Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos and his teammates took their chiseled bods and hot lady friends on a massive (and expensive) yacht this week ... days before the Champions League Final. Ramos, Luka Modric, Lucas Vazquez and their significant others met for some R&R leading up to the game against Juventus this Saturday ... chillin' with jet skis and catchin' some rays in Ibiza. As for the yacht ... the 101-foot Kirios comes at a hefty $64,000 A...
- 5/31/2017
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Alessandro Di Marco/epa/Corbis
Buying and selling, wheeling and dealing, the transfer market is the finest aspect of Football Manager. Snapping up a cut-price star is as satisfying as any trophy the game can offer, and while the AI-controlled league around you blasts money for the biggest current stars, the key to success is signing your title-winning team 5 years in advance.
Centre backs should be the base of your team. They are the platform you should build everything on, meaning that the right partnership is essential. There are ball-players, there are total tacticians, and there are brutish powerhouses who love nothing more than to wrap a rocket boot around the ball to prevent any danger.
You won’t find Gerard Pique, Vincent Kompany, Diego Godin, or Sergio Ramos here, but you will find the next generation of stars. The following centre backs are all aged 21 or younger, meaning they...
Buying and selling, wheeling and dealing, the transfer market is the finest aspect of Football Manager. Snapping up a cut-price star is as satisfying as any trophy the game can offer, and while the AI-controlled league around you blasts money for the biggest current stars, the key to success is signing your title-winning team 5 years in advance.
Centre backs should be the base of your team. They are the platform you should build everything on, meaning that the right partnership is essential. There are ball-players, there are total tacticians, and there are brutish powerhouses who love nothing more than to wrap a rocket boot around the ball to prevent any danger.
You won’t find Gerard Pique, Vincent Kompany, Diego Godin, or Sergio Ramos here, but you will find the next generation of stars. The following centre backs are all aged 21 or younger, meaning they...
- 3/2/2016
- by Michael Potts
- Obsessed with Film
© Ivan Arlandis Ivars/Demotix/Corbis
Manchester United are thought to be stepping up their hunt for Real Madrid centre back Sergio Ramos, and are eyeing up a bid for the Spaniard this summer, according to a report from news.ladbrokes.com.
The Red Devils came close to signing Ramos last year, but saw their deal fall flat as he signed a new contract with Real. The 29 year old would certainly cost Louis van Gaal and co. a pretty penny, with reports suggesting a price tag of between £44m and £59m.
According to Ladbrokes, Ramos’ agent has indicated that his client is likely to join whichever club Pep Guardiola is in charge of at the time. The current Bayern Munich boss has recently expressed a desire to manage in England next season, and with Louis van Gaal under immense pressure, he could well find himself in the Old Trafford hot-seat for 2016/17.
However,...
Manchester United are thought to be stepping up their hunt for Real Madrid centre back Sergio Ramos, and are eyeing up a bid for the Spaniard this summer, according to a report from news.ladbrokes.com.
The Red Devils came close to signing Ramos last year, but saw their deal fall flat as he signed a new contract with Real. The 29 year old would certainly cost Louis van Gaal and co. a pretty penny, with reports suggesting a price tag of between £44m and £59m.
According to Ladbrokes, Ramos’ agent has indicated that his client is likely to join whichever club Pep Guardiola is in charge of at the time. The current Bayern Munich boss has recently expressed a desire to manage in England next season, and with Louis van Gaal under immense pressure, he could well find himself in the Old Trafford hot-seat for 2016/17.
However,...
- 1/6/2016
- by Jack G King
- Obsessed with Film
Andres Kudacki/AP/Press Association Images
Manchester United’s top summer transfer target, Sergio Ramos has announced that he will sign a new deal at Real Madrid, according to The Mirror.
The 29-year-old has been trying to force a move to Old Trafford for the last few months but has reportedly agreed to sign a new five-year deal that will keep him at the club until June 2020.
Ramos had become disillusioned with life in Madrid and wanted a contract that represented his worth in the side, especially now that he has taken over as club captain following Iker Casillas’ transfer to Porto.
But after a successful meeting with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, Marca reports that Ramos has come to an agreement which offers him a substantial pay-rise alongside the captain’s armband.
The new contract guarantees that the centre-back ends his career with the Spanish giants, that was reportedly one of Ramos’ wishes.
Manchester United’s top summer transfer target, Sergio Ramos has announced that he will sign a new deal at Real Madrid, according to The Mirror.
The 29-year-old has been trying to force a move to Old Trafford for the last few months but has reportedly agreed to sign a new five-year deal that will keep him at the club until June 2020.
Ramos had become disillusioned with life in Madrid and wanted a contract that represented his worth in the side, especially now that he has taken over as club captain following Iker Casillas’ transfer to Porto.
But after a successful meeting with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, Marca reports that Ramos has come to an agreement which offers him a substantial pay-rise alongside the captain’s armband.
The new contract guarantees that the centre-back ends his career with the Spanish giants, that was reportedly one of Ramos’ wishes.
- 7/29/2015
- by Matt Smith
- Obsessed with Film
Adam Davy/Empics Sport
Real Madrid are ready to battle Premier League side Manchester City for Paris Saint-Germain’s highly-rated centre-back Marquinhos, according to talkSPORT.
Madrid, who are also reportedly interested in Juventus’ Leonardo Bonucci, are already looking at potential replacements for Sergio Ramos. The Spain international has been heavily linked with a move away from the Bernabeu Stadium, with Manchester United being his most likely destination.
Now, reports coming from talkSPORT suggest that new Los Blancos boss Rafael Benitez is monitoring the situation of the Psg’s Brazilian defender Marquinhos. Manchester City have reportedly been long-term admirers of the 21-year-old, after showing interest in him during his Roma days. Barcelona also reportedly enquired about him last year.
The Brazil international, who made the switch to Ligue 1 in the summer of 2013, has made a total of 63 appearances in all competitions for the French club since joining.
Benitez is wasting little...
Real Madrid are ready to battle Premier League side Manchester City for Paris Saint-Germain’s highly-rated centre-back Marquinhos, according to talkSPORT.
Madrid, who are also reportedly interested in Juventus’ Leonardo Bonucci, are already looking at potential replacements for Sergio Ramos. The Spain international has been heavily linked with a move away from the Bernabeu Stadium, with Manchester United being his most likely destination.
Now, reports coming from talkSPORT suggest that new Los Blancos boss Rafael Benitez is monitoring the situation of the Psg’s Brazilian defender Marquinhos. Manchester City have reportedly been long-term admirers of the 21-year-old, after showing interest in him during his Roma days. Barcelona also reportedly enquired about him last year.
The Brazil international, who made the switch to Ligue 1 in the summer of 2013, has made a total of 63 appearances in all competitions for the French club since joining.
Benitez is wasting little...
- 6/30/2015
- by Gareth Hinton
- Obsessed with Film
Adam Davy/Pa Wire
After Sir Alex Ferguson left the Theatre of Dreams in 2013, there’s no denying that Manchester United have struggled.
David Moyes would be hand-picked to fill the Sir Alex void, although he underwhelmed many and only lasted a season. The legendary Louis Van Gaal has since taken the reigns at Utd, but he isn’t yet yet hitting the heights that many around the club expect.
Many fans and pundits can see the holes that need filling in the Man Utd line-up, and the general consensus is that Utd are suffering for not replacing established stars sooner, particularly at centre-half and in midfield.
One could make the argument that Utd should be looking at the likes of Giorgio Chiellini, Andrea Barzagli, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Wesley Sniejder, Sergio Ramos, or Lionel Messi. Sure, all great players, all capable of putting in world class performances. But Utd have to...
After Sir Alex Ferguson left the Theatre of Dreams in 2013, there’s no denying that Manchester United have struggled.
David Moyes would be hand-picked to fill the Sir Alex void, although he underwhelmed many and only lasted a season. The legendary Louis Van Gaal has since taken the reigns at Utd, but he isn’t yet yet hitting the heights that many around the club expect.
Many fans and pundits can see the holes that need filling in the Man Utd line-up, and the general consensus is that Utd are suffering for not replacing established stars sooner, particularly at centre-half and in midfield.
One could make the argument that Utd should be looking at the likes of Giorgio Chiellini, Andrea Barzagli, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Wesley Sniejder, Sergio Ramos, or Lionel Messi. Sure, all great players, all capable of putting in world class performances. But Utd have to...
- 2/27/2015
- by Andrew Pollard
- Obsessed with Film
Lil Wayne hit up the Montage Hotel in Beverly Hills this week to chat business with Cristiano Ronaldo -- and wound up kicking it with the entire Real Madrid soccer team ... TMZ Sports has learned. As we previously reported, Weezy's starting his own sports management company and Ronaldo is Client #1 -- so it's no coincidence they hooked up while they were both in L.A. Sources close to the situation tell us Wayne and Ronaldo...
