- by Leslie Chavez, writing from LA
Real Madrid open their season with a scoreless draw against Mallorca. Madrid was finally able to open their scoring account against Osasuna, which was scored by former Chelsea Defender Ricardo Carvalho. Both games gave Real Madrid opportunities they failed to capitalize because of their inability to finish.
The game against Real Sociedad was exasperating. The first half was dominated by Real Sociedad, who could have easily gone into halftime up 2-0. Fortunately for the Merengues, Real Sociedad also suffered from the inability to finish. Unlike the Osasuna, game where Iker Casillas didn’t need to make any saves, Casillas was definitely kept on his toes. Approximately, five minutes after the second half began Real Madrid had a break and Angel Di Maria scored his first La Liga goal and gave the Merengues the upper hand. Faith quickly turned at the 60th minute when Casillas conceded the first goal of the season. Real Madrid, nonetheless, was able to keep a stronger possession the second half. At the 74th minute Ronaldo took a free kick that was slightly deflected on teammate Pepe giving Real Madrid the lead 2-1 over Sociedad, and guaranteeing them the three point that placed them at the top of La Liga.
Truth is, it was a difficult win to swallow, due to the fact that this was indeed a lucky win. Real Madrid was lucky that they weren’t down two goals after the first half. Real Madrid was lucky that the post stopped a “sure-in” goal. Real Madrid has talented players. They shouldn’t win solely based on luck. If luck hadn’t been on their side Real Sociedad would have clinged a 4-1 win.
After the game Jose Mourinho said "Hemos sacado tres puntos de oro," (We got three golden points) and indeed they were golden.
Credit where it’s Due
Angel Di Maria (RMA) scored the first goal followed by an equalizer from Raul Tamudo (RSO). Finally goal or relief by Ronaldo, which gave Real Madrid the win and placed them on top of the table, at least for 20 hours.
What’s Next?
A Tuesday game against Espanyol who is currently one point behind Real Madrid. If Real Madrid plays their cards right they will be able to reach the top of the League once more. This time, hopefully, for longer than a day.
Highlight of the Game
Highlight of the game has to be the tantrum by Jose “I’m not harry Potter” Mourinho.
Follow Leslie on Twitter: @lesliej_
