SPANISH NATIONAL FOOTBALL TEAM LIST 23 PLAYERS FOR WORLD CUP 2014

Spanish National Football Team Selector & Coach Vicente Del Bosque has announced today the official & final list of 23 players that will make up the Spain Football Team squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2014 in Brazil. 

The Real Madrid & Atletico de Madrid players are included & 7 names have been dropped from the 30 announced more than a week ago. Those eliminated include Jesus Navas, Moreno, Iturrespe, Carvajal, Delofeu...etc.

However, there could be a last minute modification. Spanish Football Team Selector Del Bosque will test Diego Costa - under a injury cloud - in the upcoming International Friendly game against El Salvador on the 7th of June to be played in the United States. If Diego Costa is not 100% Spain can call up a replacement as allowed by FIFA regulation. In this "extreme" case, a forward like Negredo or Fernando Llorente could be called up. Most believe however that Diego Costa will be OK by the time Spain plays El Salvador.

Final list of 23 players that make up the SPANISH NATIONAL FOOTBALL - SOCCER - TEAM:

- Goalkeepers: Iker Casillas (Real Madrid), Pepe Reina (Nápoles), David De Gea (Manchester United).

- Defenders: Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea), Gerard Pique y Jordi Alba (Barcelona), Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid), Javi Martinez (Bayern Múnich), Raul Albiol (Nápoles), Juanfran Torres (At.Madrid).

- Midfielders: Sergio Busquets, Xavi Hernández Andrés Iniesta y Cesc Fabregas (Barcelona), Xabi Alonso (Real Madrid), Koke Resurrección (Atletico de Madrid), David Silva (Manchester City), Juan Mata (Manchester United), Santi Cazorla (Arsenal).

- Forwards: Pedro Rodriguez (Barcelona), Diego Costa & David Villa (At. Madrid), Fernando Torres (Chelsea).

There will be diverting opinions & many disappointments. I am surprised to see Mata, Torres & Villa in the final list, while I would have taken - personally - Isco , Jose Callejon & perhaps Fernando Llorente. However, I am not the Spanish Team Selector & trust the wise decision & Football experience of our World Cup & European Championship Coach.

Good luck boys!

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SPAIN 2 BOLIVIA 0 | INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLY

SPAIN defeated BOLIVIA 2 - 0 in their International Friendly played this Friday night in the Spanish city of Seville. The Spanish Football National Team, without the Real Madrid & Atletico de Madrid Internationals, used the occasion to begin their particular build-up towards the upcoming FIFA World Cup Tournament in Brazil were they arrive as defending World Champions. Bolivia was a good "sparring" partner as they played a fairly good match considering they have not had an International game for the last 6 months. 

Spain gave their squad a run changing around players from the first half to the second half, with two Spanish Players gaining their debut "International Cap", Athletic Club midfielder Iturrespe & FC Barcelona youngster Deulofeu.

The match in itself was more than just a "simple run" for some Spanish Internationals as Coach Del Bosque will hand in his final list of 23 players tomorrow. Tonight served players like Torres, Pedro, Cazorla etc. to remind the Selector that they are keen & serious candidates. Either way, there will be disappointment tomorrow with the final World Cup list as some important names will be dropped & we will be surprised.

Tonight's match also served to show what Spain will face in the upcoming World Cup. Bolivia played the first half as the future opponents of the World Champions will be practising, defending in block with most of their men awaiting for counter-attacking opportunities. Spain played & showed their habitual & now famous method of touch Football but as we have also seen in the past, crushed into the defensive wall of their opponents without much goal chances.

The second half saw Spain make some changes with Silva, Cesc Fabregas & Andres Iniesta coming on which gave more creativity, fresher legs & created more goal opportunities. The first goal of the match came in the 51st min when Fernando Torres converted a penalty. The  second was a magnificent shot from outside the box from Andres Iniesta in the 84th min. Could have been more but Busquets hit the post.

A relatively comfortable win for Spain which will serve to "grease up the engine" as they soon fly to the USA for another International Friendly warm-up before flying to Brazil to meet Holland in their first official Group match of the World Cup. 

Stay tuned the final list of 23 players - with inclusion of Real Madrid - Atletico de Madrid Internationals - to be handed in mid-day. 

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THREE SPANISH FOOTBALL PLAYERS IN TOP 100 WORLD CUP LIST

The English newspaper the "The Guardian" has elaborated & released its "List of Top 100 World Cup Football Players". Three Spanish Football Players are represented within the list:

• Xavi Hernandez Nº15
• Carles Pujol Nº64
• Andres Iniesta Nº65

The voting was done by 6 World Cup ex-players (Barnes, Khune, Matthaus, Oliseh, Smith y Zico), 20 journalists from "The Guardian" & 12 International journalists. The votes from the ex-players had greater weight than the rest.

List of Top 100 World Cup players:

 1. Pele   (3 World Titles in 4 World Cup appearances)
2. Maradona
3. Beckenbauer
4. Ronaldo
5. Zidane
6. Cruyff
7. Matthaus
8. Müller
9. Garrincha
10. Platini
.../...  

15. Xavi
64. Puyol
65. Iniesta
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THE POSSIBLE DISINTEGRATION OF THE ATLETICO DE MADRID SQUAD ?

Staying with Spanish Football Club Atletico de Madrid, the Liga Champions are the talk of the Spanish Sports media. If the below post talks about the possible exit of David Villa, Spanish Sports paper "Mundo Deportivo" talks about all the players in danger of leaving the Club this Summer. 