- 7/30/2014
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Nothing like a guys trip to Victoria's Secret ... at least for Team Spain -- because Sergio Ramos and his superstar teammates hit up the lingerie shop in D.C. today and TMZ Sports has the footage. Ramos -- one of the best soccer players in the world -- hit up the thong section in Vs while a female employee showed him a series of options ... likely a gift for his super hot Gf Pilar Rubio.
- 6/5/2014
- by TMZ Staff
- TMZ
Atlanta (AP) — Pepsi is pairing singers and filmmakers to release a visual album that celebrates soccer during World Cup. Spike Lee, Timbaland, Idris Elba and Kelly Rowland are some of the artists whose work is featured on the Pepsi-curated album, "Beats of the Beautiful Game," to be released June 10. The soda company announced Monday its album will be a collection of 11 anthem-like songs and short films. "What I love about this is how creative it is," said Rowland, whose song "The Game" will have a video directed by Lee. "It's a project with a whole bunch of different artists being able to do different songs. I'm excited about being a part of something like this." The Janelle Monae track, "Heroes," was the first single to debut in April. The album will be released through Capitol Music Group's independent label, Caroline. Each week, a new track and short film will be...
- 5/12/2014
- by AP Staff
- Hitfix
AP Photo/Andres Kudacki
Date: Wednesday, April 16 Venue: Mestalla, Valencia Kick-Off: 20:30 BST
Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona clash in the Copa del Rey Final at Valencia’s Mestalla stadium tonight, with both clubs looking to get their respective seasons back on course.
Team News
Real Madrid are without leading goalscorer Cristiano Ronaldo with the forward still sidelined by the hamstring injury that has ruled him out of his side’s last three games.
Brazilian fullback Marcelo is a doubt, but defensive colleague Sergio Ramos is fit after recovering from a neck injury.
Barcelona have fitness concerns over defensive trio Gerard Pique (hip), Marc Bartra (hamstring) and Carles Puyol (knee), who are all said to be serious doubts.
Coach Gerardo Martino could again be forced to play midfielder Sergio Busquets at the back – as he did in the 1-0 defeat against Granada last Saturday.
Key Stats
Real Madrid have...
Date: Wednesday, April 16 Venue: Mestalla, Valencia Kick-Off: 20:30 BST
Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona clash in the Copa del Rey Final at Valencia’s Mestalla stadium tonight, with both clubs looking to get their respective seasons back on course.
Team News
Real Madrid are without leading goalscorer Cristiano Ronaldo with the forward still sidelined by the hamstring injury that has ruled him out of his side’s last three games.
Brazilian fullback Marcelo is a doubt, but defensive colleague Sergio Ramos is fit after recovering from a neck injury.
Barcelona have fitness concerns over defensive trio Gerard Pique (hip), Marc Bartra (hamstring) and Carles Puyol (knee), who are all said to be serious doubts.
Coach Gerardo Martino could again be forced to play midfielder Sergio Busquets at the back – as he did in the 1-0 defeat against Granada last Saturday.
Key Stats
Real Madrid have...
- 4/16/2014
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Andres Kudacki/AP/Press Association Images
Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick to break Alfredo Di Stefano’s record as the the top scorer in Clasico history as Barcelona defeated 10-man Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Messi scored his 19th, 20th and 21st goals in this fixture as Barca twice battled from behind to close the gap at the top of La Liga to just a point.
The Argentinian was the creator of his side’s first goal, playing in Andres Iniesta to hammer home after just seven minutes.
Karim Benzema then levelled and gave his side the lead with quick-fire goals and Cristiano Ronaldo scored a penalty but Messi turned the game on its head with a hat-trick.
Barca knew they had to win here to remain within touching distance of leaders Madrid, who could have moved seven points clear at the summit with victory.
And Gerardo Martino’s...
Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick to break Alfredo Di Stefano’s record as the the top scorer in Clasico history as Barcelona defeated 10-man Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Messi scored his 19th, 20th and 21st goals in this fixture as Barca twice battled from behind to close the gap at the top of La Liga to just a point.
The Argentinian was the creator of his side’s first goal, playing in Andres Iniesta to hammer home after just seven minutes.
Karim Benzema then levelled and gave his side the lead with quick-fire goals and Cristiano Ronaldo scored a penalty but Messi turned the game on its head with a hat-trick.
Barca knew they had to win here to remain within touching distance of leaders Madrid, who could have moved seven points clear at the summit with victory.
And Gerardo Martino’s...
- 3/24/2014
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Alberto Saiz/AP/Press Association Images
A brace from Cristiano Ronaldo helped Real Madrid secure a 3-1 victory on the night and a huge 9-2 aggregate scoreline in their favour, at the expense of Schalke.
Ronaldo opened the scoring after 21 minutes and hit his second of the night after the interval, which Alvaro Morata then added to moments later. Earlier, Tim Hoogland had equalised for the Germans with a curling effort that was helped on it’s way by a big deflection.
Real Madrid were far less dominant than they were in the first leg but they could afford to be with a 6-1 scoreline already in the bag, though they still took the lead twenty-one minutes into the match when Cristiano Ronaldo converted substitute Gareth Bale’s low delivery.
The Welshman had been elected to sit on the bench for the beginning of the match, with this weekends huge El Clasico match in mind,...
A brace from Cristiano Ronaldo helped Real Madrid secure a 3-1 victory on the night and a huge 9-2 aggregate scoreline in their favour, at the expense of Schalke.
Ronaldo opened the scoring after 21 minutes and hit his second of the night after the interval, which Alvaro Morata then added to moments later. Earlier, Tim Hoogland had equalised for the Germans with a curling effort that was helped on it’s way by a big deflection.
Real Madrid were far less dominant than they were in the first leg but they could afford to be with a 6-1 scoreline already in the bag, though they still took the lead twenty-one minutes into the match when Cristiano Ronaldo converted substitute Gareth Bale’s low delivery.
The Welshman had been elected to sit on the bench for the beginning of the match, with this weekends huge El Clasico match in mind,...
- 3/19/2014
- by Josh Challies
- Obsessed with Film
Andres Kudacki/AP/Press Association Images
Real Madrid gave Schalke a footballing lesson in Germany this season as they blew away their opponents with a 5-0 victory, giving them a superb cushion to take back to the Bernabeu for the second-leg.
Karim Benzema opened the scoring after a well worked move before Gareth Bale doubled the Spaniards advantage with a brilliant individual effort. Ronaldo marked his return to the team with a goal six minutes after the restart, with Benzema getting his second of the night shortly afterwards.
Bale then secured a brace of his own with an easy finish, while Ronaldo scored his second late on. Klass Jan Huntelaar scored a consolation goal in stoppage time with a brilliantly executed volley.
Real Madrid opened the scoring in the twelfth minute with their first chance of the match. Gareth Bale linked up with Cristiano Ronaldo, who fed the ball through to Karim Benzema.
Real Madrid gave Schalke a footballing lesson in Germany this season as they blew away their opponents with a 5-0 victory, giving them a superb cushion to take back to the Bernabeu for the second-leg.
Karim Benzema opened the scoring after a well worked move before Gareth Bale doubled the Spaniards advantage with a brilliant individual effort. Ronaldo marked his return to the team with a goal six minutes after the restart, with Benzema getting his second of the night shortly afterwards.
Bale then secured a brace of his own with an easy finish, while Ronaldo scored his second late on. Klass Jan Huntelaar scored a consolation goal in stoppage time with a brilliantly executed volley.
Real Madrid opened the scoring in the twelfth minute with their first chance of the match. Gareth Bale linked up with Cristiano Ronaldo, who fed the ball through to Karim Benzema.
- 2/26/2014
- by Josh Challies
- Obsessed with Film
Michel Euler/AP/Press Association Images
Have you ever wondered what the FIFPro XI might have looked like had it been based on stats alone? Players like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo had long been ensured of their place in the team which was voted for by International captains, managers and media alike. Messi was joined by team-mates Xavi, Iniesta and Dani Alves after Barcelona won the Spanish League at a canter. Manuel Neuer was, in many’s opinion, deservedly the man between the sticks after helping his Bayern side to the first treble won by a German team, along with Philipp Lahm and Franck Ribery, and the team was completed by Real Madrid’s Sergio Ramos and Psg men, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva. But would they retain that place if it was based purely on stats so far this season?
Could a mid-table La Liga player sneak his way into the mix?...
Have you ever wondered what the FIFPro XI might have looked like had it been based on stats alone? Players like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo had long been ensured of their place in the team which was voted for by International captains, managers and media alike. Messi was joined by team-mates Xavi, Iniesta and Dani Alves after Barcelona won the Spanish League at a canter. Manuel Neuer was, in many’s opinion, deservedly the man between the sticks after helping his Bayern side to the first treble won by a German team, along with Philipp Lahm and Franck Ribery, and the team was completed by Real Madrid’s Sergio Ramos and Psg men, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva. But would they retain that place if it was based purely on stats so far this season?
