REAL SOCIEDAD WINS ABERDEEN 2 - 3 TO QUALIFY FOR THE EUROPA LEAGUE

Spanish Football Club Real Sociedad took a 1º leg Europa League Preliminary qualifying scoreline to Scotland to face Aberdeen for the return 2º leg clash. The end result of tonight s match was a 2 - 3 win to Real Sociedad giving the Spaniards a 2 - 5 aggregate score to take them into tomorrows Europa League season 2014 - 2015 draw.

The goals came in the following manner:

• Xabi Prieto, 27th min 0 -1
• Paulette , 44th min 1-1
• Reynolds, 56th min 2-1
• Xabi Prieto, 85 min (p) 2-2
• Markel, 91st min, 2-3

Although Real Sociedad got ahead via Xabi Prieto relatively early, the two goals from the Scottish team put the nerves into Real Sociedad which was going through its worst moments. The Scots had the opportunity to turn the tie around but the 85th min penalty to Real Sociedad which Xabi Prieto converted squashed all local hopes.

Congratulations to Real Sociedad. 

Tweet

Share

REAL SOCIEDAD 2 ABERDEEN FC 0 | EUROPA LEAGUE 1º LEG PRELIMINARY QUALIFIER

For Spanish Football Club REAL SOCIEDAD the season kicked into "serious mode" when they faced Scottish Club Aberdeen FC in the 1ºst leg Europa League preliminary qualifier. There was some doubts with the local fans as they initially missed the absence of Antoine Griezmann signed by Atletico de Madrid & Carlos Vela. However, the Spaniards managed an excellent result winning 2 - 0 & getting a grand advantage for the 2º leg match.

Overall, Real Sociedad was the better team with the goals coming in the second half thanks to Zurutuza in the 52nd min & Canales in the 67th min. Real Sociedad could have scored more but Iñigo Martinez hit the bar in the first half. 

Details:
REAL SOCIEDAD- 2:
Zubikarai; Zaldua, Elustondo, Iñigo, De la Bella; Bergara, Pardo (Granero, min. 82), Xabi Prieto (Agirretxe, min. 74), Canales; Chory Castro (Canales, min. 63) & Finngobason.
ABERDEEN F.C. - 0 :
Langfield; Logan, Anderson, Reynolds, Pawlett (Considine, min. 61) ; Hayes, Jack, Flood, Robson (Low, min, 70); McGin & Rooney (Goodwillie, min, 70).
GOALS:

1-0, min. 52: Zurutuza. 2-0, min. 67: Canales.

Tweet

Share

ATLETICO DE MADRID TARGETS GRIEZMANN OF REAL SOCIEDAD

Last time we mentioned French International & Real Sociedad forward Antoine Griezmann here we speculated that he could end up next season at Paris St Germain or Monaco.  I made the observation that Griezmann would be the perfect player Atletico de Madrid are looking for to fill the gap left open by David Villa.

Today Spanish Sports daily "AS" published that Atletico de Madrid has focused on young Griezmann & is attempting the signing. Initially Real Sociedad directed Atletico to the contract release clause figure of 30M€, however it seems the Real Sociedad position may have soften & talks are under way with a figure of 25M€ now in place.

The French player wishes to stay in Spain to play his Football & the Atletico de Madrid option is ideal. Real Sociedad will obviously fight hard to keep their talented forward but at least there are negotiations & this is positive news for Atletico de Madrid.

Stay tuned!

Tweet

Share

TOTTEMHAM HOTSPURS LOOKS AT GRIEZMANN OF REAL SOCIEDAD

Spanish Football Club Real Sociedad & French International player Antoine Griezmann is without doubt a superb player with just 23 years of age. The "youngster" is on the verge of exploding on the World Soccer scene & he may just need to make the jump to a more "resourceful" Club.

English Premier League Club Tottenham Hotspurs is showing some serious interest. According to local press the Club is thinking about putting up the 30M€ contract release clause (buy-out) in order to do with the services of the Frenchman. 

Tottenham Hotspurs will need however the OK from the player & they are working with their French goalkeeper Lloris (French National Team-mate) to see if he can help convince the Real Sociedad player to say yes to the English Club.