For all those interested, & especially the Atletico de Madrid fans, I thought I give a summary of all the speculations, players names, interested Clubs & possible substitutes. Lastly, Atletico de Madrid owner Angel Gil said yesterday that the Club will do what it can to retain its players but if the interested Clubs come with the contract release clause payments it is in the hands of the player. He also added that the Club will attempt to better the contracts of some players. 

Players which have already left are:

-Tiago (speculated going to Chelsea FC)
-Diego Ribas (signs with Fernerbahce)
-Cristian Rodiguez ... looking for new Club.

Rumoured to have agreements with other Clubs:

-Diego Costa (Chelsea FC) , a rumour but his substitute could be Roberto Soldado of Tottenham. 
-David Villa (New York City-MLS) rumoured.
-Miranda (rumoured Manchester United, although FC Barcelona is also in there as well)

Said to be returning to his Club of origin after a loan period:

-Courtois (Chelsea FC), the player is attempting to stay. Could finally be part of a deal with Chelsea FC over the already mentioned players. Possible replacement Keylor Navas of Levante if Courtois finally returns to the UK.

Players with other Clubs interested:

-Felipe Luis (Chelsea FC), if he goes Siquiera of Benefica said to be possible substitute.
-Koke (Man Utd & FC Barcelona) , but he has said he is staying at At Madrid

As you can see a possible total disintegration of a Champions squad. Obviously the Club with Coach Simeone have foreseen this & have planned substitutes which will be signed throughout the upcoming weeks. Plus many of the above names are still rumours & speculations, & if true will need to negotiate hard between the Clubs. What is a certainty is that we are in for a very interesting Summer.

Stay tuned!

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DAVID VILLA AGREES TO PLAY WITH NEW YORK CITY ?

Another name has entered the list of speculated players (Costa, Arda, Felipe Luis, Courtois...) that will leave Atletico de Madrid. Spanish International forward David Villa is said to have accepted an offer from American Football Club "New York City". The news comes out from Spanish radio & has been picked up by Spanish Sports daily "AS".

David Villa has 32 years of age & his season with Atletico de Madrid was relatively "quiet" on the goal front. Although Villa worked extremely hard for his team in 47 official games he only managed 15 goals. This figure is relatively low & could signal a tendency that with the years the level of elite Football may be a bit too much to maintain constantly. The news source says that David Villa has agreed to play in the MLS for the next three years.

As with most transfer news exploding onto the front pages at the moment they are speculations & rumour. In the case of Villa he is up for contract renewal & has a huge salary that Atletico de Madrid may not be able to sustain. The American & New York readers may well be correct to be excited in getting the opportunity to see a great Football scorer so close at home. Stay tuned!

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DATES FOR UEFA SUPER CUP | SPANISH SUPER CUP | SPANISH LIGA 2014-2015

The dates for the upcoming UEFA Super Cup & Spanish Super Cup have been released. They are interesting because both titles are all Spanish Football Clubs & because our Welsh (Wales-UK) readers will be treated to the UEFA Super Cup Final in the city of Cardiff.

The UEFA Super Cup that will face Spanish Football Clubs Real Madrid (Champions League winners) & Sevilla FC (Europa League winners) will be held on Tuesday August 12th at Cardiff (Wales), while the Spanish Super Cup between Atletico de Madrid (Spanish Liga winners) & Real Madrid (Spanish Cup winners) will be held on Wednesday August the 20th - 1ºleg - & 27th August - 2ºleg. 

The Spanish Liga season 2014-2015 kicks off the 24th of August. This has been confirmed by the Spanish Football & Liga Professional (LFP).

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MANCHESTER UNITED CLOSE TO SIGNING MIRANDA OF ATLETICO DE MADRID ?

Spanish Sports paper "AS" announces that Atletico de Madrid Brazilian defender MIRANDA is on the verge of being transferred to English Premier League Club Manchester United. In the last few days the name of FC Barcelona was also sounding but it seems the defender has given his OK to the English Club. Mentioned this Spanish Sports paper "Marca" writes that Barça are still in with a chance. The estimated transfer figure is said to be around 30M€, that is Manchester United would pay the contract release clause.

Miranda will be added to a list of Atletico de Madrid players who will exit, along with Tiago who will likely go to Chelsea FC, Diego Ribas who has signed with Fernabache, Courtois who is said to be going back to Chelsea FC along with Diego Costa which has been a speculation for months.

Another name sound strong as a possible exit is Turkish star Arda Turan. Spanish Football Club FC Barcelona has placed its eyes on the talented midfielder & could be the possible substitute for Cesc Fabregas. The Spanish Club is said to following closely the Turk on the field & off the field before making a decision. 

With all the speculated exit names at Atletico de Madrid one who logically expect the Club to be working hard for top substitutes to replace them. Stay tuned for further news.

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ATLETICO DE MADRID SIGNS ANGEL CORREA FROM SAN LORENZO

Spanish Football Club Atletico de Madrid has announced the signing of 19 year old forward ANGEL CORREA of Argentine Club San Lorenzo. The signing has cost the Spanish Club 8M€ & the player commits himself for the next 5 years. 

Atletico de Madrid will allow the player to participate with San Lorenzo in the "Libertadores Cup" which has an important qualifying match for San Lorenzo (vs Bolivar) at the end of July. Atletico has contracted an insurance policy in case Correa gets injured during his participation with his current Club. If San Lorenzo were to get themselves in the Final of Libertadores, Correa will also be allowed to continue playing with San Lorenzo.

The negotiations have been ongoing for months between both Clubs & finally Atletico de Madrid announces the new incorporation of this young Argentine Football promise. Welcome to Spanish Football Angel! 

