents who still risk much at this stage in the campaign".

"Our numbers are there. We had showers of goals in many games at the Bernabeu during the first half of the season. We are now comfortably winning complicated games. This is our first year and we just want to continue with our work".

Link

Preview: Real Madrid vs Getafe

Real Madrid vs Getafe

Cristiano's ambition, the Barcelona's championship and the affection to Getafe. Those are the three forces that pull the match tonight. The first two coincide: only a win will prevent the championship of Barcelona and win with goals from Cristiano, encourages the last battle he can win with the Real Madrid this season: the top scorer trophy (Pichichi) and the Golden Boot.

With this interest is drawn the game, connected with the honor, in the case of Madrid, and associated with survival, if we talk about Getafe. Because the situation of the southern neighbor is extremely delicate: a point above the relegation zone and nine teams fighting for salvation.

Although the outlook is not good to give away points, three Getafe players forced the yellow card (and the one-match suspension) in the last game (Marcano, Pedro Rios and Victor Sanchez) with the intention, it is assumed, to concentrate troops against Osasuna in the penultimate day. Watching it, was understood that Michel did not mind losing the match at the Bernabeu, but it can not be. Neither the schedule nor the classification allow such luxuries. Getafe can only attempt the feat that Sporting and Zaragoza achieved. The idea of the visitor must be to use the lack of tension of Madrid template and its problems against teams that do not favor its counterattacks. Or put another way: bore, first and beat white team later.

Michel's allusion to the love of Real Madrid fans to Getafe, and by direct connection to him, is a business address (not without truth) that plans to extend the match into a sentimental scene. He is a glory of Real Madrid and, if that reason is not enough, in other places these matches are solved with neighborhood or regional agreements.

But Cristiano is not flowing through these roads. Neither the championship. And who scored four goals against Sevilla, wishes to extend his two goals ahead of Messi (33 against 31), to establish himself as the Golden Boot (66 points against 62), match Puskas (47 goals in one season), pass him, approach Zarra and Hugo Sánchez in the League (38) and claim himself, as the best player in the world, which people discuss, but the numbers do not deny.

While the starting lineup of Getafe displays all the available talent (Parejo included), the call of Real Madrid concentrated its surprises in the goalkeepers: Casillas and Dudek were left out. The rotation is curious and leaves Adam as starter, covered by Tomas Mejías. Anyone who wants to understand as an aid to Getafe, has the right, but we will not know because Mourinho does not speak and Karanka did not tell.

Neither will be in the team Kaka, injured with a strain on the muscles of his nostalgia. A pity; with so much disruption there is no way to defend him. Özil will play in his place, with Cristiano and Benzema or Higuain. Too much dynamite to imagine kindness.

League (Day 35): Cristiano Ronaldo reactions

CRISTIANO RONALDO: " WE PLAYED EXTREMELY WELL"

Cristiano Ronaldo

Real Madrid striker, Cristiano Ronaldo, was delighted after scoring 4 goals in his team'svictory against Sevilla: "We earned an excellent result after losing the Champions League semifinal, and that isn't easy to do. This is a tough place to play in and Sevilla are no pushover. We need to stay on track and win the three matches that we have left". "It's always important to score, the later Barcelona wins the League the best. But we have to win every game without thinking about Barcelona​,​" said Cristiano.

The striker, however, recognizes that it is a little frustrating to play these games knowing that winning the Spanish League is almost impossible: "We feel a little disappointed but that's football and we will try to win the next matches".

About the team's play against Sevilla said: "Great, We played extremely well tonight and scored 6 goals, which is not easy. We have three matches left and we need to play like we did tonight. We played well, and not just because we changed tactics. We were very motivated. The coach has given a positive mindset to start well next season ".

In addition, he thanked his teammates for helping him score goals: "Score four goals is not easy but I have to give merit to my teammates because they helped me. I do not want to think about the top scorer becuase there are three games reamaining".

Spanish League: Day 35

SEVILLA 2 - REAL MADRID 6

Real Madrid crushed Sevilla in the first 45 minutes. In the 45 minutes remaining, machinery was made ​​available to Cristiano Ronaldo, who took Özil's passes, Benzema's assists and emergencies of the Andalusian team to add 33 goals in "La Liga". The Portuguese overtaked Messi in the race for the most precious spoils of the championship: the top scorer trophy ("Pichichi").