Could a mid-table La Liga player sneak his way into the mix?...
- 1/28/2014
- by Joshua Jones
- Obsessed with Film
Manu Fernandez/AP/Press Association Images
Amongst all the end of year awards announced in the last week, FIFPro have selected their team of the year for 2013 and it is: Manuel Neuer; Dani Alves, Thiago Silva, Sergio Ramos, Philipp Lahm; Andres Iniesta, Xavi, Franck Ribery; Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Naturally the reaction in the British press has been to question the lack of Premier League players in the team, but that is just a reflection of the poor performance of English teams in the Champions League compared to previous years.
What is more noteworthy, though, is that the selection reflects an accepted wisdom of previous years with regard to the dominance of La Liga and Spain’s Golden Generation. In a year in which Barcelona were thoroughly outplayed by Bayern Munich across two legs in the Champions League and Spain well beaten in the Confederations Cup Final, should...
Amongst all the end of year awards announced in the last week, FIFPro have selected their team of the year for 2013 and it is: Manuel Neuer; Dani Alves, Thiago Silva, Sergio Ramos, Philipp Lahm; Andres Iniesta, Xavi, Franck Ribery; Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Naturally the reaction in the British press has been to question the lack of Premier League players in the team, but that is just a reflection of the poor performance of English teams in the Champions League compared to previous years.
What is more noteworthy, though, is that the selection reflects an accepted wisdom of previous years with regard to the dominance of La Liga and Spain’s Golden Generation. In a year in which Barcelona were thoroughly outplayed by Bayern Munich across two legs in the Champions League and Spain well beaten in the Confederations Cup Final, should...
- 1/22/2014
- by Jack Gann
- Obsessed with Film
With sixteen Real Madrid players away on international duty this week, Madridistas still had a lot to look forward to as La Liga took a break for the final round of World Cup Qualifying games. Real Madrid’s playing staff has been spread far and wide and have been competing on three continents, for eight different teams.
The team which called-up the most Real Madrid players was, of course, Spain. Both Alvaro Arbeloa and Sergio Ramos started and finished the game as Spain consolidated their position at the top of World Cup Qualifying Group I with a 2-1 win over Belarus, although neither Madrid defender could prevent Belarus grabbing a late consolation goal to spoil to Spaniards’ clean sheet. Iker Casillas was left on the bench for Spain owing to his status as his club’s number two goalkeeper and Isco was an unused sub as del Bosque chose to...
The team which called-up the most Real Madrid players was, of course, Spain. Both Alvaro Arbeloa and Sergio Ramos started and finished the game as Spain consolidated their position at the top of World Cup Qualifying Group I with a 2-1 win over Belarus, although neither Madrid defender could prevent Belarus grabbing a late consolation goal to spoil to Spaniards’ clean sheet. Iker Casillas was left on the bench for Spain owing to his status as his club’s number two goalkeeper and Isco was an unused sub as del Bosque chose to...
- 10/12/2013
- by Zak Forster
- Obsessed with Film
With the international break looming and decisive games ahead for many European teams, match day 8 kicked off in La Liga with the usual showing of world class talent and plenty of goals.
On Friday night, Villarreal continued their extremely impressive start to the season and it now looks to be a promising campaign for the Yellow Submarines.Their 3-0 victory over Granada came courtesy of goals from Bruno, Dos Santos and Pina and helped them to remain in the Champions League places, just 2 points behind Real Madrid.
The other game on Friday night saw mid-table Malaga fall to a 1-0 defeat at home against struggling Osasuna, with Riera’s goal in the 24th minute snatching a valuable 3 points for the visitors, lifting them to 18th in the league.
Saturday’s action kicked off with Elche securing their second win of the campaign with a 2-1 victory over Espanyol. Coro’s brace for the hosts,...
On Friday night, Villarreal continued their extremely impressive start to the season and it now looks to be a promising campaign for the Yellow Submarines.Their 3-0 victory over Granada came courtesy of goals from Bruno, Dos Santos and Pina and helped them to remain in the Champions League places, just 2 points behind Real Madrid.
The other game on Friday night saw mid-table Malaga fall to a 1-0 defeat at home against struggling Osasuna, with Riera’s goal in the 24th minute snatching a valuable 3 points for the visitors, lifting them to 18th in the league.
Saturday’s action kicked off with Elche securing their second win of the campaign with a 2-1 victory over Espanyol. Coro’s brace for the hosts,...
- 10/7/2013
- by Josh Challies
- Obsessed with Film
© Steve Harris
Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo netted a hat trick as Real Madrid started their Champions League campaign with an emphatic 6-1 victory. Madrid ‘keeper Iker Casillas was recalled to the side, and made a good save early on from a long-range drive by Burak Yilmaz. However, his run out was cut short after being elbowed in the ribs early on. Diego Lopez replaced him after 16 minutes. It took the Spaniards half an hour to break the deadlock, with midfielder Isco cooly slotting home from inside the area. Karim Benzema doubled their advantage after the break with a side-footed effort, after being put through one on one with the ‘keeper. Cristiano Ronaldo made it 3-0 with a simple tap-in from the 6-yard box, after good work on the right-hand side from Angel Di Maria, and Galatasaray failing to clear their lines. Minutes later, he grabbed a brace after a...
Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo netted a hat trick as Real Madrid started their Champions League campaign with an emphatic 6-1 victory. Madrid ‘keeper Iker Casillas was recalled to the side, and made a good save early on from a long-range drive by Burak Yilmaz. However, his run out was cut short after being elbowed in the ribs early on. Diego Lopez replaced him after 16 minutes. It took the Spaniards half an hour to break the deadlock, with midfielder Isco cooly slotting home from inside the area. Karim Benzema doubled their advantage after the break with a side-footed effort, after being put through one on one with the ‘keeper. Cristiano Ronaldo made it 3-0 with a simple tap-in from the 6-yard box, after good work on the right-hand side from Angel Di Maria, and Galatasaray failing to clear their lines. Minutes later, he grabbed a brace after a...
- 9/18/2013
- by Crip Cooke
- Obsessed with Film
Real Madrid continued their perfect start to the season, and simultaneously ended Athletic Bilbao’s, with a 3-1 victory at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Isco continued his brilliant start in Madrid colours with a brace, taking his tally to four goals in 3 La Liga games. Christiano Ronaldo grabbed his first goal of the season and subsequently took his tally to 202 goals in 202 games for the Spanish giants.
Ibai Gomez scored a consolation goal for the Basque side but it was going to be Real’s day, as they prepared for the imminent arrival of Gareth Bale.
The early kick-off, introduced to help promote La Liga in the Asian market, brought about a slow and sluggish start to the game, with only brief glimpses of energy being shown from each side.
On the 23rd minute mark Ronaldo took the game by the scruff of its neck and surged forward, firing a shot into the side netting.
Isco continued his brilliant start in Madrid colours with a brace, taking his tally to four goals in 3 La Liga games. Christiano Ronaldo grabbed his first goal of the season and subsequently took his tally to 202 goals in 202 games for the Spanish giants.
Ibai Gomez scored a consolation goal for the Basque side but it was going to be Real’s day, as they prepared for the imminent arrival of Gareth Bale.
The early kick-off, introduced to help promote La Liga in the Asian market, brought about a slow and sluggish start to the game, with only brief glimpses of energy being shown from each side.
On the 23rd minute mark Ronaldo took the game by the scruff of its neck and surged forward, firing a shot into the side netting.
- 9/2/2013
- by Josh Challies
- Obsessed with Film
Real Madrid have ramped up their pursuit of Tottenham winger Gareth Bale by reserving their No.11 shirt for him, according to the Mirror.
The Pfa Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year is set to earn a fortune after trademarking his unique goal celebration known as the ‘Eleven Of Hearts’ and the Spanish giants, who are already describing Bale as ‘The Eleventh Galactico’, will allow him to continue his money-spinning ploy at the Bernabeu next season.
The flying Welshman is set to net over £10 million-per-year in endorsements from the celebration alone and has been linked with a huge £85 million move to the Spanish capital this summer.
Real’s No.11 shirt is currently vacant, as it was last worn by defender Ricardo Carvalho, who recently completed a transfer to Monaco.
Reserving the shirt number for the 23-year old is viewed as just the latest tactic in a series...
The Pfa Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year is set to earn a fortune after trademarking his unique goal celebration known as the ‘Eleven Of Hearts’ and the Spanish giants, who are already describing Bale as ‘The Eleventh Galactico’, will allow him to continue his money-spinning ploy at the Bernabeu next season.
The flying Welshman is set to net over £10 million-per-year in endorsements from the celebration alone and has been linked with a huge £85 million move to the Spanish capital this summer.
Real’s No.11 shirt is currently vacant, as it was last worn by defender Ricardo Carvalho, who recently completed a transfer to Monaco.