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FC BARCELONA CLOSE TO SIGNING PSG MARQUINHOS

Brazilian International defender David Luiz was a FC Barcelona objective for season 2014-2015, however Paris St Germain got in ahead & signed the Chelsea FC player. The Spanish Football Club then changed strategy & placed their attention on Brazilian defender MARQUINHOS currently player of Paris St Germain. 

Spanish Sports paper based in Barcelona, Sport, comments that the negotiations between Clubs has accelerated & write about a 20M€ offer plus Dani Alves (est. players worth 15M€) package, that is a 35M€ offer by Barça. Marquinhos has been a regular starter under PSG Coach Blanc & has the doors open if a good offer appears.

However, there is more news on the transfer front involving FC Barcelona. News has appeared that Atletico de Madrid defender MIRANDA is also on their list of possible signings.  This is less certain but in Football very possible. Stay tuned!

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REAL MADRID | TIME TO PAYBACK SERGIO RAMOS

Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos sits at the top of the Real Madrid CF mountain & the Football World. His last minute equalizing goal against Atletico de Madrid in last Saturday s UEFA Champions League Final not only took away the Trophy from the rivals hands but set up his team to later score 3 more goals in the extra-time to win.

Ramos goes down in the Clubs History as the player (the "messiah") of "the 10th" European Cup for Real Madrid healing an almost "collective psychotic" Club obsession which was beginning to block the Club.  

But this euphoric & legendary status was not always this way. In fact early in the season ( around Xmas) there was a serious rip between Sergio Ramos & Real Madrid, its was all about money. The defender requested that he be lifted in the salary bracket to the levels of Iker Casillas & Gareth Bale, approximately 10-11M€ per season. The Club refused claiming that they have recently renewed his contract. 

The players "disappointment" was such that his on field performance dropped & that he even began to contemplate leaving Real Madrid "threatening" to accept offers from other Clubs. The relationship between player & Club was tense, & a sort of "peace period" was agreed to study things in the future. 

Now it is time to strike again while the "knife is hot". Sergio Ramos via his representative - his Brother Rene - will begin their frontal attack to get from the Club their desired improved contract & those 10M€/season or more conditions. This time around there is very little that Real Madrid can do to deny him his contractual desires. Sergio Ramos has entered the "Olympus" of the Club & as such will have to be treated as a "local God".

As Sergio Ramos has said on numerous occasions, hard work & perseverance pays dividends. What he forget to mention is that a match saving last minute goal in a UEFA Champions League Final is worth its "weight" in Gold. 
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CRISTIANO RONALDO FAR FROM A TRUE CHAMPION

Firstly, congratulations to Real Madrid CF for winning their 10th UEFA Champions League (European Cup) after defeating Atletico de Madrid 4 - 1 in extra time yesterday in the Final at the "Estadio da Luz Stadium" in Lisbon Portugal.

Epic goal from Sergio Ramos in the last moments to take the match into extra-time after Atletico de Madrid was leading 0 - 1 which virtually had the title in their hands. The disappointment of watching the title slip & a fresher Real Madrid was enough to allow later Bale, Marcelo & Cristino Ronaldo to score the rest of the goals to take the maximum European Football prize.

However, its the last Real Madrid goal that I would like to spend some time & write some words. The above picture sees Cristino Ronaldo celebrate his penalty goal taking the scoreline to 4 - 1 with just minutes left of the extra-time left. This unnecessary form of celebrating yet typical of the Portuguese has received a wave of criticism that has all the reasons to be denounced. That was not all, Real Madrid defender Rafael Varane also showed an "unsportman" & perhaps "arrogant" attitude kicking the ball into the Atletico de Madrid bench which lead to an intense arguement with Atletico de Madrid Coach Simeone. In the Varane case, it can be excused as a mistake given his youth & lack of Finals experience. In the Cristiano Ronaldo case, it wipes off all the marketing & public relations efforts & shows the true Ronaldo as an arrogant & ego-centric personality that keeps him far from a true Football Champion no matter how many goals, titles or FIFA Golden Balls the man may acquire. 

To add context, Cristiano Ronaldo did relatively nothing for 117th min of the match. With his team already 3 - 1 up with three minutes left, it was obvious that Real Madrid had secured & won the title & that the penalty earned by "CR7" was just an extra. The merit exists in scoring the goal, a celebration is totally justified as an expression of joy & release of pressure, but to consciously stop & pose as the "Incredible Hulk" to get some media exposure - perhaps to sell more jocks - & rub more salt into the Atletico wounds was totally unnecessary, totally out of order & very unsportsmanlike. 

The truth is that Cristiano Ronaldo unmasked himself. The man with his management team & public relations machine continually works to clean up the "ego-rubbish" that their client (Cristiano Roanldo) leaves behind on repeated ocassions. The constant "fabricated" TV coverages of visiting children at Hospitals & charity donations gets flashed down the toilet when their "Star" turns into a "Black-Hole" that sucks in everything around him into his ego centre. 

Total megalomania in the realm of Football, & the highest exponent is Mr Cristiano Ronaldo. The player will retire & history will look back to remember that he had a excellent muscle structure & that he looked great in Armani jocks. However, very few will remember Ronaldo as a true Sportsman, full of elegance & with fair play. Even less, a true Champion of any reference or example to others. 

Perhaps the player can be an interesting case for human behaviour specialists studying the extent of self-esteem taken to the extreme in wild self idolatry.

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UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL 2014 PREVIEW | REAL MADRID-ATLETICO DE MADRID

Tomorrow Saturday 24th of May at around 21.50 (Lisbon, Portugal) time, either Real Madrid CF or Atletico de Madrid will be proclaimed UEFA Champions League season 2013-2014 winners. This naturally will be the case if the Final between these two Spanish Football Clubs does not go into extra-time or later into a penalty shoot-out.