Cristiano Ronaldo scored four goals against Sevilla

It has been much speculation about the style of Real Madrid this season, even within the club. It has said it is a counterpunch team by nature, that the white team can only exploit its strengths in fast transitions... These theories were questioned in front of a defensive Sevilla that forced Madrid to take the lead, this role that, in theory, causes many inconveniences to the Mourinho's team. Sevilla tried to put the obstacles that have generated so much trouble to Madrid in this championship but were shot down. Each advance of Madrid was rapid and decisive. As an outrage. From the start of the game, along the first part, there was no respite for the Sevilla defense. The aggressiveness of Chile player, Gary Medel, was the only stumbling block of consideration that stood between Varas (Sevilla goalkeeper) and the Real Madrid strikers.

Well guided by Xabi Alonso from the start, the plays ranged from right to left with speed and accuracy. Özil expanded the field from the right, Kaka gave the last pass, Benzema dragged defenders to distract, Marcelo appeared from the left and Cristiano went where envisioned spaces to run. The raids were unpredictable and fast, and forced to retreat to Seville on its area, on the net, where Varas was surrounded by his defense, choked, unable to calm his people. Navarro's injury deepened crisis. The side defender was replaced by Dabo.

Sevilla's inability to find a solution to its plight, speaks of a team with unsuspected limitations a couple of years ago. The injuries of Navas, Rakitic and Perotti, and the absence of Renato in the beginning, emphasized the weakness of a team that until recently aspired to compete for the title. Yesterday did not have anyone who ordered the play. The team did not find alternatives and launched "melons" to Kanoute who did what he could, throwing balls to Negredo. But Pepe and Ramos were unbeatable.

So donning its all black visitor's kit, Real Madrid had three scoring opportunities in the first twelve minutes of the match. It was just a matter of time before they would break the deadlock. Then on 20', Ozil swung in a corner kick and Sergio Ramos beat out Cristiano in getting a head to the ball and beating the keeper. Ronaldo sent a ball off the post two minutes later, but he didn't take long in getting his name on the scoresheet. Marcelo received the ball at the top of the box on 30' and curled it to Pepe at the opposite side. The Portuguese out-jumped the defender and headered it to Cristiano, who controlled and fired into the back of the net.

But the goal of the night came off the boots of Kaka. The Brazilian found Özil charging into the left side of the box, the German tapped the ball right back and Kaka curled a low shot past the left side of the keeper for his seventh of the season.

Sevilla pressured after the restart and were hansomely rewarded. The hosts pulled one back on 61’ when Negredo got the best of Casillas following a pass by Romaric. But Real Madrid answered back four minutes later. Negredo passed to a defender at the top of the penalty area, Cristiano Ronaldo pick pocketed the ball following a miscue by the Sevillista and put the ball into the back of the potato sack. Cristiano wrapped up his hat-trick only five minutes later. The forward beat the offside trap at the midfield line, galloped towards the goal with no defender in sight and punched the ball under Javi Varas.

Just when you thought Real would take their foot off the gas, Özil sent a deep ball into Sevilla territory and Benzema chased it down just before it crossed the byline. The striker curled a low pass into the middle of the box and Cristiano met it cleanly for the team’s sixth of the night. The same can be said for Sevilla, who instead of throwing in the towel continued to attack the Madridista goal. With little over six minutes left to play, Negredo successfully got his head to a corner kick to make it 2-6. The score does justice to the football displayed at the Sanchez Pizjuan and the stellar performance of Cristiano Ronaldo.

Summary

Stadium: Sánchez Pizjuán
Attendance: 40,000
Goals: 0-1, M.21: Sergio Ramos. 0-2, M.31: Cristiano Ronaldo. 0-3, M.42: Kaká. 1-3, M.60: Negredo. 1-4, M.65: Cristiano Ronaldo. 1-5, M.69: Cristiano Ronaldo. 1-6, M.75: Cristiano Ronaldo. 2-6, M.83: Negredo.

Preview: Sevilla vs Real Madrid (League)

Sevilla vs Real Madrid

What otherwise would have been a football match announced with great fanfare, now being presented as a meeting confused between the noise of the Classic, the sanctions from UEFA and the April Fair of Seville. General distraction is also explained becuase today two deeply disappointed teams will face: the one has lost Champions title options and the other for not being able to qualify for that tournament (Sevilla is fifth, eight points behind Villarreal).