Reserving the shirt number for the 23-year old is viewed as just the latest tactic in a series...
- 6/19/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Venue: Santiago Bernabeu Date: Tuesday 30th April K/o: 19:45 BST Team News
Real Madrid will welcome back Alvaro Arbeloa for tonight’s Champions League semi-final second leg against Borussia Dortmund following the defender’s suspension for the first leg last week.
Pepe is expected to drop to the bench, meaning Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane will partner each other at center back.
Angel Di Maria will return after the birth of his daughter limited him to the substitutes bench in Germany last week while Cristiano Ronaldo has overcome a minor thigh injury.
Gonzalo Higuain is likely to join the Portuguese’ in attack and get the nod ahead of Karim Benzema.
Borussia Dortmund manager Jurgen Klopp isn’t expected to make any changes to last week’s starting XI.
Lukasz Piszczek has shirked off a groin problem and is likely to re-join Neven Subotic, Mats Hummels and Marcel Schmelzer in defence.
Real Madrid will welcome back Alvaro Arbeloa for tonight’s Champions League semi-final second leg against Borussia Dortmund following the defender’s suspension for the first leg last week.
Pepe is expected to drop to the bench, meaning Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane will partner each other at center back.
Angel Di Maria will return after the birth of his daughter limited him to the substitutes bench in Germany last week while Cristiano Ronaldo has overcome a minor thigh injury.
Gonzalo Higuain is likely to join the Portuguese’ in attack and get the nod ahead of Karim Benzema.
Borussia Dortmund manager Jurgen Klopp isn’t expected to make any changes to last week’s starting XI.
Lukasz Piszczek has shirked off a groin problem and is likely to re-join Neven Subotic, Mats Hummels and Marcel Schmelzer in defence.
- 4/30/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Date: Wednesday, 24th April Venue: Signal Iduna Park K/o: 19:45 Team News
Borussia Dortmund have the advantage of being able to name a full strength lineup for tonight’s visit of Real Madrid to Signal Iduna Park for the first leg of their Champions League semi-final.
The spotlight will be shining firmly on Mario Gotze tonight, after the midfielder agreed to join rivals Bayern Munich yesterday.
Sven Bender and Ilkay Gundogan will likely start ahead of former Real Madrid midfielder Nuri Sahin and club captain Sebastian Kehl in the middle of the park, with Jakub Blaszczykowski also preferred to Kevin Grosskreutz on the wing.
Real Madrid have a few injury concerns ahead of tonight’s clash.
Marcelo is a doubt with a hamstring injury, meaning Fabio Coentrao will start at left back. Luka Modric and Karim Benzema are also nursing minor injuries and are both doubts.
Alvaro Arbeloa is suspended,...
Borussia Dortmund have the advantage of being able to name a full strength lineup for tonight’s visit of Real Madrid to Signal Iduna Park for the first leg of their Champions League semi-final.
The spotlight will be shining firmly on Mario Gotze tonight, after the midfielder agreed to join rivals Bayern Munich yesterday.
Sven Bender and Ilkay Gundogan will likely start ahead of former Real Madrid midfielder Nuri Sahin and club captain Sebastian Kehl in the middle of the park, with Jakub Blaszczykowski also preferred to Kevin Grosskreutz on the wing.
Real Madrid have a few injury concerns ahead of tonight’s clash.
Marcelo is a doubt with a hamstring injury, meaning Fabio Coentrao will start at left back. Luka Modric and Karim Benzema are also nursing minor injuries and are both doubts.
Alvaro Arbeloa is suspended,...
- 4/24/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Venue: Türk Telekom Arena Date: Tuesday, 9th April K/o: 7:45 GMT Team News
If Galatasaray faced a mountain to climb in overturning a 3-0 deficit in the second leg of tonight’s Champions League quarter final, their mission has been made all the more difficult by the suspension to leading goalscorer Burak Yilmaz.
The Turk will miss out tonight having picked up a yellow card in the first leg, while centre-back Dany Nounkeu is similarly unavailable.
Left-back Albert Riera and vice-captain and attacking midfielder Selcuk Inan do however return to the fold having been rested for the 3-1 victory over Mersin Iy at the weekend.
Real Madrid will have to make do without suspended duo Sergio Ramos and Xabi Alonso, who will be replaced by Raphael Varane and Luka Modric respectively.
Iker Casillas has returned from injury but the goalkeeper looks set to miss out to Diego Lopez, who...
If Galatasaray faced a mountain to climb in overturning a 3-0 deficit in the second leg of tonight’s Champions League quarter final, their mission has been made all the more difficult by the suspension to leading goalscorer Burak Yilmaz.
The Turk will miss out tonight having picked up a yellow card in the first leg, while centre-back Dany Nounkeu is similarly unavailable.
Left-back Albert Riera and vice-captain and attacking midfielder Selcuk Inan do however return to the fold having been rested for the 3-1 victory over Mersin Iy at the weekend.
Real Madrid will have to make do without suspended duo Sergio Ramos and Xabi Alonso, who will be replaced by Raphael Varane and Luka Modric respectively.
Iker Casillas has returned from injury but the goalkeeper looks set to miss out to Diego Lopez, who...
- 4/9/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Watch France vs Spain in the World Cup Qualifier Live with the stream below;
Venue: Stade de France Date: Tuesday, 26th March K/o: 8pm GMT Match Preview
France take on Spain tonight at the Stade de France in what is guaranteed to be the most mouth-watering World Cup qualifying clash of the evening, as top take on second in Group I, and we will have all the action in our special live stream starting from 8pm GMT.
Didier Deschamps’ Les Bleus currently top the group with an impressive 10 points from a possible 12, while Vicente Del Bosque’s La Roja trail in second place with 8.
A win then for the reigning World and European Champions would see them leapfrog their rivals, while a win for the home side would see them stretch the gap at the top to an imperious 5 points with just three games remaining.
With just one team qualifying automatically from each group,...
Venue: Stade de France Date: Tuesday, 26th March K/o: 8pm GMT Match Preview
France take on Spain tonight at the Stade de France in what is guaranteed to be the most mouth-watering World Cup qualifying clash of the evening, as top take on second in Group I, and we will have all the action in our special live stream starting from 8pm GMT.
Didier Deschamps’ Les Bleus currently top the group with an impressive 10 points from a possible 12, while Vicente Del Bosque’s La Roja trail in second place with 8.
A win then for the reigning World and European Champions would see them leapfrog their rivals, while a win for the home side would see them stretch the gap at the top to an imperious 5 points with just three games remaining.
With just one team qualifying automatically from each group,...
- 3/26/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Manchester United’s Champions League dream is over following a controversial 2-1 defeat to reigning Spanish champions Real Madrid at Old Trafford last night.
With the tie locked at 1-1 following the draw at the Santiago Bernabeu last month, the hosts gained the upper hand when defender Sergio Ramos prodded into his own goal moments after half time.
However, referee Cuneyt Cakir issued Nani a straight red card following a collision with Alvaro Arbeloa, which transformed the tie as first Luka Modric, and then Cristiano Ronaldo scored two quick-fire goals to knock United out.
Jose Mourinho’s side displayed none of the panache which saw them defeat rivals Barcelona back-to-back the week before and for large swathes of the game were a subdued force while United were also able to quieten Ronaldo, the former Red Devil who was making only his first appearance at the Theatre of Dreams since his world-record-smashing £80 million move to Madrid.
With the tie locked at 1-1 following the draw at the Santiago Bernabeu last month, the hosts gained the upper hand when defender Sergio Ramos prodded into his own goal moments after half time.
However, referee Cuneyt Cakir issued Nani a straight red card following a collision with Alvaro Arbeloa, which transformed the tie as first Luka Modric, and then Cristiano Ronaldo scored two quick-fire goals to knock United out.
Jose Mourinho’s side displayed none of the panache which saw them defeat rivals Barcelona back-to-back the week before and for large swathes of the game were a subdued force while United were also able to quieten Ronaldo, the former Red Devil who was making only his first appearance at the Theatre of Dreams since his world-record-smashing £80 million move to Madrid.
- 3/6/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Venue: Old Trafford K/o: 19:45 GMT
The squads have officially been announced ahead of Manchester United’s titanic clash with reigning Spanish champions Real Madrid prior to tonight’s last-16 Champions League clash, and there is plenty to talk about.
The big news is the omission of Wayne Rooney from Manchester United’s starting XI. The England international, who has scored 14 times in all competitions this season, drops to the bench in favour of Robin van Persie, who will operate as a loan striker with Nani, Welbeck and Giggs in support from midfield.
The latter makes his 1,000th senior appearance for club and country tonight, an interesting footnote to what is already a huge script. There is no Phil Jones, who misses out with injury.
As expected, Real Madrid have started former Red Devil Cristiano Ronaldo up front alongside Gonzalo Higuain. That Jose Mourinho has opted for two strikers...
