Real Madrid In Control Of El Classico
It has always been a difficult fixture for Real Madrid in recent years. Facing Barcelona even with their best run of form will probably end in defeat but the Blancos did enough on Saturday to overcome their rivals in a well contested match. Gareth Bale’s injury had little effect on Real Madrid’s display and the manager must be commended for getting it right tactically. Cristiano Ronaldo scored from the spot to make it 16 La Liga goals in 8 matches and his 19th goal in the last eleven consecutive matches. The Ballon d’Or holder had a very decent game and outshines the trio of Neymar, Suarez and Messi. The response of the team after Neymar’s 4th minute strike must be commended with Cristiano Ronaldo, Pepe and Karim Benzema leading the charge for an incredible comeback in an incredible 3-1 wins at the Bernabéu leaving Real Madrid 1 point behind league leaders, Barcelona.
Despite an inconsistent start to the league and the challenge of new big players arriving at the club, Real Madrid seem to have found their rhythm early enough. It took them more time last season to get going but recent performances have shown the Blancos may be a big opponent to come against this season despite the sale of Angel Di Maria and Xabi Alonso. Few months ago, the team looked depleted and incomplete and with two months left to round up 2014, Ancelotti has conjured something special with the Real Madrid’s team and Cristiano Ronaldo’s goal scoring record makes it even better. Carlo must be praised for his input and how he has shaped Real Madrid. It was expected that fitness will be an issue for Real Madrid after their midweek Champions League trip to Anfield. Although they got three points and three goals, Barcelona was tipped to cause them more problems. The transition from defence to attack for Real Madrid was out of this world. Luis Enrique and his men had nothing to give in solving the challenge thrown at them. Barcelona should have capitalised on their early lead but failed to do so and Real Madrid pounced on them in the second period.
Real Madrid showed more desire to win and they even deserve more from the game. It wasn’t the best of debut for Luis Suarez who would have loved to make more impact in such a big fixture.
The recent level at which Real Madrid is playing could signify a change of baton in the La Liga. Definitely not the end of Barcelona but they look well behind Real Madrid in many areas. Another big fight in the league this season is anticipated with both Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid coming in close on Barcelona. Both Real Madrid and Barcelona will be hoping to reclaim the title from champions Atletico Madrid and if Real Madrid maintain this current form, it will be difficult to wave them off both at home and in the continent.