Said this, I have the sensation that Griezmann knows well his potential & may be waiting for a "better" offer from bigger Clubs. It is no secret that Atletico de Madrid has been eyeing the player, while Real Madrid has been also following Griezmann & could be thinking about him to replace Morata who has gone to Juventus FC. Added to all this is the interest from other major European Clubs in Italy, France & England.

Stay tuned!

Tweet

Share

REAL MADRID EARNS 57.4M€ WINNING UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

UEFA has released today the revenue distribution to Clubs for the Champions League competition season 2013-2014. The winner Real Madrid got the biggest UEFA payment with 57.4M€ ($78.3 M).

French Club Paris Saint-Germain was second in the revenue share, getting 54.4M€($74.2 M) despite losing in the quarter-finals stage of the Champions League competition. The reason for this is that PSG has big share of French television rights money. However, UEFA is withholding 20M€ ($27.3 M) as a fine for overspending.

Spanish Football Club Atletico Madrid, finalist & sub-Champion, was third with 50M € ($68.2M). UEFA reports that Manchester United, Juventus FC, Bayern Munich, Chelsea FC & FC Barcelona (41,97M€) all earned around 40M€ ($54.5M).The other Spanish Football Club Real Sociedad received 17,28M€, not bad at all.

Lastly, UEFA concluded that the 32 teams which qualified for the group stage shared a total of 904M€ ($1.23 billion) in prize money and bonuses. As you can see & understand why, most European Clubs strive to qualify for Champions League & once in attempt to remain at all cost. Participating (& winning) in Champions League is a priority objective & an obsession for some Clubs. The rewards are obvious & very, very lucrative.  

Tweet

Share

REAL SOCIEDAD QUALIFIES FOR THE SEMIS OF THE SPANISH CUP AFTER GAME SUSPENSION

We have the four remaining teams left in the Spanish Cup - Copa del Rey which will meet next week in semi-finals:

Atletico de Madrid - Real Madrid
Real Sociedad - FC Barcelona

Real Sociedad qualified for the Spanish Cup semis without playing their 2º leg return game against Racing de Santander. The players of Racing refused to play because their demand that the Club President Angel Lavin quit his position along with his Directives Team was not met. The Team Coach Paco Fernandez along with his players announced formerly to referee Gil Manzano 40 seconds after kick-off their decision & the game was suspended.

The Racing players have had no other choice than to take on this drastic decision after months of no salary payments & broken promises from Club President that they would soon be paid. The Club is in serious financial problems along with a fierce in-house political power struggle that has the historic Club in complete turmoil. The players are fully backed by the majority of the supporters & the people of Santander who also call that President Lavin & his team leave the Club immediately.

Sad state of affairs for Spanish Football, the historic Club of Racing de Santander & the city of Santander.

Tweet

Share

SPANISH FOOTBALL - LIGA - ROUND 21 MONDAY GAME RESULT

Spanish Football tonight with the last game of Round 21 Liga played. Real Sociedad comfortably defeated Elche 4 - 0 & gets closer to Villarreal on the Spanish League classification table just 1 point away currently in 6th spot. The objective of Real Sociedad is very clear, to get into the European positions. Its a different story with Elche which is low in the classification table & touching the relegation zone.

The goals came in the following order & times:

• Damien ( own goal ) from a Griezmann chip 2nd min , 1 - 0
• Griezmann 12th min , 2 - 0
• Carlos Vela 50th min, 3 - 0
• Griezmann 74th min, 4 - 0

The highlight tonight was Real Sociedad French young 22 year old forward Antoine Griezmann. He has evolved enormously in Spanish Football over the past year. This season the Frenchman is at a top class level & if he continues this way he is heading direct to World Soccer Stardom. His "rebellious" attitude has cost him a place in the French National Team but I think that Coach Deschamps will have to reconsider him for the upcoming World Cup in Brazil. Not to do so will be a serious mistake.

I don´t see how Real Sociedad can hold this "gem" of a player much longer as he is the target of most of the big European Football Clubs. Griezmann is definitely one of my favourite players & I predict a huge future ahead for the youngster if injury stays away & he can keep his head focused.  Superb exhibition tonight from Antoine.

