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Tuesday, November 28, 2006

Cannavaro press conference: "I have to thank Real Madrid for giving me the opportunity to be here"



Grinning from ear to ear, Fabio Cannavaro appeared in public for the first time at France Football headquarters in Paris with Golden Ball in hand. Lots of gratitude and countless memories were shared in an emotional press conference attended by French, Italian, and Spanish media.

Before taking questions from the press, Fabio Cannavaro posed with the Golden Ball he deservingly won. With a permanent smile on his face, the Madridista began by saying, It's an honour to be here this afternoon to receive an award like this one. I have to thank Real Madrid for giving me the opportunity to be here, as well as all my former Juventus teammates and Italian national team members. This award has added meaning being a defender because it has always been given to players who possess very different qualities than mine. I have to enjoy this moment because this award means so much to me. I don't want to create any controversy of whether or not it's fair because this is an award that covers the efforts over a one year period.”

The Best Footballer of the Year then sat down to answer questions from the press.


The Golden Ball or La Cibeles
I am very happy to be playing for Real Madrid. I want to offer this trophy to the entire Bernabéu. I also dedicate it to the fans in Naples and Turin.

Thuram
Thuram called me. We've gone through a lot of battles together and I also want to dedicate this to him. It's very hard for a defender to win this.

A great World Cup
We weren't a team with players like Maradona, but we were a close-knit group very capable of doing amazing things. My teamates were incredible during the World Cup and we won thanks to them.

The most special moment
It's hard to point out one moment. I remember the great season Juventus had. I played in 36 matches, scored four goals, and had some unforgettable moments. I really remember the World Cup semifinal. It was probably the best match of the year.

Buffón rivalry
Competing against friends is always hard. He's a phenomenal goalkeeper and did an extraordinary job. He's number one. This is a personal and team victory.


Hierro and Baressi
Hierro and Baressi were two great defenders who weren't able to win this award. The difference is that I played in a World Cup and won it. They would have received this award had they won a World Cup as well.

Other nominees
Lots of players could have won. It's not my fault that they gave it to me. I don't vote.

Cannavaro ranking
I would have given it to Buffon because he is my friend and a great keeper. He's in a totally different category when you speak about keepers. Henry second and Pirlo third.

His philosophy
Being consistent is the most important thing. It's what I have done throughout my life and I have to continue working hard.

World Cup and Golden Ball
I always dreamed of winning the World Cup. When they handed over the trophy after the final was a dream come true. I always thought about winning the World Cup when I began playing. It's a lot harder to win the Golden Ball, so I am thrilled.


Titles with Real Madrid
I am fortunate to be 33 years old and playing for Real Madrid and in the Champions League. I hope to win important trophies with this team.

Hardest forwards to defend
Ronaldo and Shevchenko were the two hardest players that I have came up against.

On the same level as Maradona
It's hard. For a Naples native, Maradona is the greatest. I am sure this award is important to my city, but I can't mean as much as Maradona did.




Report by Luis Navarro
Photos by : Daniel Sastre/Beatriz Guzman (MARCA)/As.com.
Special correspondents to Paris, France
Translation by Matthew Goltz

The Best Player in the World: Ramón Calderón and Pedja Mijatovic celebrate with Fabio Cannavaro



They shadowed today's star everywhere he went today and were present during the press conference held at the headquarters of 'France Football'. On several occasions, Fabio Cannavaro named Real Madrid as one of those responsible for the Golden Ball. After speaking to the press, the Italian Madridista was congratulated by the Club President and Sporting Director. Congratulations Champ!


He signed for Real Madrid in July shortly after winning the World Cup with the Italian national team. Ramón Calderón and Pedja Mijatovic were already singing the praises of the best defender at the time. Three months later, praise towards the Italian has multiplied, both as a player and person. The President and Sporting Director were by the centre back's side at every moment and they listened closely to the words of a deserving Golden Ball award winner.

After speaking to the press, Fabio Cannavaro, Ramón Calderon and Pedja Mijatovic posed alongside the Golden Ball; an image that will go down in history. The three Madridistas coincided in pointing out one hope, “That this be the first of many trophies this year.” Real Madrid have made lots of progress with Fabio Cannavaro in defence. Lots of flash bulbs and congratulations for the player. Real Madrid have reasons to celebrate. They have added another Golden Ball to their history book... And there are many more to come.

Sharing the honour:"I'll present it to Madridistas as soon as possible"

Shortly after receiving the Golden Ball, the Italian Madridista expressed his desire to share the prestigious award with all Madridistas. "This is a dream come true and I want to present it to Madridistas as soon as possible," declared Cannavaro.
What was the most important part of this year?
Winning the World Cup was the most incredible thing. Everyone had a close eye on the final and I am sure that marked the difference in winning this award.

You have mentioned Hierro, Baressi… Has this been a long time in coming for a defender?
Yes, very long. I won because I played in the World Cup.

What does winning the Golden Ball mean to you?
I am so happy. It's a dream I never imagined. It's very hard for a defender to win it.


What do you have left to accomplish at 33 years of age?
Improving day by day because a player always has to get better. Now my goal is to win a title with Real Madrid. The League or the Champions League.

Will you dedicate this award to Madridista fans?
As soon as possible. This is a dream come true.

Mijatovic on Cannavaro: "I wasn't surprised that he won"

Real Madrid's Sporting Director wanted to be present when Cannavaro was awarded the Golden Ball, an honour very hard to win, even moreso for a defender. "It didn't come as a surprise to me being that I know a little about the football world," said Pedja Mijatovic to Realmadrid.com and Realmadrid TV.

The Golden Ball indicates that things are on the up and up this season.
We are very happy because we are here with our player who was named the best in the world. It's very important to him and us as well, because he will help us a lot in achieving our objectives. And let's not forget about his teammates, because he is a player that contributes a lot.

And he's a defender, something rarely seen.
He's had a very good year. He won the League with Juventus and played a great World Cup. It didn't come as a surprise to me being that I know a little about the football world. It's very complicated for a defender to win a title like this one.


What other players could have won the Golden Ball?
I don't want to think about other possible winners. I wasn't surprised [Cannavaro] won looking back on the great year he had. After winning the World Cup, it was obvious they were looking for someone on the Italian national team. Henry and Raúl have always come close. I hope a Madridista wins it next year. It would show that we won everthing.

Being 33, it's amazing how eager he is still is to play and win.
He's a great professional. He lives for football and age for a player like him means nothing. That's very important to us. He is still very hungry and he wants to win the Club's tenth Champions League, something out fans really want. We also want to win the League. We're on the right track, and I think we will have a title in hand when all is said and done.