However, despite the nostalgia, the game is important. If Rea Madrid can not win today (10:00 pm), tomorrow would be enough to Barcelona a win against Espanyol (7:00 pm) to be crowned League champions. If Sevilla does not win, will not undertake its qualification for the next European League, for which Espanyol is also fighting (four points behind Sevilla). All this without mentioning the rivalry between both teams, much hotter when have to play in the Pizjuán Stadium.

Sevilla ailments are known. In the last game Rakitic was injured (fracture of fifth metatarsal of a foot) as Cáceres (crack in a rib). Navas is also unable to play. Kanoute and Perotti are trailing different physical discomfort, although they may be in the starting lineup. The Argentine will be checked today with a definitive test, with Romaric waiting for events.

With regard to the Champions League match, Real Madrid recovers Sergio Ramos and Pepe, but loses Carvalho (send-off against Zaragoza) and Di Maria (accumulation of yellow cards). Mourinho will combine starters and alternates. If Pepe returns to the midfield, Garay will be central defender with Ramos. It seems like Lass will play in the midfield and on the attack zone, the question focuses on the playmaker place, where Kaka and Özil are disputing the position. Higuain and Benzema are not questioned, nor Cristiano.

No team has left the Sanchez Pizjuan with three points in tow over the last seven weeks of La Liga. Only Barcelona and Malaga managed draws, while Levante, Hercules, Sporting, Zaragoza and Villarreal have all returned home defeated. But, the closest antecedents are favorable to Madrid. Sevilla has lost all three games it has played this season against the whites without scoring a single goal. The League match also had controversial. Despite the win (1-0, Di María), Mourinho showed a list of the thirteen mistakes made ​​by the referee (Clos Gómez). That day the coach demanded more support from the club in his crusade. He succeeded.

League (Day 34): Casillas reactions

CASILLAS: "EVERYTHING IS POSSIBLE IN FOOTBALL"

Casillas talking with the media

How does it feel to lose in this way?

It is an unexpected defeat that makes virtually say goodbye to what was a possible miracle in the League. We never gave up. We always believed we could win. Something unfortunate happened whenever we came close to drawing the match: there was a possible penalty on Kaka, Benzema hit the crossbar... They killed us with their third goal, but we kept trying. It just didn't happen for us.

Has affected the defeat against Barcelona?
It's possible that everything that's happened in the last few days was on our minds, but that's no excuse. Zaragoza gave a good performance and capitalised on our mistakes.

Have you gone to the field distracted?
No. Until my mistake there was no problems. We were playing more conservatively and had no clear chances. In the second part, we searched for the draw but there was another unfortunate with the penalty action.

What happened in your mistake of the first Zaragoza goal?
It was bad luck. I'm somewhat angry because the team didn't earn a better result due to a mistake I made, but we're all human and we all make mistakes.

How do you approach the game at the Camp Nou?
We will intend to win in Barcelona; we know we have the disadvantage, but everything is possible in football.

Spanish League: Day 34

REAL MADRID 2 - ZARAGOZA 3

Spring in Madrid is generally unpleasant. Yesterday there was storm. Between the rain and disappointment, the public turned away from the Bernabeu Stadium. Empty seats reflected the feeling that the season runs without producing the expected results. The malaise spread to the stands and the field, where the team emerged with a touch of melancholy after the captains, Casillas and Ramos, presented the Spanish Cup trophy with a poker face. There were no smiles. Only two thoughtful guys, anticipation of the visit to the Nou Camp next Tuesday, the day all may end with a bang if Madrid does not back the 0-2 in the semifinal round of the Champions League.

Real Madrid went out to play, overloaded with dark ideas, a League in which there is not much to say. This less level of stress exposed white team against Zaragoza, which came to defend its stay in first division with the effort of a team that is playing its salary. As often happens in these cases, won the most needy. If Madrid loses on Saturday at the Sanchez Pizjuan (10:00 pm) the championship could be arithmetically for Barcelona, which host Espanyol on Sunday (7:00 pm).

Madrid found from the beginning a problem that has presented throughout the season. Team had the ball but did not know how to play with it. Until Sergio Ramos scored with a header past the hour mark, the team never once shot into the net. By then, the shame of being overcome. Zaragoza had moved the scoreboard twice, defending with energy and deployed with speed and simplicity. Recovered the ball, Gabi and Jorge Lopez changed the direction of the play, and Uche with Lafita attacked the spaces. More vulnerable than usual due to his midfield, Carvalho suffered a torture to protect the prairie.