The squads have officially been announced ahead of Manchester United’s titanic clash with reigning Spanish champions Real Madrid prior to tonight’s last-16 Champions League clash, and there is plenty to talk about.
The big news is the omission of Wayne Rooney from Manchester United’s starting XI. The England international, who has scored 14 times in all competitions this season, drops to the bench in favour of Robin van Persie, who will operate as a loan striker with Nani, Welbeck and Giggs in support from midfield.
The latter makes his 1,000th senior appearance for club and country tonight, an interesting footnote to what is already a huge script. There is no Phil Jones, who misses out with injury.
As expected, Real Madrid have started former Red Devil Cristiano Ronaldo up front alongside Gonzalo Higuain. That Jose Mourinho has opted for two strikers...
- 3/5/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
So here we are, the culmination of one of the most eagerly anticipated games in football and also the return of United’s legendary No.7 to Old Trafford.
After a nervy first leg at the Bernabeu United managed to hang on for a 1-1 draw after a Danny Welbeck first half header gave them a unlikely lead but Ronaldo hit back soon after leaving the game hanging in the balance for the second leg in Manchester on March 5th.
5. Ramos – Dirty Tactics
Sergio Ramos is considered to be one of the best defenders in world football, he’s a player who’s won everything there is to win for club and country.
In the first leg in Madrid he infuriated the reds with his overreacting and also an elbow to the face of Phil Jones which went unpunished and also his reaction to being hit in the face by Van...
After a nervy first leg at the Bernabeu United managed to hang on for a 1-1 draw after a Danny Welbeck first half header gave them a unlikely lead but Ronaldo hit back soon after leaving the game hanging in the balance for the second leg in Manchester on March 5th.
5. Ramos – Dirty Tactics
Sergio Ramos is considered to be one of the best defenders in world football, he’s a player who’s won everything there is to win for club and country.
In the first leg in Madrid he infuriated the reds with his overreacting and also an elbow to the face of Phil Jones which went unpunished and also his reaction to being hit in the face by Van...
- 3/5/2013
- by Martin Bromley
- Obsessed with Film
Date: Saturday, 2nd March Venue: Santiago Bernabeu Team News
Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho is expected to rest the majority of his star-studded side for this La Liga clash with Barcelona as he prepares for next Tuesday’s Champions League last-16 away encounter with Manchester United.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Angel Di Maria, Sergio Ramos, Raphael Varane, Fabio Coentrao, Xabi Alonso, Sami Khedira and Mesut Ozil are all unlikely to start, while Kaka could make only his eleventh appearance in the league this season.
Barcelona are expected to rest Xavi and Cesc Fabregas, who have hamstring complaints, though Lionel Messi should start having recovered from a fever that kept him out of training on Wednesday.
Stand-in manager Jordi Roura otherwise has a fully fit squad to choose from.
Match Preview
The doom mongers were out in full force this week as Barcelona suffered their second defeat in six days against arch-rivals Real...
Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho is expected to rest the majority of his star-studded side for this La Liga clash with Barcelona as he prepares for next Tuesday’s Champions League last-16 away encounter with Manchester United.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Angel Di Maria, Sergio Ramos, Raphael Varane, Fabio Coentrao, Xabi Alonso, Sami Khedira and Mesut Ozil are all unlikely to start, while Kaka could make only his eleventh appearance in the league this season.
Barcelona are expected to rest Xavi and Cesc Fabregas, who have hamstring complaints, though Lionel Messi should start having recovered from a fever that kept him out of training on Wednesday.
Stand-in manager Jordi Roura otherwise has a fully fit squad to choose from.
Match Preview
The doom mongers were out in full force this week as Barcelona suffered their second defeat in six days against arch-rivals Real...
- 3/2/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
The world is waiting. Manchester United will face Real Madrid on Wednesday night at the Bernabeu, and some of the best players in the world will be on show, with Cristiano Ronaldo and Robin van Persie seen as the key men for each team.
Manchester United are currently sitting top of the English Premier League, 12 points clear of close rivals and current champions Manchester City, whilst the Spanish giants are sitting third, 16 points adrift of Barcelona. League form and statistics are crucial in analysing games, but when it’s a European clash like this anything can happen.
With players such as Wayne Rooney, Karim Benzema, Antonio Valencia, Xabi Alonso, Michael Carrick, Angel Di Maria, Nemanji Vidic, and Sergio Ramos all set to be included in some way, the game is going to deliver something special.
The last time these two teams met in a competitive fixture was back in 2003 where...
Manchester United are currently sitting top of the English Premier League, 12 points clear of close rivals and current champions Manchester City, whilst the Spanish giants are sitting third, 16 points adrift of Barcelona. League form and statistics are crucial in analysing games, but when it’s a European clash like this anything can happen.
With players such as Wayne Rooney, Karim Benzema, Antonio Valencia, Xabi Alonso, Michael Carrick, Angel Di Maria, Nemanji Vidic, and Sergio Ramos all set to be included in some way, the game is going to deliver something special.
The last time these two teams met in a competitive fixture was back in 2003 where...
- 2/11/2013
- by Matt Robinson
- Obsessed with Film
As the clock counts down to arguably the biggest game of the football year so far, especially for Manchester United fans, speculation is mounting over who we will see taking to the pitch for United’s Champions League clash with Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid. The size of the game isn’t up for debate – this is probably the biggest Champions League game of the season, aside from the final, and for neutral fans it is a shame the two didn’t meet at that slightly grander stage.
And that team news speculation has already started, with Spanish newspaper Marca claiming (via MailOnline) that they have the team that Mourinho will send out at the Bernabeu to take on Manchester United on Wednesday night.
It’s hardly a surprise to see that Cristiano Ronaldo would lead the attacking line in this line-up, as the Portuguese former United player is in...
And that team news speculation has already started, with Spanish newspaper Marca claiming (via MailOnline) that they have the team that Mourinho will send out at the Bernabeu to take on Manchester United on Wednesday night.
It’s hardly a surprise to see that Cristiano Ronaldo would lead the attacking line in this line-up, as the Portuguese former United player is in...
- 2/11/2013
- by Simon Gallagher
- Obsessed with Film
Venue: Santiago Bernabeu Date: Wednesday, 30th January K/o: 3:00pm Est/10pm GMT Team News
Real Madrid are without key defenders Sergio Ramos and Fabio Coentrao for the first leg of this Copa Del Rey encounter, with the duo out through suspension.
Angel di Maria is also out, along with center-back Pepe and captain Iker Casillas.
Barcelona have no injury concerns and Tito Vilanova will have a full squad to choose from.
Match Preview
Barcelona travel to the Bernabeu tonight for the first-leg of this Copa Del Rey encounter, and as with any modern day El Classico, this barnstormer will see two of the world’s finest players go head to head. Lionel Messi has been in fine form following a record-breaking year in 2012 and scored four past Osasuna in the league and has netted in the last 16 games he has started.
Ronaldo meanwhile has scored two hat-tricks this...
Real Madrid are without key defenders Sergio Ramos and Fabio Coentrao for the first leg of this Copa Del Rey encounter, with the duo out through suspension.
Angel di Maria is also out, along with center-back Pepe and captain Iker Casillas.
Barcelona have no injury concerns and Tito Vilanova will have a full squad to choose from.
Match Preview
Barcelona travel to the Bernabeu tonight for the first-leg of this Copa Del Rey encounter, and as with any modern day El Classico, this barnstormer will see two of the world’s finest players go head to head. Lionel Messi has been in fine form following a record-breaking year in 2012 and scored four past Osasuna in the league and has netted in the last 16 games he has started.
Ronaldo meanwhile has scored two hat-tricks this...
- 1/30/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Real Madrid are plotting a bid for Chelsea’s Petr Cech, according to the Daily Star.
The Spanish Champions are on the look-out for a new No.1 with uncertainty surrounding the future of Iker Casillas, who has been left on the bench at the Bernabeu for a number of games this season.
It is thought that Casillas’ relationship with manager Jose Mourinho has deteriorated this season and Chelsea shot-stopper Cech is considered the idea candidate to replace the Spaniard in goal.
Cassilas, a World Cup winner, is set to miss his Madrid’s tie with Manchester United in the Champions League next month with a fractured hand, and the growing speculation that he could quit over his poor relationship with Mourinho has prompted club officials to step up their pursuits for a replacement.
Cech signed a new four-year deal with Chelsea just last May however, tying him with the club...
The Spanish Champions are on the look-out for a new No.1 with uncertainty surrounding the future of Iker Casillas, who has been left on the bench at the Bernabeu for a number of games this season.
It is thought that Casillas’ relationship with manager Jose Mourinho has deteriorated this season and Chelsea shot-stopper Cech is considered the idea candidate to replace the Spaniard in goal.