Ramón Calderón on Cannavaro:"He's an exceptional player and an adorable human"

The President of Real Madrid attended Realmadrid.com and RealmadridTV after posing next to Cannavaro with the Golden Ball. Very satisfied with the award, and more importantly, with the player, Calderón stated, "He's a great person and an adorable human. He's an exceptional player." Cannavaro brought up the name Real Madrid several times during his press conference. A class act.

Absolutely. He's an exceptional player and this recognition is evidence of that. He's a great person and an adorable human. I have gotten to know him over the three months he's been with us and he is optimism, happiness, enthusiasm, and desire to build a winning team... Everything that makes him a great person. It's we who should be thanking him for coming to Real Madrid. He had several options and he chose us.

He also brought up other Madridistas, Hierro and Ronaldo.
I really enjoyed listening to him. It's true that Hierro is often left out, but Cannavaro mentioned him. We still remember Madridistas like Hierro who moved around the box with those long passes. It was a nice detail and very important for me. And Ronaldo as well. [Cannavaro] told me he was impossible to mark when in form. Both reminders were very nice.


This Golden Ball could be the start of a great season for Real Madrid.
I am sure of it. We did a great job signing a great coach and allowing him to bring in footballers that put us in a position to win titles. Cannavaro is only missing the Champions League. He has told me he wants to win it this year. It would cap off a perfect year for him. I really hope that's the case. It won't be easy, but the team is finding itself little by little.

Cannavaro is 33, has won virtually everything, and still has the desire to win a lot more.
It's as important as his sporting value. He's an exceptional player in the human aspect, on the bench, on the pitch, in training... His happiness is contagious within the squad and I think he will be a very important player for us.

What does a Madridista born and bred player need on order to win this troph?
I don't know. I would have liked Raúl to win it because he has done everything. It's still possible and I hope it happens. I also think Casillas and others who have developed within our Club. It's true that it's resisting us. Let's see if we can be here soon with a Spanish born and bred player from our Club.

Report by Luis Navarro
Photos by Daniel Sastre
Special correspondents to Paris, France
Translation by Matthew Goltz

Monday, November 27, 2006

A great collection:Real Madrid have more Golden Ball winners than any other team

Real Madrid have had ten Golden Ball winners throughout their history; more than any other Club in the world. Many of the most recognised players have made a name for themselves by playing for Real Madrid, while several others have been signed by the Club shortly after they received the highest individual honour in European football. Realmadrid.com reviews some of those players for you.

ALFREDO DI STÉFANO
The Blond Arrow was the first great player in the history of this sport. Thanks to his tremendous quality and leadership ability, he was the second ever to win the honour from 'France Football' in 1957. The Spanish-Argentine played through the golden years of the team, winning five European Cups. He was chosen to receive the award for a second time in 1959.








RAYMOND KOPA
The French player was named the Best Footballer of the Continent in 1958. Kopa formed part of the lethal duo along with Di Stéfano, and both were on top of the football world due to their spectacular performances. On this occasion, Kopa won the Golden Ball and Di Stéfano took home the Silver Ball, exactly opposite of what took place one year earlier.







RONALDO LUIZ NAZARIO
The Phenomenon finished 1997 off in spectacular style by being named the Best Player in the World after scoring 40 goals that year. It looked like the Brazilian would fade from prominence after a serious knee injury, but in 2002 he won the award again thanks to an excellent World Cup -his eight goals crowned him top scorer- and brilliant performances in his first season with Real Madrid.









ZINEDINE ZIDANE
Zidane was named the Golden Ball recipient in 1998. Despite the fact that his Juventus lost to Real Madrid in the European Cup final that year, Zidane got even by leading Les Bleus to a World Cup title in Saint Denis. Zidane also scored both goals that were the nail in the coffin in the final, and he was named the best player of the competition. He joined Real Madrid in 2001, where he closed out his list of honours by winning the European Cup in Hampdem Park in Glasgow, with an unforgettable mid-air strike included.





LUIS FIGO
The Portugal native left Barcelona for Real Madrid during the most critical point of his career. Figo became a Madridista after being named the best player of Euro 2000 in Holland and Belgium. The Portuguese had a brilliant season with the Merengue and led the Whites to a League title. Later that year, he was awarded the trophy that accredited him as the best player in Europe.









MICHAEL OWEN

The Englishman won the 2001 Golden Ball after a great overall year with Liverpool. Owen and the Reds defeated Alaves in an action-packed UEFA Cup final. He rounded out the year with a European Super Cup and finally this important recognition. He barely beat out Raúl, who came in a close second in the running. Owen signed for Real Madrid in 2003 and played for the Whites for one year.







FABIO CANNAVARO
The Italian adds his name to a long list of Madridistas who have won the Golden Ball. He becomes the third defender to ever win, joining Franz Beckenbauer and Mathias Sammer. Il Capitano was chosen after leading the Azzurra to their fourth World Cup title in Germany. Following the summer competition, he signed for Real Madrid in order to contribute his strength and leadership skills to the White defence.



Report by Carlos Cristóbal
Photos by Realmadrid.com
Translation by Matthew Goltz

It's Official: Golden Ball 2006, France Football announces that Cannavaro has been chosen as Best Footballer of the Year


Fabio Cannavaro can now say he's a Ballon D'Or winner. It had been whispered for several weeks, but the prestigious 'France Football' magazine has just made all the speculation official. Cannavaro will be presented with the award tonight in Paris. The Madridista centre back takes over for Barcelona's Ronaldinho.

Fabio Cannavaro can now boast of the Golden Ball award. Sports magazine 'France Football' has just announced that Real Madrid's Italian centre back has been chosen as the best football player in the world in 2006. After captaining the Azzurra to a World Cup title in Berlin on 9 July, Fabio's career came full swing when he signed for Real Madrid, a team he hopes to conquer the League, King's Cup, and Champions League with this season, the latter being the only title missing from his list of honours.

Cannavaro earned the most votes among the 52 'France Football' correspondents around the world, beating out fellow countryman Gianluigi Buffon, goalkeeper of Juventus, and Arsenal's French forward Thierry Henry. Cannavaro takes over for Ronaldinho, who won the award last year.


AN IMPECCABLE CAREER
Physically imposing despite measuring in at 5'7", Cannavaro has been gifted with a great tactical sense, speed, and ability to anticipate. Three qualities that distinguish a great centre back, and Fabio Cannavaro outshines in all of them. In fact, he was almost named Best Player of the World Cup in Germany, but the award finally went to the player he succeeded in wearing Real Madrid's number ‘5’, Zinedine Zidane.

Cannavaro signed for Naples when he was only 16 years old. He made his official debut when he was 20, in a match against Juventus of Turin. He made the jump to Parma in the 1994/95 season, where he began savouring the taste of international success after winning the UEFA CUP in 1998/99 and two Italian Cups.