Casillas: Upset after Zaragoza's first goal

Zaragoza was presented with the lesson learned. In Spain, the basic antidote against the Madrid Plan is written in the book of all the coaches of first division: Levante, Osasuna, Deportivo and Sporting, among others. Zaragoza did the same. Ceded the field and barricaded itself in the vicinity of its area. They planted a five-defense. Was protected in the middle with Ponzio and closed the sides with two men to prevent Higuain and Kaka found space outside, as they did at the Mestalla last week. Forced to take the initiative, Real Madrid was not comfortable. White team works like a clock whenis attacked, but when give the ball has not acquired the mechanisms to develop an effective static attack.

At the apex of every play Pepe was acting as the only midfielder. His presence at this position did not help clarify the picture. Pepe's inability to organize the team, directed to defensive mismatches. The man is going through two grueling weeks. He was never a pass player and the day has not a full tank, suffers because he can not dispense efforts. In addition Granero and Canales, very intermittent, did not help either.

Thus, on the 40-minute mark, Jorge López led the move for the first goal with a long pass that bounced on the edge of the area. The central defenders were misplaced and Casillas came out to kick but the ball should bounce wrong. The rain has these things. Uche took advantage of the decline and passed to Lafita who scored quietly.

The second half was decidedly different. Real Madrid pressurised much more in attack, stealing the ball in Zaragoza's half of the pitch. But the visitors managed to score again from a fast counterattack that ended in a penalty awarded to Lafita and converted by Gabi (53'). Mourinho brought Marcelo and Ozil on, the latter serving a corner kick on the 61-minute mark finished off perfectly by Ramos. With half an hour left on the clock, the Bernabeu started to roar in support of its team.

Real Madrid besieged its opponent when Uche connected with Lafita, who was alone with Casillas before scoring the 1-3. Benzema, remarkable game, responded after a pass of Higuain. It was 2-3. Madrid's reaction was superb but lacked something that had throughout the season: a great defense. Carvalho brought down Uche and was send-off. A penalty on Kaka, that the referee did not whistle, and a shot to the crosshead of Benzema, unstoppable in the final minutes, tested the nerves of Zaragoza which ended the game in its area. Physically exhausted, but settled in first division.

Summary

Stadium: Santiago Bernabeu
Attendance: 67,000
Goals: 0-1, m.41: Lafita. 0-2, m.54: Gabi (penalty) 1-2, m.63: Sergio Ramos. 1-3, m.78: Lafita. 2-3, m.85: Benzema.

Mourinho punishes Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo was not called to the squad for this evening's game against Zaragoza. An important decision and surprising at the same time, because it is the second time all season that the Portuguese is not called by technical decision. The first and last until yesterday was the last December, in the insignificant match (Spanish Cup) against Levante, after the first leg 8-0 at the Bernabeu.

Cristiano will be today in his private box at the Bernabeu Stadium, as punishment. Mourinho did not call him yesterday to give him a warning for his comments after the 0-2 last Wednesday in which he indirectly criticized the technical approach: "I like to play well, but I have to adapt myself to what they ask me...".

Mourinho decided to show the yellow card to his star. It is no rest. Setúbal coach has said repeatedly, most recently on February 19 during the preview against Levante, that Cristiano never rests unless it was requested by the star player: "He likes to play, no need to rest and why to change?" was what Mourinho said. But Mou, without explanation, has fueled the suspicion that the absence is a warning according to Cristiano statements after the game against Barcelona, considering the effort that Mourinho has always made in order that CR7 could play resolved or irrelevant games: the second half in San Mames (0-3), Valencia (3-6) or even at White Hart Lane after the 4-0 first-leg are the latest examples.

Cristiano Ronaldo will not play against Zaragoza

Mourinho did not like either Cristiano's angry gestures on Wednesday, complaining with his hands up to his teammates for not helping in the pressure up. Paradoxically, the television cameras caught the coach, reproaching him at the Cup final in Mestalla by keeping protesting a foul instead of trying to steal a ball.

But we know that Ronaldo thinks there is no irrelevant matches. His ambition knows no bounds and with the League lost, left his fight for the top scorer against Messi. The Argentine, to the chagrin of Real Madrid player, can increase the distance today. Messi adds 31 goals by Cristiano's 30 and after this weekend there will be only four days of League ...