Cassilas, a World Cup winner, is set to miss his Madrid’s tie with Manchester United in the Champions League next month with a fractured hand, and the growing speculation that he could quit over his poor relationship with Mourinho has prompted club officials to step up their pursuits for a replacement.
Cech signed a new four-year deal with Chelsea just last May however, tying him with the club...
- 1/25/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Real Madrid duo Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos have denied that they and other team-mates demanded transfers unless manager Jose Mourinho was sacked, according to the BBC.
Spanish newspaper Marca reported that goalkeeper Casillas and defender Ramos issued the ultimatum during a meeting with president Florentino Perez.
But the duo have taken the move to reject speculation by issuing a joint statement.
“We want to show our support for the character of our coach Jose Mourinho.”
Meanwhile, Perez branded the reports an attempt to “destabilise the club”.
But Jose Mourinho hasn’t been in Casillas’ good books lately when he made the decision to drop the goalkeeper for successive league games whilst the Portuguese is also reported to have had heated arguments with Ramos.
The full statement by Casillas and Ramos posted on Real Madrid’s website read:
“The two captains of Real Madrid want to communicate the following: That...
Spanish newspaper Marca reported that goalkeeper Casillas and defender Ramos issued the ultimatum during a meeting with president Florentino Perez.
But the duo have taken the move to reject speculation by issuing a joint statement.
“We want to show our support for the character of our coach Jose Mourinho.”
Meanwhile, Perez branded the reports an attempt to “destabilise the club”.
But Jose Mourinho hasn’t been in Casillas’ good books lately when he made the decision to drop the goalkeeper for successive league games whilst the Portuguese is also reported to have had heated arguments with Ramos.
The full statement by Casillas and Ramos posted on Real Madrid’s website read:
“The two captains of Real Madrid want to communicate the following: That...
- 1/25/2013
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Barcelona manager Tito Vilanova “could mix work with treatment” according to a statement by The Club’s Medical Services, dispelling fears he may have to resign.
Earlier in the day, we reported that the 44 year old had resigned in the wake of the news that a regression of a cancerous tumour had relapsed a fight with cancer. Vilanova first battled the illness in November last year and will undergo surgery this week.
However, the statement, released through the clubs medical services, offers hope he may be able to resume his career:
“An extension of the pathology has been detected in [Vilanova’s] parotid gland. The manager requires surgery which he will undergo this Thursday. He is expected to remain in hospital for three to four days.
“After the surgery, Francesc ‘Tito’ Vilanova will undergo chemotherapy and rediation treatment for approximately six weeks. During this time, and depending on how well he recovers,...
Earlier in the day, we reported that the 44 year old had resigned in the wake of the news that a regression of a cancerous tumour had relapsed a fight with cancer. Vilanova first battled the illness in November last year and will undergo surgery this week.
However, the statement, released through the clubs medical services, offers hope he may be able to resume his career:
“An extension of the pathology has been detected in [Vilanova’s] parotid gland. The manager requires surgery which he will undergo this Thursday. He is expected to remain in hospital for three to four days.
“After the surgery, Francesc ‘Tito’ Vilanova will undergo chemotherapy and rediation treatment for approximately six weeks. During this time, and depending on how well he recovers,...
- 12/19/2012
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Spain claimed their third successive major international title after winning Euro 2012 with a typically dominant performance over Italy in Kiev.
David Silva scored the first goal after only 14 minutes before Jordi Alba got forward from left-back to slot home the second in the first half.
Italy went down to 10 men in the second period when they lost Thiago Motta to injury and Spain took full control. First Fernando Torres and then Juan Mata scored goals to finish the match.
The Spanish started with their usual system of six midfielders, including the ever-consistent Sergio Busquets and Xabi Alonso. Italian manager Cesare Prandelli opted to start Mario Balotelli and Antonio Cassano in the hope that they could conjure up a similar performance to the one they gave against Germany.
Spain had the best of the opening exchanges, that mainly arrived via the feet of the outstanding Xavi. After 10 minutes the Barcelona play-maker...
David Silva scored the first goal after only 14 minutes before Jordi Alba got forward from left-back to slot home the second in the first half.
Italy went down to 10 men in the second period when they lost Thiago Motta to injury and Spain took full control. First Fernando Torres and then Juan Mata scored goals to finish the match.
The Spanish started with their usual system of six midfielders, including the ever-consistent Sergio Busquets and Xabi Alonso. Italian manager Cesare Prandelli opted to start Mario Balotelli and Antonio Cassano in the hope that they could conjure up a similar performance to the one they gave against Germany.
Spain had the best of the opening exchanges, that mainly arrived via the feet of the outstanding Xavi. After 10 minutes the Barcelona play-maker...
- 7/2/2012
- by Chris Deacon
- Obsessed with Film
Record breakers Spain have been crowned European Champions for the third time in their history and for the second time in a row after a dominating victory in the Euro 2012 final.
They beat Italy 4-0 with goals from David Silva, Jordi Alba and Fernando Torres, before Juan Mata added gloss to proceedings late on. Italy though had to play the final twenty minutes with ten men after using all their substitutions before Motta, a substitute himself, was forced off with injury and the final scoreline is harsh on Italy who in fact only had 2% less overall possession by full time.
Despite this, Spain gave the same lethal display that has seen them go 12 European Championship matches unbeaten – a new record. In fact, the night was full of them. Fernando Torres’ goal means he is the first player to score in two European finals and coach Vincente Del Bosque equalled West...
They beat Italy 4-0 with goals from David Silva, Jordi Alba and Fernando Torres, before Juan Mata added gloss to proceedings late on. Italy though had to play the final twenty minutes with ten men after using all their substitutions before Motta, a substitute himself, was forced off with injury and the final scoreline is harsh on Italy who in fact only had 2% less overall possession by full time.
Despite this, Spain gave the same lethal display that has seen them go 12 European Championship matches unbeaten – a new record. In fact, the night was full of them. Fernando Torres’ goal means he is the first player to score in two European finals and coach Vincente Del Bosque equalled West...
- 7/1/2012
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Spain could make history by becoming the only international team to win three major titles in a row when they meet Italy in the Euro 2012 Final on Sunday.
This is a look back at their journey to the Final and what to expect from the game at the Olympic Stadium in Kiev.
Their tournament began as it will finish; against Italy.
Vicente del Bosque elected to play without a striker in a 4-6-0 formation that included Cesc Fabregas as a makeshift frontman. His system allowed the six middle men to swap positions frequently, exchanging passes between one another until space opened up for a break away pass through the opposition’s back four.
Italy, playing a 3-5-2, coped well under the pressure and by half time the score remained 0-0. Italian wingers Christian Maggio and Emanuele Giaccherini were immense at falling back to clog up the penalty area...
This is a look back at their journey to the Final and what to expect from the game at the Olympic Stadium in Kiev.
Their tournament began as it will finish; against Italy.
Vicente del Bosque elected to play without a striker in a 4-6-0 formation that included Cesc Fabregas as a makeshift frontman. His system allowed the six middle men to swap positions frequently, exchanging passes between one another until space opened up for a break away pass through the opposition’s back four.
Italy, playing a 3-5-2, coped well under the pressure and by half time the score remained 0-0. Italian wingers Christian Maggio and Emanuele Giaccherini were immense at falling back to clog up the penalty area...
- 7/1/2012
- by Chris Deacon
- Obsessed with Film
Defending European Champions Spain advanced to the Semi-Finals after sweeping aside a lacklustre France team.
Xabi Alonso’s fourteenth and fifteenth international goals on his 100th cap helped Spain go against tradition and beat France in the knock-out stages of a major tournament.
The Real Madrid midfielder headed home the first goal after 19 minutes before scoring a late penalty following Anthony Reveillere’s clumsy challenge on Pedro Rodriguez.
The Spanish started with the same eleven that opened their campaign against Italy, preferring Cesc Fabregas to Fernando Torres.
After days of unsettled behaviour in the French camp, Laurent Blanc opted to make three changes to try and deal with the fluent Spanish. Mathieu Debuchy was moved to the right wing as Reveillere dropped in behind him at right back. Yohan Cabaye and Florent Malouda were started ahead of Samir Nasri (possible knee injury) and Alou Diarra. While Philippe Mexes was suspended,...
Xabi Alonso’s fourteenth and fifteenth international goals on his 100th cap helped Spain go against tradition and beat France in the knock-out stages of a major tournament.
The Real Madrid midfielder headed home the first goal after 19 minutes before scoring a late penalty following Anthony Reveillere’s clumsy challenge on Pedro Rodriguez.
The Spanish started with the same eleven that opened their campaign against Italy, preferring Cesc Fabregas to Fernando Torres.
After days of unsettled behaviour in the French camp, Laurent Blanc opted to make three changes to try and deal with the fluent Spanish. Mathieu Debuchy was moved to the right wing as Reveillere dropped in behind him at right back. Yohan Cabaye and Florent Malouda were started ahead of Samir Nasri (possible knee injury) and Alou Diarra. While Philippe Mexes was suspended,...