In 2002, Inter Milan paid 32 million euros for Cannavaro, making him one of the record signings of the Calcio in terms of defenders. However, he didn't enjoy the same success with Inter that he had experienced with Parma, and was only to able to finish as League runner-up. But an even bigger career change had yet to take place. On the last day of the transfer window, Juve made a dramatic move and bought the player for 9 million euros. Cannavaro won two Scudettos with the Turin side, although the second was rescinded after the recent scandal that shook Italian football.

FABIO CANNAVARO'S TRACK RECORD:
# European U-21 Champion in 1994 (Italy).
# European U-21 Champion in 1995 (Italy).
# 1 UEFA Cup (Parma, 1999).
# 2 Italian Cups (Parma, 1999 and 2002).
# 1 Italian Scudetto (Juventus, 2005).
# 1 FIFA World Cup (2006, Italy).

Realmadrid.com
Photo: France Football

1-0 : Mestalla conquered; Real Madrid won in Valencia thanks to a goal by Raul




Fans didn't see great football in what proved to be a very tough match. The many attacking inaccuracies of both teams made Raul's strike shine brighter, proving decisive for Real Madrid's interests. Both sides fought hard thorughout the match, but in the end, the Whites managed to break the spell and win in Mestalla -a feat they hadn't achieved since the 2002/03 season.

In Spain, a 20-man squad list needs to be reduced to eighteen men by game time. In this case, the most notorious last-minute drop was Iván Helguera, who failed a late fitness test of his swollen right quadriceps. His place as centre back was taken by Sergio Ramos, allowing Míchel Salgado to make his return as right fullback. Quique Sánchez Flores should've probably taken note of Capello's decision; with 15 minutes on the clock, Villa had to be replaced as his injury relapsed.

Speed and inaccuracies predominate throughout
Valencia set a very fast tempo in the opening minutes of the match, with fast ball movement and vertiginous passes as they advanced towards Iker Casillas' goal. But, they faced a rock-solid Real Madrid defence. In the 15th minute, Casillas was forced to save a dangerous cross by Vicente, who had come in for Guaje Villa.

Valencia had more ball posession, but Real Madrid had responsing capacity and managed to intimidate them with two chances on goal by Van Nistelrooy and Robinho. The latter crossed a beautiful serve into the box but there was no oner there to finish it off. Shortly after that, in the 19-minute mark, the Dutch striker had a one-on-one with Cañizares, but the local keeper managed to deflect his shot with the knee. But Valencia still set the pace of the game.

Close to the half hour, Silva shot a ball that came from a missed header by Albiol, but the ball grazed past Iker's post. Real Madrid tried to diminsh Valencia's frantic rhythm by trying to maintain ball control over longer periods of time, but they lacked the depth required to create chances. Both teams displayed unattractive tactical football, but the tension was ever-increasing and soon became an important part of the match. The lack of aim of both teams when shooting on target was alarming throughout the first half and most especially at the end. It was no surprise that this period ended with a goalless draw.


Skill finally makes it through
After halftime both teams stepped onto the pitch with the clear intention of scoring a goal and thus doubling the tension of the first 45'. Real Madrid were the first to strike through Raúl, who kicked the ball into the back of the net a wonderful piece of teamwork. Roberto Carlos ran past Robinho down the left wing. The winger dipped it in to the fullback who, in turn, crossed it back to Raul, who scored a magnificent goal. Valencia's defense failed to deny the Captain of the Whites as they followed Roberto's run down the left flank in amazement instead of marking Raul. Stopper Cañizares and coach Quique Sánchez Flores couldn't hide their desperation.

Valencia reacted immediately, with Angulo as their most dangerous man in the box. His best chance came after a bad save by Casillas from a shot by Silva, but the Valencia forward failed to control the ball and by the time he shot, he only managed to hit the right side of Casilla's net. Next up was Joaquín, who after performing a magnificent and skilful sprint down the right wing sent the ball out. One up on the scoreaboard, Real Madrid relaxed their attitude while Valencia tried harder and harder to equalise the score. Fabio Capello decided to replace Robinho with youth playmaker Rubén De la Red looking for more consistency down the middle, where the young player was flanked by Emerson and Diarra. Meanwhile, Valencia coach Quique Sánchez Flores introduced his last attacking cartridge, Italian striker Tavano, who made his League debut.

Raúl kept shining after scoring the goal, putting defenders Ayala and Albiol through a lot of trouble and never giving them a minute's rest. The Merengue number '7' was back to his old self, performing extremely well in every position throughout the match. The highlights during the final stretch of the encounter were De la Red's chance on goal and Angulo's shot in the 45th minute, which inexplicably flew over the crossbar. Still, Valencia's efforts are worthy of praise; they never stopped attacking and constantly looked for that equalising goal. But it was Real Madrid that succeded and pocketed these three important points, allowing them to stay at the top of the table one more week.


MATCH REPORT:
0- VALENCIA: Cañizares, Miguel, Albiol, Ayala, Curro Torres; Joaquín, Pallardó (Tavano, 72’), Baraja, Silva; Angulo and Villa (Vicente, 14’).
1- REAL MADRID: Casillas, Salgado, Ramos, Cannavaro (Mejía, 45’), Roberto Carlos; Reyes, Diarra, Emerson, Robinho (De la Red, 68’); Raúl; Van Nistelrooy.
GOALS:
0-1, min.51: Raul.
REFEREE: Medina Cantalejo, Andalusian Refereeing Association. Booked Cannavaro (5’), Diarra (25’), Salgado (42’), and Baraja (43’).
HIGHLIGHTS: Twelfth day of the Primera Liga. Game between Valencia and Real Madrid at a Mestalla stadium full to capacity.

Report by Laura Navas
Photography by David R. Anchuelo
Special correspondents to Valencia
Translation by Michael J. O'Donnell

Saturday, November 25, 2006

Squad list: Ronaldo not called up, but Helguera makes it in last-minute; Beckham and Guti injured


Twenty Real Madrid players will travel to Valencia this evening. Youth team players Rubén De la Red, Nieto and goalkeeper Kiko Casilla have made the squad list. Iván Helguera has also been called up and could even play despite having trained on his own all week due to his specific injury-recovering plan. Guti -suspended as well as injured-, Beckham and Ronaldo haven't made it, despite the latter being practically recovered.

Twenty Real Madrid footballers travel to Valencia, although two will be discarded tomorrow. Castilla's Rubén De la Red –who could be an optimum replacement for Guti- Real Madrid C's Miguel Ángel Nieto and Castilla keeper Kiko Casilla have been called up for the match. Iván Helguera, who has a swollen right quadriceps, also made the list in the last minute and will be closely monitored to see if he is match-fit and able to feature tomorrow.