 

Tweet

Share

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL RESULTS | REAL MADRID - REAL SOCIEDAD

UEFA Champions League had two Spanish Football Clubs in action tonight with their last Group match duties. Real Madrid as expected qualified as leader of Group B while Real Sociedad said goodbye last placed of Group A & without even qualifying for the Europa League.

Following are the final results - scores & the goalscorers

Real Madrid won Copenhague 0 - 2 giving the Spanish Football Club 5 wins & a draw in theie Group participation. In the process Real Madrid scored its 800 th goal in Champions League, 31 straight games scoring & Cristiano Roanldo who scored the second in the 48th min managed the record of being the goalscorer with 9 goals in the Champions League Group phase surpassing Crespo (2002-03), Inzaghi (2002-03) & Van Nistelrooy which have previously the record with 8 goals. Apart CR7 equals Van Nistelrooy as the third all time Champions League goalscorer.

The match was relatively dominated by the Spaniards on a difficult & uneven ground that made ball control very difficult. The Danes created "luke warm" chances & they only came close when Copenhague player Delaney had correctly a goal disallowed when he fouled goalie Iker Casillas on the goal line in the 40th min. The Danes had some chances in the 2º half but they were not effective as Real Madrid missed many more including a post by CR7 in the 75th min &  missed a penalty by Cristiano Ronaldo in the 87th min. Towards the end of the game Bale also missed a good opportunity.

The first half gave the first goal to Real Madrid in the 25th min when Modric did his magic & curled a perfectly placed ball into the top left corner of the goal. Beautiful execution from the "man of the match" - my opinion - who was later taken off late in the game with a knock.

Names to mention for Real Madrid are Pepe & Nacho solid in defence, Xabi Alonso great in the centre of the field & Benzema who did a "dirty job" tonight of contention & setting up his team-mates. 

Real Sociedad said goodbye from Europe without being able to give their home fans the pleasure of at least a victory. The Group A game finished with a 0 - 1 result in favour of the Germans Bayern Laverkusen. The Spanish team did not stop trying but failed to get pass the solid German defence & then finish off chances once created. Real Sociedad forward Griezmann had a bad night & could not convert his many chances into goal, it was the tonic of the night for Real Sociedad which ends the Champions League Group adventure with 0 points.

The winner came from a set piece to which Leverkusen player Toprak managed to score in the 50th min. It was enough as the Germans who qualify for the next stage of the Champions League competition.

Tomorrow Spanish Football Clubs FC Barcelona & Atletico de Madrid are in action in their respective Champions League Groups.

Tweet

Share

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL RESULTS | REAL SOCIEDAD - REAL MADRID GAMES

UEFA Champions League Group matches continued tonight with Spanish Football Clubs Real Sociadad & Real Madrid with their respective matches. Bad news away in the Ukraine for Real Sociedad & good news for Real Madrid with their home duty. Here is a brief summary of events, the final results-scores & all the goalscorers.

Ukrainian Club Shakhtar Donetsk won 4 - 0 Real Sociedad in their Group A match. The home team managed to grab second place - for now - of the Group & get ahead by 1 point over German Club Leverkusen. Sadly the loss by Real Sociedad puts them last on the Group table which eliminates them from the next rounds of Champions League & unfortunately also does not make the Spanish Club eligible for the Europa League competition.

Too many mistakes by the Real Sociedad defence allowing Shakhtar to score relatively easy goals, plus Shakhtar player Douglas exploded mid second half to put on his magic & sink further a demoralized Real Sociedad as they saw their European dream fade out. The goals came in the following manner:

• Luiz Adriano 37th min 
• Alex Teixeira 48th min
• Douglas 68th min ( brilliant goal)
• Douglas 87th min 

The Ukrainians play their qualification into the next round of Champions gainst Bayern Leverkusen in the last Group game. Shaktar needs a draw or a win , while a win by the Germans puts them through!