Real Madrid CF Team photo season 2013-2014

Both teams have already given their pre-match press conferences & both teams have trained on the Lisbon (Benfica - "Estadio da Luz") playing field for tomorrow. All questions, all eyes & all Sports media cameras were focused on the players from both teams under a "injury cloud" for the Final.

The end result is still blurred & "up in the air" for some players. From Atletico de Madrid Arda Turan looked OK, as did Diego Costa who may have held himself back somewhat, except for a positive hard spirit that lifted hopes.

Real Madrid saw a confident & free flowing Cristiano Ronaldo who should play, but Pepe & Karim Benzema did not answer either way the questions or solve the doubts if they will make it. All I can say after watching both squads on TV is that they all seemed to be moving OK.Tomorrow all questions will be answered & all doubts will be cleared.

Atletico de Madrid Team photo season 2013-2014

Thus speculation on tomorrows starting XI team line-ups is still just that, speculation as the training sessions did not reveal much nor diminish pre existing doubts. I get the feeling both teams are hiding their "cards".

From here all my best wishes to both team - obviously as a Atletico de Madrid fan my heart will be with them - & may the better team win.

I will be out tomorrow night on a personal affair but will be watching the Final. I will not be able to give all the post-match details & photos so please forgive me readers, but will be posting Sunday all the images of the teams & the celebrating Club with will be from Madrid either way.

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REAL MADRID - ATLETICO DE MADRID CHAMPIONS FINAL | POSSIBLE STARTING TEAM LINE-UPS

Everything is in place for tomorrows UEFA Champions League Cup Final that hails the end of the European Football season. Two Spanish Football Clubs, Real Madrid CF & Atletico de Madrid, will meet 19.45 (Lisbon, Portugal time) to fight it out between themselves to claim the maximum European Football title. Atletico de Madrid goes in on a roll after claiming last weekend the Spanish Liga Title & are full of hope & dreams to claim their first ever European Cup. The other opponent, Real Madrid, goes in with an almost "psychotic obsession" to claim their 10th European Cup, added pressure that could take its toll.

However, apart from the "brain factors", the talk is about the possible starting team line-ups with both Clubs hit by important injuries. Real Madrid go into Saturdays Final with Cristiano Ronaldo under a cloud, along with Pepe & Benzema. Added to all this Xabi Alonso cannot play due to yellow card accumulation & will sit with the crowd. Atletico de Madrid has two injury worries, the first Arda Turan who looks positive & Diego Costa who seems to have overcome a leg-muscle injury in a "mircale" fashion after visiting controversial Serbian Dr. Kovacevic.

Both sides have last training sessions planned & will test their doubtful players & then make the decision if they will start in tomorrows final. Local Football observers & media insiders have already speculated with the starting XI line-ups of both Real Madrid-At Madrid for tomorrows UEFA Championship Final. I will give my idea of what I think may be the starting teams for both Clubs after checking all the local media sources & counter-checking with all the last minute news coming out of Lisbon. 

The speculated starting XI team line-up for Real Madrid is (4-4-2):

• Iker Casillas
• Carvajal
• Varane ( Pepe will not make it)
• Sergio Ramos
• Coentrao
• Illaramendi
• Modric
• Di Maria
• Isco
• Cristiano Ronaldo
• Gareth Bale

Karim Benzema will start on the bench. The Frenchmen is adamant that he can start & will have a final exam this afternoon/evening,  but there is doubt with the technical team.

The speculated starting XI team line-up for Atletico de Madrid is (4-3-3):

• Courtois
• JuanFran
• Miranda
• Godin
• Luis Felipe
• Tiago ( or Mario Suarez )
• Gabi
• Koke
• Arda Turan
• David Villa
• Diego Costa ( if not Raul Garcia)

Diego Costa will risk. However, predicting the line-up of Atletico de Madrid is difficult. Simeone seems to be playing "mid games" with his line-up & may well surprise. There is talk that Sosa could start & that perhaps Villa will not. Lets not forget Adrian could start if Costa finally fails to make it. Coach Simeone has more resources available & more possible line-up combinations to play around with.

In both cases, & at this relative early stage, the above announced starting teams from my part are pure speculations. The final XI will not be known until 45 minutes before the kick-off & I am almost certain there will be surprises from both teams.

Good luck to both Clubs & may the better team win.

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FC BARCELONA | SWAP ALEXIS SANCHEZ FOR FERNANDO LLORENTE PLUS 20M€ ?

Spanish Football Club FC Barcelona has began its particular "revolution" starting yesterday with the announcement of new Coach Luis Enrique. The comments of the ex-FC Barcelona player (now Coach) confirmed that "deep" changes are in his plans with names like Alves, Cesc Fabregas, Pedro in the air along with Xavi Hernandez. Messi was sent "warm love" but here as well speculation is that the Argentine could leave Barça. 

One name & player looking at the exit door is Chilean International Alexis Sanchez. The Club that seems to have the forward on their list of priorities is Italian Club Juventus FC. 

Italian Sports paper "La Gazzetta dello Sport" writes about a possible exchange of players. FC Barcelona is looking for a Centre Forward & Juventus FC Spanish International Fernando Llorente is rumoured to be the chosen player. Thus the news coming out of Italy, being picked up locally,  is that Juventus FC is willing to offer 20M€ plus the loan of Fernando Llorente. It is also said that there is agreement between Alexis & Juventus & that now the Clubs would have to seal the deal.

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INJURY WORRIES ATLETICO - REAL MADRID FOR CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL

Things are really beginning to heat up in the city of Madrid as both big Spanish Football Clubs Atletico de Madrid & Real Madrid will meet this Saturday in the Final of the UEFA Champions League in Lisbon (Portugal).