Preview: Real Madrid vs Zaragoza

Real Madrid vs Zaragoza

After a day of rest, after the third of the Classics, semifinal round of the Champions League in which Real Madrid was defeated at the Bernabeu Stadium by 0-2, the white template has become to work today to prepare the league match in which, team will play against Zaragoza on Saturday, 6 pm. In a session that started with almost twenty minutes late, Wednesday starters made ​​recovery work apart from the rest of the group. Mourinho had 24 players, including homegrown players Juanfran and Nacho Fernández. Just missed the injured Khedira and Gago, the rest exercised normally in the Sports City of Valdebebas.

Real Madrid coach, Jose Mourinho, has decided to leave out the call for technical decision; Cristiano Ronaldo, Lass, Xabi Alonso, Albiol and Pedro León. In addition, Gago and Khedira will lose the match due to injury. Accordingly, it is probably that Mourinho plays the game against Zaragoza with a team very similar to that used in Valencia. The defense would consist by Arbeloa (a physical portent), Ramos, Garay and Nacho Fernandez, who would play again to rest Marcelo. In the middle of the field would stand Pepe (suspended for the Champions League match as Ramos He needs no break), with Granero and Canales. And up front, the magical trio ofMestalla, Kaka, Benzema and Higuain.

Real Madrid training

Maybe the Portuguese does any test to the important match against Barcelona, but at press conference, where he spoke indirectly about the controversy of the last European match, has indicated the opposite: "I only think about the approach of tomorrow's match and the team is to try to win against Zaragoza, and will not be a test to Barcelona. Xabi Alonso and Lass will not play because they are "dead". They played alone, 11 against 10, too much time. We need to give them conditions to recover and return in good condition. About Albiol, he does not have to play when Pepe and Sergio Ramos are suspended for Barcelona by these criminal acts they have done. But everyone else will play just thinking about Zaragoza, because we want to play seriously as against all teams. Zaragoza is risking its life and we must do the same, because we have to dedicate the "Copa del Rey" to the fans.The absence of Cristiano is my business, we have Benzema, Kaka, Higuain, Di Maria ..."

But not only the physical aspect is important. After a tough loss, the mental aspect can influence the development of the game against a team like Zaragoza that is fighting to stay alive in the first division. About that, Mourinho says: "We are fine in every way and the season does not end until late May. I'm not sure of the date, but just then we have a couple of friendlies, and when Real Madrid plays, even a friendly, we are not on vacation".

In Zaragoza, coach Javier Aguirre locked himself yesterday at the Sports City in search of the formula that could harm Real Madrid, but that formula is not defined yet. Firstly because Bertolo and Boutahar, starters on Monday against Almeria, did not work on the same pace as the rest of their teammates and, secondly, because the Mexican coach has hidden his cards and tactical plan, waiting for news. In addition, Ander, guide of this squad, is unavailable due to suspension.

It seems more likely that tomorrow at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, Aragonese team will be formed with a crowded defense, hoping to have some competitive advantage in attack throughout the ninety minutes. Neither the coach nor the players are wary of the 'substitutes' of Madrid and are not funny having to fight against a hurt rival after the defeat in the Champions League.

League (Day 33): Kaka reactions

KAKA: "WE WILL KEEP FIGHTING"

Kaka celebrating his two goals against Valencia

Congratulations. You played a great match at Mestalla Stadium. Two goals and two assists. Have you thought about your family?

Yes, the goals are dedicated to my daughter who is about to be born. This will happen today or tomorrow. I needed to play a match like this. It has been good for my self-confidence.

Real Madrid has made a great performance against Valencia. What is the key to the team has played so effectively against the third team ranked in the League?
A team that plays a game like this after the wear of the Spanish Cup final, proves too much. I have to thank my teammates because they have supported me. We are a fantastic group. We played well in the first half and were able to take care of business. We maintained the rhythm in the second, but Valencia took more risks and we ended 3-6. It was a great match for me and for Real Madrid".

What Mourinho said to you after the game?
Nothing special. I needed an opportunity like this and play well with Real Madrid for my personal confidence.

See yourself playing in the upcoming match against Barca?
The important thing is to enjoy this match. Mourinho has told us that from Monday start thinking of the Champions League. So I say the same thing. On Monday we will begin to think about Barcelona.

Is there a chance of winning the League?
We have to wait for the defeats of Barcelona. We will keep fighting.

League (Day 33): Mourinho reactions

MOURINHO: " THE SECOND SEASON SHOULD BE BETTER THAN THE FIRST"

Jose Mourinho. Valencia Press Conference

Jose Mourinho spoke to the press shortly after Real Madrid’s shellacking of Valencia and expressed his satisfaction with the victory.