- 6/23/2012
- by Chris Deacon
- Obsessed with Film
As unbelievable as it may sound, Spain haven’t beaten France in major competition for 28 years.
The two sides go toe to toe tonight in the penultimate Euro 2012 quarter final, and Spain will have revenge on their minds having suffered heartache against Les Bleus five times, in the Euro ’84 final, twice in the Euro ’92 qualifiers and the quarter-finals of both Euro 2000 and the 2006 World Cup.
The Spaniards will have to be on top form tonight if they are to see off Laurent Blanc’s men as they aim to inch one step closer to becoming the first team in history to win three major tournaments on the trot, having won the 2010 World Cup and 2008 European Championships.
So, can the La Furia Roja inflict revenge on Les Bleus tonight?
The Defence
France will be without veteran defender Philippe Mexes, who is suspended after picking up his second yellow card of the competition.
The two sides go toe to toe tonight in the penultimate Euro 2012 quarter final, and Spain will have revenge on their minds having suffered heartache against Les Bleus five times, in the Euro ’84 final, twice in the Euro ’92 qualifiers and the quarter-finals of both Euro 2000 and the 2006 World Cup.
The Spaniards will have to be on top form tonight if they are to see off Laurent Blanc’s men as they aim to inch one step closer to becoming the first team in history to win three major tournaments on the trot, having won the 2010 World Cup and 2008 European Championships.
So, can the La Furia Roja inflict revenge on Les Bleus tonight?
The Defence
France will be without veteran defender Philippe Mexes, who is suspended after picking up his second yellow card of the competition.
- 6/23/2012
- by Joseph Dempsey
- Obsessed with Film
Venue: Donbass Arena, Donetsk, Ukraine
Kick-Off: 19:45 BST
Spain and France, two giants of European football, clash in Donetsk on Saturday with La Roja chasing their third consecutive title and Les Bleus hoping to end their reign at the top.
Team News
France will be without suspended centre-back Philippe Mexes after he picked up his second booking in the group stages, Arsenal’s Laurent Koscielny is expected to deputise.
Yohan Cabaye has recovered from a thigh injury that kept him out of the 2-0 defeat to Sweden on Tuesday. Franck Ribery and Samir Nasri are expected to resume their usual positions despite missing some of this week’s training sessions. Nasri had a knee injury while Ribery had blisters but both are expected to play tonight.
Spain have a full squad to choose from and are shaping up to name the same squad from their final group game.
Preview
The...
Kick-Off: 19:45 BST
Spain and France, two giants of European football, clash in Donetsk on Saturday with La Roja chasing their third consecutive title and Les Bleus hoping to end their reign at the top.
Team News
France will be without suspended centre-back Philippe Mexes after he picked up his second booking in the group stages, Arsenal’s Laurent Koscielny is expected to deputise.
Yohan Cabaye has recovered from a thigh injury that kept him out of the 2-0 defeat to Sweden on Tuesday. Franck Ribery and Samir Nasri are expected to resume their usual positions despite missing some of this week’s training sessions. Nasri had a knee injury while Ribery had blisters but both are expected to play tonight.
Spain have a full squad to choose from and are shaping up to name the same squad from their final group game.
Preview
The...
- 6/23/2012
- by Chris Deacon
- Obsessed with Film
Spain left it late to secure their place at the top of Group C as Italy’s win in Poznan saw them into a close second. Jesus Navas scored a neatly crafted goal with two minutes remaining to see Vicente del Bosque’s men safely through to the Quarter-Finals.
The Croats will be left to reflect on a tournament in which they performed admirably; losing to the world champions, drawing with a footballing powerhouse and hammering the Irish.
Slaven Bilic ends his reign in charge of Croatia in the knowledge that his side could have done much better if Ivan Rakitic had managed to send his unmarked header past Iker Casillas with ten minutes left.
Cesc Fabregas had started the opening two games of the tournament but was left out in favour of Fernando Torres in the final fixture of the group. However after a less than convincing performance, the...
The Croats will be left to reflect on a tournament in which they performed admirably; losing to the world champions, drawing with a footballing powerhouse and hammering the Irish.
Slaven Bilic ends his reign in charge of Croatia in the knowledge that his side could have done much better if Ivan Rakitic had managed to send his unmarked header past Iker Casillas with ten minutes left.
Cesc Fabregas had started the opening two games of the tournament but was left out in favour of Fernando Torres in the final fixture of the group. However after a less than convincing performance, the...
- 6/18/2012
- by Chris Deacon
- Obsessed with Film
Venue: Pge Arena, Gdansk, Poland
Kick-Off: 19:45 BST
Croatia and Spain come into this game in the knowledge that a 2-2 draw would carry both sides into the Knock-out rounds. However if the other match, between Italy and Republic of Ireland, ends in a draw or the Irish win then Croatia and Spain are through anyway.
Injury News
Spain’s Sergio Busquets had hurt his foot in the previous match but a scan last week revealed no serious damage and he has been passed fit to play.
Meanwhile, Croatia have doubts about striker Mario Mandzukic who was substituted during the Italy game after he picked up a knock. He will be assessed later today before coach Slaven Bilic names his starting squad.
Preview
The winner of this fixture will progress to the next round, it is as simple as that. Three points would claim top spot in Group C and...
Kick-Off: 19:45 BST
Croatia and Spain come into this game in the knowledge that a 2-2 draw would carry both sides into the Knock-out rounds. However if the other match, between Italy and Republic of Ireland, ends in a draw or the Irish win then Croatia and Spain are through anyway.
Injury News
Spain’s Sergio Busquets had hurt his foot in the previous match but a scan last week revealed no serious damage and he has been passed fit to play.
Meanwhile, Croatia have doubts about striker Mario Mandzukic who was substituted during the Italy game after he picked up a knock. He will be assessed later today before coach Slaven Bilic names his starting squad.
Preview
The winner of this fixture will progress to the next round, it is as simple as that. Three points would claim top spot in Group C and...
- 6/18/2012
- by Chris Deacon
- Obsessed with Film
Venue: Pge Arena, Gdansk, Poland
Kick-Off: 19:45 BST
At the 2002 World Cup, the last major tournament that they qualified for, the Irish were put out by Spain on penalties in the Last 16. After losing 3-1 in their opening game against Croatia, Giovanni Trapattoni’s men know that once again their fate lies with the Spanish.
Injury News
Spain could be forced to play an orthodox striker in tonight’s match, following signs that Cesc Fabregas won’t be able to shake off a thigh injury he picked up against Italy.
Meanwhile, the Republic of Ireland look set to field the same starting eleven as last Sunday.
Defender Richard Dunne was suffering from blisters at training in the week but has recovered well enough to start the match in Gdansk. Shay Given also missed some of the early sessions but is primed to start his second game of the tournament.
Preview
Shay Given,...
Kick-Off: 19:45 BST
At the 2002 World Cup, the last major tournament that they qualified for, the Irish were put out by Spain on penalties in the Last 16. After losing 3-1 in their opening game against Croatia, Giovanni Trapattoni’s men know that once again their fate lies with the Spanish.
Injury News
Spain could be forced to play an orthodox striker in tonight’s match, following signs that Cesc Fabregas won’t be able to shake off a thigh injury he picked up against Italy.
Meanwhile, the Republic of Ireland look set to field the same starting eleven as last Sunday.
Defender Richard Dunne was suffering from blisters at training in the week but has recovered well enough to start the match in Gdansk. Shay Given also missed some of the early sessions but is primed to start his second game of the tournament.
Preview
Shay Given,...
- 6/14/2012
- by Chris Deacon
- Obsessed with Film
There are a number of ways to state the second law of thermodynamics. The scientific community has moved from a slightly misleading definition of entropy as “disorder” within a thermodynamic system toward a description of how heat or energy moves toward equilibrium within such a system.
Physicists take care to define thermodynamic systems with great car when dealing with physical or natural elements of the universe. The reality is that these laws take the form of tightly-constructed mathematical expressions. Often it is dangerous to apply these concepts to human constructs, to move from nature to culture, but taken metaphorically, the idea has some explanatory power.
Consider the case of Sunday’s thrilling draw between Spain and Italy. As the team sheets were announced, a certain subset of tactical bloggers quivered with anticipation. Italy announced a back three! Spain would play without a striker!
It was the second of these two...
Physicists take care to define thermodynamic systems with great car when dealing with physical or natural elements of the universe. The reality is that these laws take the form of tightly-constructed mathematical expressions. Often it is dangerous to apply these concepts to human constructs, to move from nature to culture, but taken metaphorically, the idea has some explanatory power.
Consider the case of Sunday’s thrilling draw between Spain and Italy. As the team sheets were announced, a certain subset of tactical bloggers quivered with anticipation. Italy announced a back three! Spain would play without a striker!