Players who will not be making the 350-kilometer trip include: Guti, who is both suspended and injured, with a mild fibrilar tear on the groin; David Beckham, who still hasn't recovered from his swollen left meniscus disc; and Ronaldo, despite having trained extra hard with the squad since Wednesday and being practically recovered from his grade I sprain of the internal lateral ligament of his left knee. Capello didn't want to take any risks with him.

Emerson, Cassano and Cannavaro have recovered from the niggles they had during Tuesday's Champions League match and will travel to Mestalla.


VALENCIA-REAL MADRID SQUAD LIST:
# GOALKEEPERS: Casillas, Diego López, Kiko Casilla.
# DEFENDERS: Sergio Ramos, Míchel Salgado, Cannavaro, Pavón, Mejía, Raúl Bravo, Roberto Carlos, Iván Helguera.
# MIDFIELDERS: Emerson, Diarra, Robinho, Nieto, Reyes, De la Red, Raúl.
# FORWARDS: Cassano, Van Nistelrooy.


Report by Cristina Monge
Photography by David R. Anchuelo
Translation by Michael J. O'Donnell

Capello press conference: "Raúl can play in Guti's place. They all have different characteristics and will be asked to do different jobs"


Fabio Capello has a large enough squad, but he has decided to appoint the team's captain as playmaker in place of injured and suspended Guti. Capello said Mestalla is always a hard venue to play in, despite the "bad moment Valencia are going through." The coach has faith in his team and is happy with their work so far this season.

Everyone's talking about Valencia's injured players.
Every match is different, depending where you play it in. Mestalla is a tough ground and Valencia haven't lost at home in a long time. They have very supportive fans, but we are convinced of winning, although we know it will be hard.

What do you think of Silva's pardon?
Let him play if he's been allowed to. I don't like meddling in these matters.

All your injured starters have recovered.
Helguera is still having some problems. We'll see how he feels tomorrow morning. The rest are ready to play.

Even though Valencia have many injured players, they are still a strong rival.
This is a very tough league and we have to fight for every game and keep focused. All I know is that my team is in good form.

Your relationship with Quique Sánchez Flores isn't precisely a good one.
It's the same it's always been. One thinks differently as a player, but when you become a coach you understand more things. We have a better relationship as coaches.

Who will play Guti's role?
Raúl can play in Guti's place. They all have different characteristics and will be asked to do different jobs.


If Helguera doesn't recover, will Ramos play as centre back?
Maybe, but there are other options. If Sergio goes in the centre, then Míchel Salgado will play on the right, but if I keep Ramos on the right, then someone else will go in the middle.

Has Van Nistelrooy practised some penalty shots today, just in case?
We practice these every day before the match. Those who take them in a match practised the day before. He or someone else could take the penalties. What's important is that, whoever it is that's going to shoot, he is confident of netting the ball. It doesn't matter that he missed against Olympique Lyonnais. It didn't matter if we drew or won the match.


Will you line up your defense depending on if Villa plays?
I don't have Villa in mind when I configure my defense.

Do you think Sánchez Flores will risk playing him?
I never risk a player. I talk to the doctor, and if he tells me the player still feels something, no matter how small that is, I don't line him up.

Cañizares is another of those players you got rid of during your previous season at Real Madrid.
I'm friends with Cañizares. At that time, we had Buyo and we signed Illgner, but Cañizares has had a great career and has proved to be important for Valencia.


Do you think Valencia aren't fit?
These are hard times for them, but we can't be too confident.

People despise Real Madrid more and more in Valencia.
I don't like people being against Real Madrid. I've always said that Spain is a very sporting country in which people take a match for what it is: simply a match. But, things are changing and I don't like that.

Ronaldo hasn't made the call-up list, but he's been working well.
Ronaldo has been training with the team for three days; he's recovering very well, and if he carries on like this, he'll be ready for next weekend. He has lost some weight, which is good for his knee. I'm very happy with his work. After talking to him we decided it was better for him to stay.

At the start of the season, did you expect to be in the table position you are in at this stage?
If we look at the table, we can see we have the same points as Barcelona, therefore, we must be doing things right. We are still in every competition and keep improving with every match.


Report by Cristina Monge
Photography by David R. Anchuelo
Translation by Michael J. O'Donnell

Iker Casillas: "This match is more special every year"



In an interview to Spanish sports journal As, Real Madrid's goalkeeper, Iker Casillas, talked about the relevance and importance of the match against Valencia. Casillas is aware that the clashes between both teams have become classic matches in the League over the last few years.

How do you see the match against Valencia?
It's become a Spanish classic over the last few years, especially since the Champions League final we won against them in Paris. These clashes are more special every year.

People increasingly dislike Real Madrid in Valencia.
I think that's an exaggeration. The past few seasons have been very hard because everybody has been talking about us for various different reasons.

What do Valencia have for being candidates to winning the League?
They are a strong team and have become a very important side in Spain that fights for the title with very important teams each season. They have won two League titles in the past six years.

Villa or Morientes?
They are very different but very lethal players. They form a perfect attacking front. They each have what the other lacks.

Villa won't be playing...
Better for us, because he is playing very well and scoring great goals. But, in the end, it's a shame because he's a nice guy. I'm friends with him because we are teammates in the national team and I know he won't like missing this particular match.

Morientes will play, though.
He knows me better than I know him as a player. I arrived at Madrid being much younger than him.

Do you think he will be dangerous against you?
I think he will. He is a striker with a very good finishing touch, very powerful and capable. He is an excellent all-around striker.


Is he the most dangerous player they will have on Sunday?
I don't know what to say to that. I think Valencia are best at playing down the wings through Joaquín and Silva. I think they are the best team in Europe when it comes to plays down the wings.

Silva has been allowed to play.
Good for him, but it's the same old story over again. Whenever teams appeal for a pardon before facing Real Madrid, they get one, and whenever we ask for one, we never do and we get criticised for it.

Do you think Sánchez Flores is a good coach for Valencia?
Yes, of course. I'm convinced he is. He is a young and passionate Spanish coach. He should be congratulated for making Valencia a true Spanish team that plays very well. The only problem they have is their bad luck with injuries.


Does his Real Madrid past make him different in any way?
His past gave him the winning character he now has, and he transmits that to his team.

Cañizares is going back to the national team!
Well, he's in good form and always teaches a lesson to those of us who are at a lower level. Despite his age, he's like a kid. He is in very good form.

What's the best possible result for you in Mestalla?
Winning 1-0.

That's what Capello would say!
It would mean not conceding any goals, winning the three points and being happy on the way home. What esle do you want? It's simply perfect.