However, the news has is focused on the injuries of players in both teams, players which are & have been very important all season for both Clubs. The long Spanish Football & European Soccer season has taken its toll on players who are now suffering the strains & wears with injury.

Atletico de Madrid has two main worries. The first, their star forward Diego Costa has a small back muscle thigh tear that has been diagnosed & has been recommended 15 days of rest. At first sight this would cancel out totally his participation in the upcoming Final. However, the player is looking for a "miracle" & has flown to Serbia to be treated by Doctor Marijana Kovacevic who uses "horse placenta" to recover players from muscle injury in record periods. She is famous for doing "miracles" with English Premier League Football players, example Man Utd forward Van Persie. Will he make it? Still very doubtful, but faith can move mountains. The worrying part to the Diego Costa story, & if he plays, is that if he "breaks" he could well put all his Spanish National Team duties in the upcoming World Cup 2014 in Brazil in the garbage. He could be watching Spain at home recovering from injury on the TV. Huge risk if he does finally jump onto the field.

The other injury cloud over Atletico de Madrid is Turan Arda. Here it is less dramatic as he suffered a knock on his hip last Sunday in Liga, & now seems to be moving freely. He is almost certain to make it to the final.

Real Madrid on the other hand has a longer list of important players under a cloud & it is more worrying for the Club. Apart, they will have Xabi Alonso sitting on the bench due to yellow cards accumulation & it is an important missing element to the side.

The "sick list" is a follows:

Pepe: a twin muscle problem. Difficult the he will make it.

Benzema: a groin muscle strain. Coach Ancelotti said that it will be difficult that he will make it 100%. The player is trying to recover in time...50/50.

Cristiano Ronaldo: back muscle thigh tear. Although minimal the tear, the player has been nursing this for weeks & has even risked in the past. The player made all the alarm bells sound when he retired from the field last weekend after "feeling something" in the warm-up. He has commented that he is OK & will make it to the Final.

In the Ronaldo case their is a psychological element as he has the fear of missing the World Cup if he "breaks", this may limit his efforts & play. 

Overall, some big worries on both sides with Real Madrid the more affected. Stay tuned!

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SPANISH FOOTBALL LIGA BEST XI PLAYERS - TEAM BY THE LFP SEASON 2013-2014

The "Liga Nacional de Futbol Profesional" (LFP = National Professional Football Liga), the association responsible for administering the two professional football leagues in Spain - the "Liga" and Segunda Division, has handed in their list of 11 players that makes up the "IDEAL LIGA TEAM" season 2013-2014.

The "core" of the "Best XI" is made up of Atletico de Madrid players, reflecting their outstanding year & their Liga title season 2013-2014. Below is the full list of players that make up the "Liga Best Players" season 2013-2014 given by the LFP:

Courtois ( Atletico de Madrid)
JuanFran (Atletico de Madrid)
Laporte (Athletic Club Bilbao)
Godin ( Atletico de Madrid)
Felipe Luis ( Atletico de Madrid)
Iturraspe (Athletic Club Bilbao)
Koke (Atletico de Madrid)
Gabi ( Atletico de Madrid)
Ratikic (Sevilla FC)
Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid FC)
Diego Costa ( Atletico de Madrid)

Strange not to see any FC Barcelona players or Lionel Messi, but their absence reflects their relatively "bad season".

Congratulations to all the named players.
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SPANISH FOOTBALL LIGA TOP GOALSCORER - TOP GOALKEEPER WINNERS SEASON 2013-2014

With the Spanish Football Liga season over it is time to post about the awards winners & all other types of official ( & unofficial ) recognitions that habitually appear at the end of the season. Two very important & prestigious Awards are the Spanish Liga "Top Goalscorer" - El Pichichi - & the Spanish Liga "Best Goalkeeper" - El Zamora.

The Award for the Spanish Football Liga "Highest Goalscorer" goes to Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo with 31 goals. This number is also the "European Golden Boot Award" which will be shared with Liverpool FC forward Luis Suarez.

Spanish Football Liga Top Goalscorer - El Pichichi - season 2013/2014 list:

1.Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid)         31 goals
2.Messi (FC Barcelona)                         28
3.Diego Costa(Atletico de Madrid)           27
4.Alexis (FC Barcelona)                         19
5.Karim Benzema (Real Madrid)               17

The other important prize of great prestige is "El Zamora", the "Best Goalkeeper" of the Spanish Liga season. The winner is young Atletico de Madrid player Courtois who have only 24 goals scored against him. The player is currently considered the "Best Goalkeeper in the World".

Spanish Football Liga Best Goalkeeper - El Zamora - season 2013/2014 list:

1. Thibaut Courtois (Atletico de Madrid) 0,65 coefficient 24 goals
2. Iraizoz (Athletic Bilbao)          0,97         32
3. Diego López (Real Madrid FC) 1,00         36
4. K. Navas (Levante)                1,08         36
5. Asenjo (Villarreal)                  1,17        41

Congratulations to both.

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SPANISH FOOTBALL LIGA | ROUND 38 FINAL RESULTS

Spanish Football continued today with the last Round (38) of season 2013-2014 with all the action at the bottom of the Spanish Liga classification table. Intense matches, with accidents & even post-match incidents as the final results sent 2 teams along with Real Betis to the Spanish 2º Division next season. The other side of the coin was the celebration of the Clubs which saved themselves from relegation to continue in Liga next season. 

The final results are as follows:

• Almeria 0 - Athletic club Bilbao 0:

The draw & the Getafe win allows Almeria to stay in the Spanish Liga next season.

