Before I get into Champions League, I must first report the easy win Real Madrid had against Athletic Bilbao with a score of 5-1. Unfortunately Bilbao really got off to a bad start, when their player Aurtenetxe scored in his own goal which initially was attributed to Benezema but after watching the game during post-match analysis showed that the goal came off the foot of the defender attempting to stop him putting his own team behind from the beginning Real Madrid followed up with a successful header from defender Sergio Ramos who scored his first goal for Real Madrid, right after scoring for Spain during a friendly against Panama. Benzema later redeemed himself scoring a goal which nobody could contend and showcasing his excellent form. The following goal came from a player who is a personal favorite of mine, and very much underrated play maker of Real Madrid Mezut Ozil. Ozil is also a stalwart for the German national team where he is heavily praised and highly regarded as one of the best midfielders, and really needed this goal due to his drop in form this season.
Match Day 5 of Champions League group of Death has come down to the wire for Manchester City who are bringing up the rear in the group in last place. After today the top 16 teams are ensured a place in the next round of the tournament, but the team with the least points are out. So this match is basically survival for Man City who need a win to stay alive, while their opponents Real Madrid need a win or a draw to move on the tournament as part of the 16. But luck was not on the side of really either team as Real Madrid exhibited a drop in form, and Man City could barely keep up until the final minutes. Right off the bat Benzema netted an easy goal for his team, but it would be the only one from Los Blancos. Real Madrid seemed too comfortable for the rest of the game, never taking full control and failing to guide the ball on target. Man City was able to score in the second half and then gained momentum for the rest of the match working tirelessly and aggressively to score a winning goal before time ran out. But it was too little too late and the score remained the same, allowing for Real Madrid to move on by the skin of their teeth, and an exit for Man City from the Champions League. The result of this match could be viewed as a positive for Man City despite the media and press undermining coach Roberto Mancini’s performance because as of right now City is ahead in the English Premier League and can now concentrate on that tournament and winning the title.
(Manchini after Man City’s loss)