You are a strong supporter of the youth system. What do you think of the Club going over to Argentina to sign young talents like Gago and Higuaín?
I don't like it. I grew up and was formed in the youth system and I think there are many extraordinary young players there that should get a chance. European teams are very bad at giving their youngsters a chance. If Real Madrid are supposed to be the best team in the world, then, by definition, they should have the best youth system in the world. I wish all our youngsters could have the break I had.


Do you want to finally become the keeper that's conceded the least goals in the League?
I would like to be that one year, but in order to be so we all should be practically flawless in defense, which is a strong challenge. I'm more concentrated in winning more important collective titles.

Capello says the squad are already behaving like a proper team. Do you agree?
Yes, I think he's right. We are becoming a very tight team. We are all very happy with our performance and with our unity. People think it only takes a couple of days to blend well, but it's not that easy. It took Barcelona an entire season, and look at what they have achieved since then. We have to learn from that, but we've only been at it for two months.

Capello doesn't like rival teams having many chances on goal, but the truth is that they do...
We shouldn't think about how many times teams have chances on our goal right now. We can only think that we must win a title this year. We have to win matches, be excited when playing and do our best every time.

Is it extra special to beat a team like Valencia?
Leagues are won by winning against teams like Osasuna, Recreativo or Levante, but it's true that you get an extra boost for beating a big team. We have a very tight calendar, so we'll have to demand even more of ourselves. We have to keep playing at this level until the Christmas holidays. We can't afford to lose any more points at home.

So, you also think you only did a couple of saves against Racing, like Capello said?
He sees the match better than any of us on the field. I have no problem wih him saying that. People are constantly looking for controversy. Capello analyses the match very carefully before he has an opinion, which I always stand by.


You are your toughest critic.
That's true, and I think I'm doing well right now. I feel comfortable and confident. I always have a slow start, but now I'm fine.

Has your training routine changed with the arrival of keeper coach Franco Tancredi?
Yes, of course it has. Each coach has his own methods. Franco likes to focus more on the actual goal and making saves on the ground. Each coach I have teaches me new things.

Do you feel safer at the back with two centre backs and two defending midfielders?
Diarra and Emerson strengthen the defense considerably. Despite the criticism they've had, I really feel a difference. They still have to get more used to playing in Spain. They tell us football here is much faster and that there is a lot more ball movement. Even Zidane was criticised when he arrived. They'll have to get used to it. I think they have done a great job so far. There can be no doubts about that.


Realmadrid.com
Top Photo By : www.As.com

Reyes to Realmadrid.com:"Let's hope we play our best against Valencia; it should be a match to enjoy"

Fabio Capello has counted on him in recent matches and José Antonio Reyes isn't wasting the opportunities he's been given. He wants to play as well as he' been doing so far in Mestalla because "playing against Valencia is always special for both the players and the crowd." He's going to travel to Valencia with a winning mentality: "We're going to win," he told RealmadridTV and Realmadrid.com.

You are gradually making it back to the starting 11. How do you feel about that?
I feel well. You feel better when you go back to being a starter. You play for more minutes and you get used to your position. I feel rather well.
You scored against Racing and took the corner for the first goal against Olympique Lyonnais. It seems you are using the opportunities Capello gives you very well.
I try to do my best in the minutes the coach allows me to play. The truth is, I played well the first match I was a starter in, after being benched for five. I managed to score against Racing and to cross the ball for that goal against Olympique. I can't complain. I'm using the minutes I play the best I can.
The competitiveness within the squad is even more obvious when players get these opportunities.
It's important to have it, not only for the matches themselves, but it's good for training too because we work even harder.


You are playing on both wings and you might even be positioned as centre midfielder now that Guti is injured, a position you've played in before.
I played as centre midfielder for both Sevilla and Arsenal on several occasions, so I wouldn't be surprised if I played there. I don't know what the coach is devising, but if he gives me the chance, I'll try and do it the best I can. Guti is an important member of the team. He is the playmaker, but now he's injured. We have to do what he did and even try to improve on it if we can.

This difficult week will end in one of the toughest stadiums in Spain for you.
It's an exciting match both for the players and the fans. It's one of those games every player likes to play and enjoy every moment of them.


It will be an intense match with a lot of pressure in the midfield. What's your stratergy?
We are expecting a tough match. The best matches are those which are hard to win. Let's hope we win. We are going to Mestalla with a winning mentality.

So, you will have to be even more of a team to beat Valencia?
No. We have to be as we've been so far. We are a team in every meaning of the word. We are playing well and are more organised in each game. To beat Valencia we have to keep the winning mentality we have right now.

Both teams have injured players, and if you beat them you will be eight points ahead of them.
It would be an advantage for us to leave them so far behind in points.


If you win, this will be your third consecutive victory in the League this season. Do you think now is one of the most important moments of the championship?
It's one of the toughest becasue we have to face Valencia, Bilbao and Sevilla. We have complicated matches before Christmas, and if we win, we will have taken a very important step to being at the very top of the table.

When will we see the best possible Real Madrid?
I hope against Valencia. The sooner the better for all of us.

And the best Reyes?
In Valencia, I hope.

You've been living in Madrid for more than two months and you've adapted easily to the city.
I feel at home. I adapted immediately because it is drastically different to London. I didn't like living there.

The next away match is against Sevilla. That will be special for you, won't it?
It's the only really special match for me and the one I will enjoy the most.


Rreport by Luis Navarro
Photography by Ángel Martínez
Translation by Michael J. O'Donnell

Emerson: "It will be a hard match"


Emerson is aware that the match against Valencia will be tough despite the injured players the home team will have on Sunday. "The ones that play will want to impress their coach, so we can't lower our guard," he said. Emerson has recovered from his muscle problems and will probably be ready to play on Sunday.

Ronaldo is working hard in order to return as soon as possible.
That's good. The coach will decide if he travels to Valencia. He is training very hard.

How's your injury?
I'm much better. I will train with the team tomorrow and we will then see if I'm ready to play.

Do you think the match will be easier due to Valencia's injured men?
Valencia are always a tough team to play against. They have very good players and they will be tough to beat. It's not the same to face a match with so many injured players, but we have to think it will be as hard as always. Those players who play will want to impress their coach, and some may even play their best game up to then.


Who's more at a loss: Real Madrid without Guti or Valencia without Villa?
We will miss Guti on the pitch. Villa is playing very well, but we have to think about ourselves.

What's the plan to follow without Guti?
It will be hard for the coach to figure that out. We don't know what he's thinking of doing. We'll have to wait and see.

There are players in the youth system that can replace him.
Raúl has already played in Guti's position, but I don't know what Capello will want to do.

The crowd in Madrid haven't warmed up to you. Do you prefer playing away matches?
I always think about the team and not about that. We are constantly improving, and if we eventually win a title, the crowd's attitude will change. I have to work for the team and do what the coach asks of me. I don't have to be flashy because I have a very specific job to do on the pitch.