• Rayo Vallecano 1 (Trashorras) - Getafe 2 (Ciprian, Marica, penalty):

The win saves Getafe who managed the all important goal in the last moment with a penalty in the 93rd min which Marica converted. Saved by the skin of their teeth, with post-match incidents between Coaches & players as the emotions overflowed.

• Osasuna 2 (Oriol Riera, Acuña) - Real Betis (Chica):

Even though Osasuna won they get relegated to the Spanish 2º Division. However the other news was the collapse of a crowd barrier that lead to 20-30 injuries. Could have been much worst but thanks to fate nothing beyond this that could have been a tragedy.

• Real Valladolid 0 - Granada 1 (Mitrovic own goal):

Real Valladolid loses to an own goal that sends them to the 2º Division but saves Granada. Bad luck, tears at Valladolid, while Granada celebrate their struggle & luck.

The three teams that get relegated to the Spanish 2º Division are:

• Osasuna 39 points
• Real Valladolid 36 points
• Real Betis 25 points

Sevilla FC 3 (Iborra, Jairo, Iborra) - Elche 1 (Boakye). The result of this game had no effect on which Clubs got relegated.

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SPANISH FOOTBALL | ATLETICO DE MADRID LIGA CHAMPIONS | SATURDAY RESULTS

The Spanish Football League title went down to the wire to be settled in the last Round (38) & precisely between the two contenders, Atletico de Madrid & FC Barcelona. The much anticipated game at "Camp Nou" ended in a 1 - 1 draw which gave Atletico de Madrid the Spanish Liga Title season 2013-2014.

The match takes all the headlines & eclipses the other games scheduled today/tonight. The FC Barcelona - Atletico de Madrid game was costly to both sides in injuries, especially Atletico de Madrid which lost Diego Costa & Arda Turan. Both have a cloud over their participation in the UEFA Champions League Final against Real Madrid next Saturday. FC Barcelona lost Sergi Busquets to injury & is a concern for the Spanish National Football Team selector.

The game in itself was as expected nervous, tense & taken to the limit as both sides had the Liga Championship in their hands. FC Barcelona went ahead against the "grain" of play when they were not playing well when Alexis scored a "cracker" in the 33rd min. However, it is not the same Barça team we have been used to in the passed seasons or at the start or midway through this season. The "Barça Machine" is not precise, fine-tuned & reliable with obvious "problems" in the defensive area & in fixed ball situations.

It was from a corner that Atletico de Madrid managed the prized draw & point after Godin flew in to header a corner in the 49th min. This put doubts into the Barcelona team as Atletico regrouped to neutralize Barça & their efforts. This included a great Courtois goalie save that inspired his team. Barça will claim an unjust disallowed goal to Messi for off-side which would have possibly given them the title, but in the end the packed "Camp Nou" crowd rose to applaud the new Spanish League Champions Atletico de Madrid. 

For Barcelona its a "bad season" finishing second & not winning any titles signalling the end of a "Golden Era" that perhaps will never be repeated. Big chances are coming starting with a new Coach (rumour is Luis Enrique ex Barcelona & Celta de Vigo Coach) as Tata Martino announced his "goodbye after the match & a string of players that will leave or be sold. More news in coming weeks & months, so stay tuned!


The other Round 38 games final results are:

The Friday night Round 38 game was Malaga FC 1 (Portillo) - Levante 0

Today:
Real Madrid 3 (Bale, 2 X Morata) - RCD Espanyol 1 (Pizzi)

Real Madrid finished the Liga season third with shared points ( 87points ) with FC Barcelona. Their star forward Cristiano Ronaldo did not start todays match as he retired during the warm-up & Karim Benzema felt a pinch in the groin during the match. Both are under a cloud for next weeks UEFA Champions League Final against Atletico de Madrid. However, Coach Ancelotti said he is confident of having both available.

Valencia CF 2 (Feghouli, Piatti) - Celta de Vigo 1 (Inigo Lopez)

Valencia made a comeback to take the match & give the local fans something to smile about tonight, after a very difficult season. 

Tomorrow the last games of Round 38 of Spanish Liga continue with big drama at the bottom of the classification table. Half a dozen Clubs will be playing for their Liga future next season as they attempt to avoid relegation. Tense afternoon/night tomorrow of Spanish Football.
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REAL MADRID PREPARING A 85M€ OFFER FOR LUIS SUAREZ?

The news out from the UK, concretely the English newspaper "Mirror", is an echo of what has also been sounding here in Spain for months. The UK source informs that Spanish Football Club Real Madrid is preparing a 85M€ offer for Liverpool FC forward Luis Suarez. This has been a constant rumour locally which has never gone away since last summer. This time around the speculation keeps growing in strength.

It is also added that to finance the operation Real Madrid would be willing to transfer/sell French forward Karim Benzema. Another English Club Arsenal FC is said to be very interested in the Real Madrid forward whose inconsistency & lack of decisive contribution in the big Football occasions has disappointed the Spanish Club & the Real Madrid fan-base. 

Said all this, it looks as if Luis Suarez could be this summers transfer "affair". Liverpool FC will be doing all in their hands to convince that their forward stay at their Club. While a spectacular upcoming World Cup performance from the Uruguayan may sky rocket his already elevated market price or attract other big European Clubs making the coming summer hot full of news stories & rumour.

Stay tuned! 

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SEVILLA FC UEFA EUROPA LEAGUE CHAMPIONS 4 - 2 AFTER PENALTY SHOOT OUT

Spanish Football Club SEVILLA FC won its third UEFA / EUROPA LEAGUE Title after defeating Portuguese Club Benfica in the penalty shoot out ( 4-2) after extra-time. A match the was taken to the limit by both teams & unfortunate for Benfica for its their 8th European Final in which they have lost, giving more fame to the so called Curse of Bela Guttmann. 

