David Villa popped up to score late on against 10 man Sevilla on Saturday and maintain Barcelona's 100% record in La Liga and the Champions League this season but only after coming from 2-0 down. Below par for much of the first half and the start of the second, the Catalan club were somewhat lucky to avoid a similar fate as rivals Real Madrid. Amid the poor start from Madrid, who they face next week, Barca had been running away with La Liga and seemed intent on punishing the capital side. Instead Villa's late goal ensured Barcelona exited the game which they could so easily have lost with … [Read more...]
Archives for September 2012
Atletico’s push for Champions League spot
As Spanish newspaper Marca continues to print stories relating to the inner capitulation at Real Madrid, neighbours Atletico have begun the season in sensational form. Los Rojiblancos are unbeaten in 12/13 and have won five consecutive games since the opening day draw with Levante and appear to seek more than another run in Europe's secondary competition next season. Currently holders of the Europa League, the competition serves as a reminder of their failure to secure qualification to their tournament of preference. Another crack at realistic glory … [Read more...]
City win temporarily covers dressing room cracks
Major inconsistency has blighted a campaign which appeared destined to go one better than last season for Real Madrid. In spite of recent cup victories over Barcelona and Manchester City, Mourinho's squad remains divided, rarely performing to the pinnacle of their combined abilities, especially in La Liga. Damaging defeats to teams who were once dominated by Ronaldo and co has plagued the beginning to their title defence. Rumours of rows within the team appear on the front pages of Marca almost daily and post-match criticism from Mourinho fuels added animosity. Two weeks ago Cristiano Ronaldo … [Read more...]