Why don't the fans like your dirty work?
I don't know. I work very hard to be useful to the team.


Have your teammates told you about the atmosphere that builds up in Mestalla?
No, but I know it will be a hard match.
You've played in many different leagues. What's your take on all the injuries that are taking place in the Spanish League this year?
It's true there are many injuries happening, and that's not good. Most players have to wait a minimum of three months to play, and I don't know why. It's hard to explain what's happening. Normally players injure themselves on their own, not by being hit. I guess it's bad luck.

Do you think you'll have to face Valencia as if they were Barcelona?
I face every match with the same intensity. Valencia have won the League in the past and they won't be an easy rival. As always, three points are at stake, so we will be as tense as ever.

You beat Valencia 3-0 when you were at Roma coached by Capello, one of the goals being yours.
I have very fond memories of my time at Roma. That team played very well that day. We'll have to play equally well on Sunday in order to win.

Nieto is a youth system player that often trains with you. What do you make of him?
All the kids do their best because the coach is giving them the opportunity of learning more by training with veteran players.


Report by Luis Navarro
Photography by Ángel Martínez
Translation by Michael J. O'Donnell

Beckham wants to know what it feels like to win something with Real Madrid: "I need to win a title at this Club"


David Beckham says he "feels well" in Spain, but he admits not wanting to spend another season without winning a title. He hopes he can help the team win with his game. "I want to be a part of this team," said Beckham to DT magazine in an interview that will be published in December, "I obviously want Real Madrid to be successful, but I want to be an active part of that success. I don't want this season to end like the previous three, having won nothing. I need to win something with Real Madrid."

"My teammates have told me that it is incredible to win a League or a Champions League at this Club. I want to experience that too," said the 31 year-old player, "We must believe it is possible for us to win titles like the Champions League, although it will be complicated because there are very good teams in the European competition, but we are always one of the favourites. We have a great team that aspires to win."

His current condition as a substitute player doesn't make things easy for him, but he is nevertheless patient, despite being injured. "At the end of the day, I only think of playing every match. I am passionate about football. We all want to play, but we have to be patient and wait for our chance," said Beckham. When asked about the possibility of ending his career at Real Madrid, David answered, "For the moment, I'm happy playing football for Real Madrid, that is, when I do play. Ending my career in the US is a possibility for the future."


Beckham also recalled the reasons that made him sign for Real Madrid. "I wanted to leave England with my familiy. It's been an incredible experience, especially living the day to day with world class players like Zinedine Zidane. That was also one of the reasons that made me sign."

Misses playing for England
Beckham also misses his days as an England player, but it doesn't "worry" him that he might never play for them again. "I can still play for my country and I'd like to do so. But I won't get downhearted if I never go back because I've had a terrific run. I've played for England for 11 years, I was captain for six, and I've had 94 international caps. It's been a great honour, but I want more... I always want more."

Nevertheless, the English midfielder praises his fellow teammates on the national squad. They are playing very well. Results haven't been that great, but England have some of the best players in Europe and I'm sure they will soon be successful." Commenting on his form, Beckham said, "I was a faster player ten years ago, but I still feel well and fit, which in the end isn't that surprising because I work very hard."

Realmadrid.com

Thursday, November 23, 2006

Guti extremely grateful: "Capello has been key in my present form and for the contract extension"


Just after having extended his contract and positively elated, Guti offered a press conference where he expressed his satisfaction for the way things are going. He will hang his boots at Real Madrid, where it all started and, as he says, “it's a dream come true.” Regarding his two-match suspension, the Madridista playmaker assures that the team's back is well covered and that there is enough bench depth to substitute him. “This team has many phenomenal players who can take over for me,” said the midfielder.

You finally signed your contract extension.
It was one of my dreams: extend the contact and finish my career here. It's definitely a dream come true from a sporting viewpoint. I am grateful to the President, to Mijatovic and to the fans.

Do you feel more valued than ever?
Yes, I do. There is no better reward than playing and having signed this contract extension. This means that the coach trusts me and has confidence in my skills. I'm doing great now.

Are you still hung up about the play that meant your sending-off against Racing Santander?
I've thought about it a lot. I lost my temper. That hurts me and the team. I end up not featuring in games that I am dying to play. I was very tense at that point in the game and I made a mistake.


It seems like many people were waiting for you to do this to renew their criticism against you.
That's my fate. I'm not the kind of player that people have lukewarm feelings for. Many journalists are not very happy when things are going well for me and vice-versa.

How do you feel physically?
I had the MRI and the doctors confirmed that I had a small fibirilar tear on my groin. I will be back with the team and fully recovered in a couple of weeks.

Is there an excessive dependence of you out on the pitch?
No. The team has many quality players. None of us stand out above the rest. We have a very large squad and it will become obvious that the team is able to win without me. Both Raúl and Reyes can play in my position.

Was getting to an agreement on your contract extension harder than you imagined?
Not really, because both parts agreed on years and money. I very much wanted to stay at the Club, and they in turn wanted to renew my contract. This made things easy.

Capello has been key to making it happen.
He has trusted me a lot and has given me continuity as a starter. He's been key to my renewal. I hope I don't disappoint him.

Did the situation surrounding your renewal affect you when you were sent off on Saturday?
I was the first to be angry with what I did, and so was the coach. I will now miss some important matches. But, a player doesn't think about things like contract extensions when he steps onto the pitch.

Did you tackle so harshly because you had been challenged badly during the rest of the match?
They fouled me several times, but that is no excuse to do what I did. I had to be calmer on the pitch. I still have to mature a bit when it comes to that. I don't feel unprotected.

Do you think you're too far behind in form to teams such as Barcelona and Chelsea?
We have to improve a lot in order to win more matches and win titles this season. It is important to get positive results. Barcelona are playing very well, even with injured key players, but there are better teams this season and it won't be easy for them to win again. We are going to put a lot of pressure on them.

Does the great number of serious injuries in the League worry you?
Many tragedies are happening that didn't use to happen before. No one starts a game thinking about that, but something must be going on for it to happen. I guess the ground is an important factor, as well as the excessive number of matches played. There are many different reasons.

Have you stopped thinking about playing for Spain?
As long as Luis Aragonés is coach the doors are shut for me. I have to get over that. There have been other times in which I haven't played that much and in which I wasn't drafted. Iniesta, Xavi and Cesc are very good and strong players.

Do you think a future replacement for you will come from the youth system or in the winter market opening?
It's up to the Club to decide, but I would like my future replacement to come from the youth teams. The coach knows there are many good players there, and if he considers it for a while, he will get my replacement from the youth system.

People talk about Luis Aragonés getting the sack in December.
I hope he doesn't get it. I wish for Spain to win and get to the very top of international football.