The match swayed in favour from one team to the other as it went on. Both sides created numerous goal opportunities, some were scandalously missed by both sides, with Benfica perhaps now haunted by some as they were the eventual losers. The Seville misses will now be forgotten in their particular case.

Benfica played an extraordinary match, & looked at coldly & with hindsight could perfectly have been the winners of this Europe League Championship ( putting aside possible penalties not called). Obviously the hurt of the loss will be great & words of praise will mean nothing at this stage but they can go back home proud of what they have achieved & the great Club they are in European & World Soccer. In Sport someone or a team has to lose, tonight it went to Sevilla FC.

But as Football has shown us on numerous occasions the differences that tip the balance are marginal & most times down to the fine details. More determination, perhaps more willingness, maybe that extra effort & a more clearer & colder head to think under pressure.

The penalty shoot out is a lottery, but Benfica players Cardozo & Rodrigo missed their penalties & Sevilla FC goalkeeper Beto made the important saves. Two buckled perhaps under the immense pressure while the other grew in strength & with inspiration for history. That is Football.

The first European Football Title for season 2013 - 2014 falls to a Spanish Football Club with the soon to be played UEFA Champions League Final already guaranteed to fall to another Spanish Football Team with Real Madrid & Atletico de Madrid finalists. Sevilla FC are deserved winners & deserve a congratulations as Spanish Football deserves a big congratulations as well. Happy & festive night locally & especially in the city of Seville.

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PREVIEW EUROPA LEAGUE FINAL | SEVILLA FC POSSIBLE LINE-UP

The first of the two big European Football Finals will be played tonight when Spanish Football Club Sevilla FC meets Portuguese Club Benfica in the Final of the Europa League. Sevilla FC have won this tournament twice, back to back, in 2006 & 2007 while Benfica has a believed "black legend" on the Club - "Curse of Bela Guttmann" - losing its last 7 European Finals that sub-consciously seems to play a part & that they desperately wish to bury tonight. The Portuguese, apart from mystical notions, are considered favourites. 

Therefore, beforehand an expected top match of European Football that Football fans must see, scheduled for 20.45 (Italy time) from Turin. 

courtesy of "sport"

The speculated possible starting XI team line-up for Sevilla FC is:

Beto, Coke, Fazio, Pareja, Navarro, M´Bia, Carriço, Reyes, Ratikic, A. Moreno & Bacca.

There is a "cloud" over Gamiero & Vitolo, but last information suggest they are fit & may be surprise inclusions, or at least get a run if needed.

Good luck to Sevilla FC & may the better team win. 

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SPAIN NATIONAL TEAM LIST OF 30 PRELIMINARY PLAYERS | WORLD CUP 2014

Spanish Football National Selector & Coach Vicente Del Bosque has handed in a Preliminary list of 30 players for the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Brazil. The final & definitive list of 23 players will be handed in on the 25th of May, day after both Spanish Football Clubs Real Madrid - Atletico de Madrid play the UEFA Champions League. There will be 7 eliminated & disappointed players but Coach Del Bosque has had to be careful because there could be injury in the Champions League Final to a Spanish international that would have caused problems.

Novelties are young Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal & Athletic Club Bilbao midfielder Iturraspe. Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea takes the spot of injured Victor Valdes, while there are notable absences (elimination) with Real Madrid & Spanish Team veteran Alvaro Arbeloa & surprisingly Real Madrid midfielder Isco not being included.

Spanish Football National Squad: Full Preliminary list of 30 players:

Goalkeepers: Iker Casillas (Real Madrid), Pepe Reina (Nápoles) & David de Gea (Manchester United).

Defenders: Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid), Gerard Pique (Barcelona), Raúl Albiol (Napoles), Javier Martinez (Bayern de Múnich), Juanfran Torres (Atlético), Jordi Alba (Barcelona), César Azpiliciueta (Chelsea), Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid) & Alberto Moreno (Sevilla).

Midfielders: Xavi Hernandez (Barcelona), Xabi Alonso (Real Madrid), Andres Iniesta (Barcelona), Koke (Atletico), Sergio Busquets (Barcelona), Santi Cazorla (Arsenal), Ander Iturraspe (Athletic), Cesc Fabregas (Barcelona), Thiago Alcántara (Bayern de Munich), Juan Mata (Manchester United), David Silva (Manchester City), Pedro Rodríguez (Barcelona) & Jesús Navas (Manchester City).

Forwards: Diego Costa (Atletico), David Villa (Atlético), Fernando Torres (Chelsea), Álvaro Negredo (Manchester City) & Fernando Llorente (Juventus).

Who will be dropped from this list on the 25th May? Speculation is already on the way & they are surprises. Observers predict that barring last minute injuries names like David Villa, Fernando Torres, Iturrespe, Alberto Moreno, Raul Albiol & perhaps Negredo may be dumped. Remember no one knows expect Vicente del Bosque. Stay tuned!

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EUROPEAN GOLDEN BOOT AWARD | CRISTIANO RONALDO, LUIS SUAREZ OR LIONEL MESSI

The English Premier League season finished with Liverpool FC forward Luis Suarez the top "EPL" goalscorer for season 2013-2104 with 31 goals. However, this weekend the Uruguayan International was not able to score & thus was not able to shake off Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo who also has 31 goals this season. Both players are currently locked in the top spot of the "European Golden Boot Award" season 2013 - 2014 with Cristiano Ronaldo still with a Liga match to play next weekend.

The Real Madrid forward did not play last weekend nursing a muscle/knee complaint & with the UEFA Champions League in mind. However it is strongly speculated that Cristiano Ronaldo will play against RCD Espanyol next weekend in order to try to score & become the solitary leader in the "Highest Goalscorer in Europe Award" & win the "Golden Boot" in solitary. 