"Some people may lose focus after unforgettable matches, but that wasn’t the case today. We took this match very seriously, but the three points are all that matter so that we can continue fighting as long as we are mathematically still alive".

"A few weeks ago we lost to Sporting, but overall we feel good. What I say about Kaka applies to the whole team. If we can finish the season well and with the feeling that we can beat any team, we will be extremely confident heading into next season. If Barcelona win the League, it will be by of the points they have earned, not by the ones we have lost".

"Kaka played a great match in a position that I like a lot. It’s a position that he is used to. We need him and he needed the confidence that he gained from this match. People can see just how talented he is during the home stretch of this season and he will start next season off in completely different fashion. I am very happy for him. And his daughter is due to be born in a few days".

The coach did not talk about Wednesday's Champions League match, third in the series of duels against Barcelona: "We will be at Valdebebas tomorrow, but not to train or think about football. We will begin preparing for the Champions League on Monday. On Sunday I spend with my family. Football is over for me this weekend".

And he insisted on a better future: "The second season should be better than the first. There must show what the coach and the team have learned, with two or three changes in the summer. I hope so. But we have won a title, we are in semifinals of theChampions League and fighting in the League".

He also praised Nacho Fernández: "Nacho debuted with the first team today in what was a difficult match, and he looked like a war veteran. That is what I want from young players who are prepared, especially from a psychological standpoint. Hats off to him as well as all his teammates".

Spanish League: Day 33

VALENCIA 3 - REAL MADRID 6

Something has Mestalla stadium and Real Madrid has a lot. Three days after the Cup final, the champion returned to the Stadium of its success, via tribute hall, to complete another show, but completely different in style and modes. The team was relaxed instead of anxious, A team concerned with attacking football and unaffected by the result, in the best sense ofthe term. So play version B of Madrid, as Valencia could see itself. Valencia maybe studied the wrong videos, the last two.

Valencia vs Real Madrid

And Real Madrid, as its coach, has two sides, although they could be more. The first introduces us to a team that is enlarged in the effort and solidarity, defined by direct football and Cristiano Ronaldo. You know, the Spanish Cup Champion. The second is constructed in the absence of Cristiano. Without him, the attack movements become more combined due to the simple reason that his peers play more balls.

This happened yesterday. After two Spartans games, Real Madrid was presented at Mestalla stadium with only two regular starters in the starting lineup: Casillas and Carvalho (Understand regular starters as the heroes of the Cup). With the rest of the squad available, Mourinho fielded, in accordance or resigned, a team with more talent than work, which brought in the midfield and ahead; Granero, Canales, Kaka, Benzema and Higuain. Peculiar concentration of "gamers", midfielders, strikers and other people of good living.

The result was optimal. If anything characterized the team was its ability to connect and have fun. For 65 minutes, Real Madrid got the feeling of enjoying the game and the proof is that white team (black yesterday) scored six goals and solved with astonishing ease a match where everything seemed against.

Such was the complicity among the three strikers of Real Madrid that they handed out the medals and diplomas: Higuain scored three goals and added two assists, Kaka scored two goals and assisted on two others and Benzema, who got a goal, participated in all dangerous actions, including a shot against the bar that almost breaks it.

There were goals from all kinds. Naughty goals, gifted goals, goals touched up the goal line and an exquisite goal, the second of Kaka after dribble Stankevicius and shoot with effect to the far post. And it all happened in the first 65 minutes, and Valencia, surpassed (Banega, Maduro and Topal remain unlocatable) opposed a Soldado's goal after good play of Jonas.

However, coinciding with the arrival of Cristiano replacing Higuain, Real Madrid missed the match and became obsessed with the seventh goal. The result was immediate: Valencia scored twice. Jonas and Jordi Alba took advantage of Mata's passes to honor the scoreboard, even tighter (but undeniable) if the referee had blown for a penalty on Soldado or if Jonas had not met with Casillas.

Higuain came back with Kaka revived and Benzema inspired. No one expects Real Madrid will repeat this team against Barcelona. Satisfied, had completed a crazy week and passionate at Mestalla.

Summary

Stadium: Mestalla
Attendance: 50,000
Goals: 0-1, m.23: Benzema. 0-2, m.31: Higuaín. 0-3, m.39: Kaká. 0-4, m.43: Higuaín. 0-5, m.53: Higuaín. 1-5, m.60: Soldado. 1-6, m.62: Kaká. 2-6, m.80: Jonas. 3-6, m.85: Jordi Alba.