Report by Luis Navarro
Photography by Daniel Sastre
Translation by Luis Orueta & Michael J. O'Donnell

Contract extension:Guti to stay at Real Madrid until 2010


It's official. Jose María Gutiérrez, "Guti", will remain at Real Madrid until 30 June 2010. The player signed an extension to his contract with President Ramón Calderón. Both were satisfied with the conditions of the contract.

The Santiago Bernabéu's Board Room was prepped for a special occasion scheduled for 6:30 pm on Wednesday. José María Gutiérrez, "Guti", had an appointment at the stadium, where he was to sign a 2-year contract extension with Real Madrid, from 2008 to 2010. "Guti deserves to end his footballing days at Real Madrid," said Pedja Mijatovic two days before.

The Club's Sporting Director kept his word. Ramón Calderón, President of the Club, arrived at the stadium just a few minutes after Guti. The second captain and President greeted each other and went straight to business. Calderón and Guti were accompanied by Pedja Mijatovic, Carlos Bucero, Club Director, and Zoran Vekic, the player's agent.


During the act, Ramón Calderón joked with Guti. "They say you are my favourite player," he said at one point. He also asked after the player's injury. Guti had to leave the pitch in the 20th minute of the match against Olympique Lyonnais on Tuesday. He informed the President he has suffered a minor fibrilar tear and that he will have to be on recovery leave for "ten days." Calderón also inquired if the Footballing Directorship was going to appeal the two-match suspension imposed by the Spanish Disciplinary Committee. If maintained, he would miss upcoming League games against Valencia away and Athletic Bilbao at home.

The contract extension will allow the playmaker to hang up his boots with the Whites. Guti has played on practically every category in the Club's youth system. The eleventh anniversary of his debut with the first team will be on the second of December. Roberto Carlos will be the next first team player to enter a contract extension. The Brazilian defender also reached a 1-year extension agreement with the Club, thus extending his stay at Real Madrid until 2008. The new agreement also contemplates the possibility of further extending this relationship for one addtional year.


Report by Santiago Siguero
Photography by Daniel Sastre
Translation by Michael J. O'Donnell

Zidane returns home: "I'm proud of being part of Real Madrid's history"


Zinedine Zidane returned to the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium to take part in a Canal+ France documentary in which the former football star recalls some of his best moments at Real Madrid. He later spared some moments to talk to Realmadrid.com, saying, "the team will improve" and that he feels "proud of being part of Real Madrid's history."

Zinedine Zidane returned to the Santiago Bernabéu for the first time since he retired from professional football. He did so to take part in a Canal+ France documentary where the French star shows the stadium and the Trophy Room, among other places. First off, Zizou was filmed on the pitch while he explained what one feels when playing in such a magical venue, remembering some of the best goals he scored here. He then visited the dressing rooms and recalled for the camera some of the best moments he lived with his fellow teammates there.

The next "location" was the Trophy Room, where there are constant refrences to his persona, such as videos replaying his best goals. Watching those videos with him, one could read the nostalgia and the pride in his eyes. The best moment came when he visited the room where the 9 European Cups are displayed. Zidane reportedly scored one of the best goals in recent football and European Cup history during the Glasgow final that Real Madrid won against Bayer Leverkusen.
Zidane: "Watching Real Madrid win will always make me happy"

How do you feel after returning to the Bernabéu?
I'm very happy. It's the first time I'm back at the stadium since my last League match against Villarreal. Remembering my time at this Club always makes me happy. I have very fond memories.

The Real Madrid Museum -including the Trophy Room- clearly shows you are part of the history of this Club.
I'm very happy and very proud of being part of the history of Real Madrid. The fans were always very affectionate with me here.

How do you view football from "the outside?"
I don't watch much football because I'm very busy. I don't really miss it that much because I'm doing a lot of things. I'm dealing with my retirement quite well.

Have you seen any Real Madrid games this season?
I think they're a good team, but I also think they can improve. I think they will gradually get better and I will be very happy when they win a title.

Do you keep in touch with your former teammates?
Not much, but I'm very happy when they win because I have many friends here. I'm also happy for the Club.

Puskas died a few days ago.
It must be sad for his family. He was a very important figure in football. It's always sad when someone dies. The most important thing is that the family copes well with his death.

Cannavaro has been tipped as this year's Golden Ball winner.
He would be a fair winner, as would Buffon.

You could win it too.
No. I don't count this year.


Report by Álvaro Velasco
Photography by Daniel Sastre
Translation by Michael J. O'Donnell

Wednesday, November 22, 2006

Raúl and Diego López react to Cup tie against Betis: "Hard, but we should win"

The Real Madrid captain and starting keeper in the King's Cup spoke to Realmadrid.com about their first impressions of the Betis tie. Both agree that the Green-and-White won't make things easy for the Madridistas and that their bad patch play could end at any moment.

Raúl:
“We drew them last year and won the tie. This year is totally different and just as hard. We have the advantage of playing the second leg at home, and even though they aren't in top form, they may have improved by the time January rolls around.”

Diego López:
“It will be hard, but we should win, especially if we're playing the second leg at the Bernabéu. There's still a month and a half before we play, so there's plenty of time, including a holiday, to see just how each team comes into the tie.”

Ramos press conference:
The first question asked during Sergio Ramos' press conference was about the Cup tie, and the Madridista didn't hide his excitement about returning home: “We played them last year and qualified for the next round. I have great memories of playing against them. I am very happy to be returning home.”


Report by Luis Navarro
Photos by Realmadrid.com
Translation by Matthew Goltz

Betis-Real Madrid in King's Cup

Real Madrid will face Real Betis Balompié in the Last 16 tie of the 2006/07 King's Cup. The first leg will be played at the Ruiz de Lopera Stadium on 10 January, while the return leg will be one week later at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Real Madrid's Sporting Director Pedja Mijatovic watched as Fabio Capello's Real Madrid drew Betis in the pairings for the Last 16 of this year's edition of the King's Cup. We saw this same matchup last season in the same competition, although they met in the quarterfinal round. Real Madrid won the tie and moved on to the next round after 1-0 victories in both Seville and Madrid.

“The Cup is a very important competition for Real Madrid because we haven't won it in many years. There is no easy opponent. Every team is good, and Betis are a strong side, but we should be the favourites. Betis aren't going through a great patch in League play, but teams look for their chance to shine in knockout ties like the Cup,” evaluated Pedja Mijatovic. According to the Madridista Sporting Director, the Seville side "are one of the toughest opponents we could have drawn, but we are confident that we can win this tie.”