Real Madrid hosted fellow Group B Club Galatasaray with the Turks needing a win to keep firm their Champions League hopes. However the final result was a 4 - 1 victory to Real Madrid who ran over Galatasaray in the 2º half with only 10 men as Sergio Ramos saw a red card mid 1ºst half. Galatasaray are third with 4 points with Juventus second with 6 points, & both will meet in the last Group game where only a victory will suffice for Galatasaray. Real Madrid guarantees the top spot of Group B with 4 victories & 1 draw & currently 13 points.

Real Madrid was without Cristiano Ronaldo & this allowed young Jese a run, but that was short lived when Ramos was sent off leaving his team with 10 men. Jese was sacrificed for another youngster defender Nacho. 

The game started with Bale missing a "sitter" in the 3rd min which he later made up with a screamer free-kick goal in the 37th min to open things up for the Spanish Club. However, Galatasaray answered immediately after Drogba superbly found Bulut who equalized in the 40th min. Things looked equal at this point with Real Madrid still finding themselves in a disadvantage but the Turks "strangely" disappeared thereafter. They nearly redeemed themselves in the 2º half  but Casillas made a huge save from a Drogba header.

The second half saw Di Maria, Isco, Bale, Illara & Xabi Alonso ( on for Casemiro ) all lift in their game with a special mention to defender Arbeloa who "starred" & was pivotal. Alvaro Arbeloa scored the second goal in the 51st min, missed a close one soon after & then set up the third for Di Maria in the 62nd min. The last goal was an Isco "gem" with some class individual dribbling ( plus some luck ) that culminated in his goal & the Real Madrid 4th in the 81st min.

It was an amazing finish from a team down 10 men & surprising to watch the ineffectiveness of Galatasaray under such circumstances. The Turks now play Juventus for the prized second place of Group B were only a victory serves Galatasaray while the Italians have margin to at least go through with a draw. 

Tweet

Share

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE RESULTS | REAL MADRID - REAL SOCIEDAD GROUP GAMES

UEFA Champions League action tonight with two Spanish Football Clubs - Real Madrid & Real Sociedad - with Group match duties. Here is a brief summary of the main events, the final results - scores & all the goalscorers.

It was a virtual final for Juventus as they needed at least not to lose & thus stay in touch in the Champions League tournament, while Real Madrid needed at least a draw to assure virtually their presence in the next phase. The local atmosphere was ripe for Juventus & the first half was theirs as the Italians went from cold to hot, putting Real Madrid on the back foot as the first half went on. Juventus was more intense & managed to bring out the "defensive disorganization" that Real Madrid has been suffering the last few games. Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas had to make a few very important saves to keep his team alive. However, Juventus managed to get their prize when Real Madrid defender Varane fould Pogba in the penalty area. Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal fired home for goal in the 42nd min. 

The second half started with Real Madrid more concentrated & a terrible mistake by Juventus defender Caceres allowed Cristiano Ronaldo to rob the ball & that was enough for the Portuguese star to brilliantly put in the equalizer in the 52nd min. This lifted Real Madrid as Juventus was now on the ropes & Xabi Alonso hit the cross-bar in the 55th min. Soon after Cristiano Ronaldo again robbed the ball & run away this time finding Gareth Bale on the right flank who controlled & fired in their second goal in the 60th min.

Juventus needed at least a point to stay alive in Champions & they bravely reacted to find the equalizer in the 65th min when Spanish International Fernando Llorente headed in the equalizer. From here both sides attempted the winner but as time ran out they settled for the draw.

Juventus would have preferred the win but the draw keeps them alive in Group B. Real Madrid managed the objective but again did not convince fully with their play & especially in defence. 

Real Sociedad drew 0 - 0 with Manchester United & basically puts them out of the next stage of Champions League. The Spanish club will now have to look to secure third place of Group A to think about the Europa League. The match was fairly even with moments to Manchester United which could have sealed the victory. It was a even first half with the second half full of action. Manchester United forward Van Persie hit the post in the 65th min & then failed to convert a penalty in the 70th min. Real Sociedad tried hard in the latter part of the game but could not break through the Manchester United set up that allowed the English team to create their own chances as Real Sociedad left spaces in their attacks. Manchester United player Fellaini received a red card in the 90th min but the Spanish team could not take the numerical advantage as time had run out. 