It was the second of these two...
- 6/12/2012
- by Alex Campolo
- Celebsology
Defending European Champions Spain opened their tournament with a draw against former World Champions Italy.
Antonio Di Natale scored with just over an hour gone, receiving a through ball from Andrea Pirlo before beating Iker Casillas. The lead only lasted a couple of minutes as Cesc Fabregas levelled for La Roja.
Spanish manager Vicente del Bosque opted to start with six midfielders in a 4-3-3 formation, Fabregas playing as the central striker. While the Italians placed Danielle De Rossi as a sweeper in a 1-4-3-2 system.
David Silva had the first chance, smashing the ball over the bar from the edge of the box with eight minutes gone. The Azzurri soon responded with a free-kick from Andrea Pirlo that Casillas had to turn around the post.
Pirlo was at the centre of the next Italian attack as well, this time finding Antonio Cassano on the left before...
Antonio Di Natale scored with just over an hour gone, receiving a through ball from Andrea Pirlo before beating Iker Casillas. The lead only lasted a couple of minutes as Cesc Fabregas levelled for La Roja.
Spanish manager Vicente del Bosque opted to start with six midfielders in a 4-3-3 formation, Fabregas playing as the central striker. While the Italians placed Danielle De Rossi as a sweeper in a 1-4-3-2 system.
David Silva had the first chance, smashing the ball over the bar from the edge of the box with eight minutes gone. The Azzurri soon responded with a free-kick from Andrea Pirlo that Casillas had to turn around the post.
Pirlo was at the centre of the next Italian attack as well, this time finding Antonio Cassano on the left before...
- 6/10/2012
- by Chris Deacon
- Obsessed with Film
Venue: Pge Arena, Gdansk, Poland
Kick-Off: 17:00 BST
Defending European and World champions Spain open their tournament against a young Italian side determined to prove that their glory days aren’t behind them.
Injury News
Spain could be without right-back Alvaro Arbeloa as the Real Madrid player tries to recover from a back problem. However, midfielder Cesc Fabregas has been passed fit after a slight hamstring issue.
Sevilla winger Jesus Navas was worried that he might have to be replaced before the opening whistle but the X-ray on his right hand revealed nothing more than severe bruising.
Meanwhile, Italy have also had their pre-Euro problems. Centre-back Andrea Barzagli could miss the opening two games of the tournament and coach Cesare Prandelli has been looking at alternatives in that position. The Azzurri have been working on a 3-5-2 formation in training that wouldn’t require the extra defender.
Preview
Italy...
Kick-Off: 17:00 BST
Defending European and World champions Spain open their tournament against a young Italian side determined to prove that their glory days aren’t behind them.
Injury News
Spain could be without right-back Alvaro Arbeloa as the Real Madrid player tries to recover from a back problem. However, midfielder Cesc Fabregas has been passed fit after a slight hamstring issue.
Sevilla winger Jesus Navas was worried that he might have to be replaced before the opening whistle but the X-ray on his right hand revealed nothing more than severe bruising.
Meanwhile, Italy have also had their pre-Euro problems. Centre-back Andrea Barzagli could miss the opening two games of the tournament and coach Cesare Prandelli has been looking at alternatives in that position. The Azzurri have been working on a 3-5-2 formation in training that wouldn’t require the extra defender.
Preview
Italy...
- 6/10/2012
- by Chris Deacon
- Obsessed with Film
Real Madrid have one hand on the La Liga trophy but they still need to be professional in the run-in and make sure they win two of their last four games to secure the title. They take on Sevilla at the Santiago Bernabeu today, with an earlier than usual 11am (UK time) kick-off time, 12pm Cet, looking to extend their seven-point margin over Barcelona who take on Rayo Vallecano later on tonight.
The match is screened live on Sky Sports. Here’s the team news ahead of the game…
[Updated] – The line-ups are in and Mourinho has made less changes than we expected.
Real Madrid;
Casillas
Arbeloa
Pepe
Sergio Ramos
Marcelo
Xabi Alonso
Granero
Di Maria
Ozil
Ronaldo
Benzam
Subs: Adan, Khedira, Kaka, Contrao, Albiol, Higuain, Callejon
Sevilla;
Varas
Coke
Fazio
Cala
F. Navarro
Trochowski
Deivid
J. Navas
Reyes
Rakitic
Negredo
After Wednesday’s Champions League semi-final disappointment where the Madrid...
The match is screened live on Sky Sports. Here’s the team news ahead of the game…
[Updated] – The line-ups are in and Mourinho has made less changes than we expected.
Real Madrid;
Casillas
Arbeloa
Pepe
Sergio Ramos
Marcelo
Xabi Alonso
Granero
Di Maria
Ozil
Ronaldo
Benzam
Subs: Adan, Khedira, Kaka, Contrao, Albiol, Higuain, Callejon
Sevilla;
Varas
Coke
Fazio
Cala
F. Navarro
Trochowski
Deivid
J. Navas
Reyes
Rakitic
Negredo
After Wednesday’s Champions League semi-final disappointment where the Madrid...
- 4/29/2012
- by Matt Holmes
- Obsessed with Film
So the Madrid derby comes at a major point in the season for both teams. Atletico need to win to keep up pressure on the European places, whilst Real need to win to avoid being labelled as the Cardiff City of La Liga (one of the more fashionable titles going around) as they’re doing the remarkable job of throwing away a 10 point lead over Barcelona, which is now down to 1 point.
It’s now officially squeaky bum time for Jose Mourinho’s side (that’s not a metaphor I’ve ever really understood, but it does create the rather playful idea of the highly paid Galacticos of Madrid squeaking their assess across the floor like a dog with an itchy behind, hence why I’m going to keep using it) who are facing a difficult run of games with the Champions League Semi-Finals against Bayern Munich bookending a potential title decider against Barcelona.
It’s now officially squeaky bum time for Jose Mourinho’s side (that’s not a metaphor I’ve ever really understood, but it does create the rather playful idea of the highly paid Galacticos of Madrid squeaking their assess across the floor like a dog with an itchy behind, hence why I’m going to keep using it) who are facing a difficult run of games with the Champions League Semi-Finals against Bayern Munich bookending a potential title decider against Barcelona.
- 4/11/2012
- by Luke Stevenson
- Obsessed with Film
Barcelona held out for a 4-3 aggregate victory over El Classico rivals Real Madrid in the second leg of their Quarter Final Copa del Ray fixture.
The first goal of the game arrived five minutes before half-time, with Pedro finishing off a fine pass from Lionel Messi, who had dribbled his way into space inside the Real Madrid area.
Barcelona extended their advantage to a seemingly insurmountable 4-1 when Danny Alves lashed home a 20-yard strike following a re-bound from a free-kick.
Real Madrid’s Sergio Ramos thought he had reduced the deficit early in the second half, but the referee correctly ruled it out following a tug on Alves by Ramos in the build up to the goal.
But Cristiano Ronaldo did spark life back into the tie as he rounded the keeper and slid the ball into the net to bring the game back to 4-2 on aggregate.
The first goal of the game arrived five minutes before half-time, with Pedro finishing off a fine pass from Lionel Messi, who had dribbled his way into space inside the Real Madrid area.
Barcelona extended their advantage to a seemingly insurmountable 4-1 when Danny Alves lashed home a 20-yard strike following a re-bound from a free-kick.
Real Madrid’s Sergio Ramos thought he had reduced the deficit early in the second half, but the referee correctly ruled it out following a tug on Alves by Ramos in the build up to the goal.
But Cristiano Ronaldo did spark life back into the tie as he rounded the keeper and slid the ball into the net to bring the game back to 4-2 on aggregate.
- 1/25/2012
- by Peter Willis
- Obsessed with Film
In a match surrounded by controversy with FIFA’s ruling against displaying the poppy on England’s shirts to the selection of John Terry after being currently under investigation for alleged racism, England defeated Spain 1-0 at Wembley. England gave a strong but extremely defensive display against the reigning World and European Champions, making the most of their few chances to snatch the victory.
From the outset England were consistently putting all 9 or 10 men behind the ball with every Spain attack and they were attacks which came thick and fast. Spain were their usual selves throughout the match, stringing passes into the slightest of areas and creating chances from nothing however it wasn’t enough to penetrate a solid English defence.
The initial talking points of the match came from the team selections. Spain displayed a very strong side which included David Villa, David Silva, Xavi, Andres Iniesta and company.
From the outset England were consistently putting all 9 or 10 men behind the ball with every Spain attack and they were attacks which came thick and fast. Spain were their usual selves throughout the match, stringing passes into the slightest of areas and creating chances from nothing however it wasn’t enough to penetrate a solid English defence.
The initial talking points of the match came from the team selections. Spain displayed a very strong side which included David Villa, David Silva, Xavi, Andres Iniesta and company.
- 11/12/2011
- by Kyle Gammon
- Obsessed with Film
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.