LAST 16 PAIRINGS:

# BETIS-REAL MADRID
# Levante-Osasuna
# Malaga-Zaragoza
# Valladolid-Villarreal
# Rayo Vallecano-Sevilla
# Mallorca-Deportivo
# Alaves-F.C Barcelona
# Getafe-Valencia


Realmadrid.com

Fabio Capello: "We could have scored three goals against a team that currently stand undefeated"


Clear and concise, as always, Fabio Capello highlighted how difficult it is to beat Olympique Lyonnais, and his team's performance, who "could have scored three goals against a team that currently stand undefeated."

"It's easy to concede a goal when it comes from a set piece taken by Juninho. Tonight's has been an excellent match. We had the chance of winning with a penalty. They showed why they hadn't conceded a goal in the competition so far, especially during the first 45 minutes, and we could have netted three. They are a very tough team to beat."

"It's very hard to mark men like Carew. I know him very well because I trained him at Roma, but I've never seen him play like he did tonight. I saw a great player tonight. We have the chance of changing our game's system by replacing Emerson, so we must be flexible at all times and explore this."

"Their first goal was off-side. He was off-side both times he took the ball. The second goal came after a fantastic free-kick from Juninho. No one takes set pieces like him. He is extraordinary."


"Everyone wants me to play forwards, and when I line up Guti you people always say it's the wrong decision. To play the first game at home can be both positive or negative, depending on the result."

"They are a very good team who have luck on their side. They are currently leaders in the French League. They rested three players the other day, which means they can allow themselves to think ahead about the Champions League. They have very good players."




Report by Luis Navarro
Photography by Ángel Martínez
Translation by Michael J. O'Donnell

Tuesday, November 21, 2006

2-2, Ruud misses winning chance

Real Madrid have gone through to the second round of the Champions League, but as second of their group. The Whites fought hard throughout the entire match, and were about to turn the score over from being 2-0 down, but it just wasn't to be. Goals by Diarra and Van Nistelrooy, respectively, equalised the score, and the Dutchman's 89' penalty kick was stopped by Coupet, preventing the Whites' victory. Real Madrid face Dynamo Kyiv in two weeks time.

This was the fourth head-to-head match between Real Madrid and Olypmique Lyonnais in two seasons, with the first three games resulting in two defeats and one draw for the Whites. Fabio Capello lined up the most frequent starting eleven seen so far this season with hopes of beating the French side and taking over the top spot in Group E. Cannavaro, finally recovered from his injury, found his way into the starting eleven but had to wear a thigh band, and Robinho returned as a starter on the left wing. The highly-anticipated clash was expected to be one of the best you can get in the Champions League nowadays, and despite Lyon missing important players such as Wiltord, Govou, Fred and Benzema -the visitors are still a very compact team that can play virtually blindfolded.

Lyon get off to a strong start
Real Madrid started playing better than the visiting side, applying good pressure on their rival's midfield. In the first ten minutes, Emerson and Diarra controled important Lyonnais players like Toulalan, Juninho and Tiago, while Robinho, Raúl and Guti flowed exceptionally well in the attack. The first ten minutes gave fans high hopes for a victory, but they were soon dashed by John Carew. The Norwegian striker, who put a lot of pressure on the Madrid back line from the opening kick off, pulled off a beautiful play in the eleventh minute. He dribbled the ball on his own from the midfield and didn't stop until it hit the back of Casilla's goal.

Real Madrid couldn't manage to put goalkeeper Coupet to the test, their only chance being a header by Raúl on the edge of the box. On the 20-minute mark, Guti had to be replaced by Reyes due to injury, which allowed the fans to catch a glimpse of what the team might look like on Sunday against Valencia. The substitution meant the Seville native would play down the right wing and Raúl as centre midfielder. Meanwhile, Carew continued causing trouble for the defense and proved hard to handle for Fabio Cannavaro. On one occasion, he crossed the ball for Tiago to score, but Casillas managed to make the save. Minutes later, he was again able to dart down the pitch, but was again denied of a score.

Real Madrid fight back
Real Madrid had lost control of the ball and the match. Things weren't going as Fabio Capello had planned, especially after Malouda scored Lyonnais' second goal. The always effective Juninho served a terrific free kick that the French international scored after getting by both Ramos and Casillas. The Whites were two goals down after thirty minutes of play. Things were looking tough for the home team, but the match was far from over.
Reyes knew what had to be done, and a play he threaded down the left wing nearly ended with a score. Coupet managed to stop the shot and neither Raúl nor Van Nistelrooy could hit the rebound. Reyes then threw in a corner that hit on Van Nistelrooy, but that Diarra headed into the goal. The goal gave the Whites a boost and served as a warning to his former teammates that there were more than 45 minutes left to be played.


Give and take
Tempo and emotions ran wild following halftime. Real Madrid had no other option than to attack. Lyon sat tight and opted to wait for a chance to counter. Both teams had several chances on goal, but Ramos, Robinho, Carew and Malouda all failed to score. Anything could happen. The match was there for the taking by either side and the crowd appreciated the excitement both teams were providing.

Van Nistelrooy misses a penalty
Real Madrid's gas lasted only 20 minutes and fatigue began taking its toll. Capello decided to substitute Cassano for Emerson, but Olympique Lyonnais' ability to press forward gave them growing confidence. The Whites' only hope could only come from a set piece, and that chance finally came. In the 83rd minute, Van Nistelrooy scored by taking the rebound of a header missed by Raúl off a corner kick.

It was hard to equalise against a team that stands undefeated so far in the Champions League, but they managed to do it. Real Madrid could have completed the perfect turnaround had Van Nistelrooy not missed a penalty in the 89th minute. A real shame. Coupet's magical hand saved the day.

MATCH REPORT:
2 – REAL MADRID: Casillas; Ramos, Helguera, Cannavaro, Roberto Carlos; Raúl, Diarra, Emerson (Cassano 74’), Robinho; Guti (Reyes 20’) & Van Nistelrooy.
2 OLYMPIQUE LYONNAIS: Coupet; Reveillere, Cris, Squillaci, Abidal; Toulalan (Diarra 91’), Tiago, Juninho; Clerc, Malouda & Carew.
GOALS:
0-1, 11': Carew defeats Casillas in an individual play.
0-2, 30': Malouda scores from a free-kick taken by Juninho.
1-2, 38': Diarra scores a header from a corner.
2-2, 83': Van Nistelrroy scores from a rebound shot on the post by Raúl.

REFEREE: Terje Hauge (Norway). Booked Toulalan (19’), Revelleire (49’), Juninho (54’), Roberto Carlos (74’), Cannavaro (83’),Raúl (90’) & Ramos (93’).

Video of Real Madrid Vs Lyon
Match HIGHLIGHTS:
Matchday 5 in Group E of the Champions League. Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.



Report by Luis Navarro
Photography by Ángel Martínez & David R. Anchuelo
Translation by Michael J. O'Donnell