Third place Lionel Messi also plays next weekend against Atletico de Madrid in the Liga decider & he has currently 28 goals. The Argentine would need to score 3 goals to equal both Ronaldo & Suarez or 4 ( or more ) to overtake & win the "Golden Boot", as long as CR7 does not score.

Stay tuned as we will soon know the winner/s of the 2013-2014 European Golden Boot Award in 6 days.

Current European Golden Boot Award standings:

1. Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid, SP) = 31 goals = 62 POINTS
Luis Suarez ( Liverpool FC , ENG ) = 31 goals = 62 POINTS
3. Lionel Messi ( FC Barcelona , SP) = 28 goals = 56 POINTS
4. Diego Costa (Atletico de Madrid, SP) = 27 goals = 54 POINTS
5. J.Soriano (RB Salzburg, AUT) = 31 goals = 46 POINTS
6. C.Immobile (FC Torino, ITA ) = 22 goals = 44 POINTS
7. D.Sturidge (Liverpool FC, ENG) = 22 goals = 44 POINTS
8. A.Finnbogason ( Heerenveen, HOL) = 29 goals = 43,5 POINTS
9. Lewansowski (B Dortmund, GER) = 20 goals = 40 POINTS
10. Y Toure (Man City, ENG) = 20 goals = 40 POINTS

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SPANISH FOOTBALL LIGA ROUND 37 GAMES FINAL RESULTS

Was out of town this weekend with the family enjoying the fine weather & some relax. However, was connected to the radio to Spanish Football Round 37 Liga games & final results. Emotional & tense stuff as the bottom placed teams fight to avoid relegation while Atletico de Madrid, FC Barcelona & Real Madrid fight it out to win the Liga title.

After todays Round 37 final results, Real Madrid drops out of contention after losing 2 - 0 to Celta de Vigo, & the Spanish Football Liga title will be decided next week in the last Round (38) when FC Barcelona plays Atletico de Madrid.

Atletico de Madrid could have won the Liga title today had they defeated Malaga FC instead of their final 1 - 1 draw. But "the save of the season" by Willy Caballero from a Adrian opportunity in the last moment halted that possibility. FC Barcelona could be the Spanish Liga Champions if they win Atletico de Madrid next Saturday, thus its all down to the final wire. 

Spanish Football LIGA Round 37 games, results & goalscorers

Saturday Games:

Villarreal - Rayo V.
4 - 0
21' Uche 41' Bruno 54' Jonathan Pereira 63' Jaume Costa

Levante - Valencia
2 - 0
69' Ángel 80' Ivanschitz

Sunday Games:

Athletic - R. Sociedad
1 - 1
48' Muniain 74' Agirretxe

Getafe - Sevilla
1 - 0
69' Sergio Escudero

Celta de Vigo - R. Madrid
2 - 0
42' Charles
62' Charles

At. Madrid - Málaga
1 - 1
64' Samuel 73' Alderweireld

Granada - Almería
0 - 2
18' Verza (penalty)82' Aleix Vidal (penalty)

Betis - Valladolid
4 - 3
05' Braian Rodríguez
53' Jorge Molina
75' Rubén Castro
90' Juanfran

Javi Guerra 50' Peña 58' Javi Guerra (penalty)

Espanyol - Osasuna
1 - 1
20' Colotto 43' Acuña

Elche - Barcelona
0 - 0

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ATLETICO DE MADRID MAKES 13M€ OFFER FOR BRAZILIAN DAMIAO

According to Spanish Sports paper "AS" Spanish Football Club Atletico de Madrid has made a 13M€ offer to Brazilian Club Santos for Leandro Damiao. The Brazilian is also being followed by Italian Club Inter de Milan. Santos puts the transfer figure at around 15M€ & will accept the highest bidder, that is, the Club that is willing to pay more for the Brazilian will basically be the winner. However, the player may have a word especially if Atletico de Madrid manage to win the Spanish Liga &/or the UEFA Champions League.

Leandro Damiao is seen as a possible substitute for Atletico de Madrid forward Diego Costa. The speculation the past months is that Chelsea FC is very interested in acquiring the services of Costa for next season & maybe preparing a super offer that the player may not be able to say no.  

Stay tuned!

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SPANISH FOOTBALL LIGA TITLE 2013-2014 | A CLIFF HANGER

With the Real Madrid 1 - 1 away draw against Real Valladolid last night the Spanish Football Liga Title practically goes up in smoke for the former. The other two contenders, Atletico de Madrid & FC Barcelona will most likely decide the Spanish Football Championship in the last Round (38) when both meet. In fact, FC Barcelona was given as "dead" a week back but the Atletico de Madrid loss & the two Real Madrid draws in a row has put Barça back in the race,  & many think as favourites. 

The current situation is as follows:

The current Spanish classification table stands as follows,
1º Atletico de Madrid 36 games 88 points
2º FC Barcelona 36 85

3º Real Madrid 36 84

there are two Round left, just two games.

So what are the possibilities?
1. If Atletico de Madrid win (or draw) all their matches , they will be Spanish Champions
2. If FC Barcelona wins both their two games left (includes vs At Madrid last Round), they will be Spanish Champions
3. If Real Madrid win all their games, Barça lose both their games & Atletico just sums up one point of the two games left for them, they will be Spanish Champions.

Thus, Real Madrid is practically eliminated from the Spanish Football League Championship race, while both Atletico de Madrid & FC Barcelona will decide which of both claims the title in the last Round of Liga when both play each other. 

It´s a cliff hanger!

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