Tomorrow more Champions League action with Spanish Football Clubs Atletico de Madrid & FC Barcelona up for their Group duties.

Tweet

Share

REAL MADRID - REAL SOCIEDAD | UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE MATCH PREVIEWS - POSSIBLE LINE-UPS

UEFA Champions League Group games commence tonight with two Spanish Football Clubs in action: Real Madrid & Real Sociedad. As habitual Spanish Sports paper "Sport" elaborate info-graphs with pre-match info & their idea of a possible starting 11 team line-up.

Real Madrid travel to Turin to play Juventus. Attractive match beforehand were the Italians are taking this as a final. They need to win - no other choice - in order to keep their UEFA Champions League hopes alive this season. Real Madrid will feel the pressure of the local team & fans while they go in with plenty of doubts especially in the defensive line. Real Madrid only needs a draw ( 1 º point ) to automatically secure the next stage of the tournament, although while upfront they are overwhelming, their defence has troubles & Juventus will look to exploit. Real Madrid last won at Turin in 1972!

The speculated Real Madrid starting 11 team line-up against Juventus is:

Casillas, Arbeloa, Varane, S.Ramos, Marceloa, Xabi Alonso, Khedira, Modric ( Isco ), Bale, C.Ronaldo & Benzema.  

Spanish club Real Sociedad host Manchester United & they to must win to keep their hopes alive,  & in the worst case attempt to secure the third spot of the Group for Europa League qualification. The Spanish Club has experienced a lift in their play in the last weeks with convincing local Liga victories which will give them confidence for this game.

The speculated Real Sociedad starting 11 team line-ups against Manchester United is:

Bravo, C.Martinez, M.Gonzalez, I.Martinez, De La Bella, Zurutuza, Bergara, Xabi Prieto, Vela, Griezmann & Seferovic.

All the said line-ups are speculative & may change before kick off time. Good luck to the Spanish Teams!

Tweet

Share

REAL MADRID - REAL SOCIEDAD GAME RESULT | UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Sweet & sour results for Spanish Football after the two participating Clubs in Group A & B gave mix results. Here is a brief summary of the main events & the final results for Real Madrid & Real Sociedad in their respective games along with all the goalscorers.

Good news for Real Madrid which won 2 - 1 their match against Juventus that keeps them top of Group B with a healthy points margin over the other Clubs with 9 points. This victory virtually gives Real Madrid a ticket to the next stage of the UEFA Champions League while it puts Juventus in dire straits after Turkish Club Galatasaray won their game. 

The Italians will be quiet upset with the result after defender Chellini was harshly sent off in the 47th min with a red card after "elbowing" Cristiano Ronaldo. It made no real difference to the game, Juventus took off forward Fernando Llorente to strengthen the midfield to defend more but Real Madrid played their worst Football thereafter. The second half was a poor performance from Real Madrid which will not put aside worries on the teams  Football offer with the "Clasico" coming up next Saturday.

Juventus nearly surprised Real Madrid goalie Casillas with a long range driver at the beginning of the clash, but it was Real Madrid that shook off that "surprise" & opened the scoreline when Cristiano Ronaldo converted a brilliant Di Maria precision pass into a goal in the 4th min. However, strangely enough Real Madrid failed to power on & gave the initiative to Juventus which got their reward when forward Fernando Llorente equalized in the 22nd min from a Iker Casillas earlier save that put the ball into the path of the Juventus player. Real Madrid smartened up again & won a penalty when Sergio Ramos was tackled & thrown to the ground in a corner. Cristiano Ronaldo  converted the penalty into the second goal in the 28th min to put Real Madrid back ahead.

The second half was strange, Real Madrid played badly with Juventus down to 10 men. Benzema was again non-existent & unfortunately is in danger of losing his starting position to Morata & Bale did little in his 25 mins. The best player for Real Madrid was Di Maria who was given an ovation when substituted late in the match. Lots of questions without answers at Real Madrid.

The sour taste for Spanish Football was the 1 - 0 loss of Real Sociedad to Manchester United in their Group A game. The negative result for Real Sociedad virtually puts them out of the next stage of  the UEFA Champions League competition barring a miracle.

They were unlucky with the winning goal that came early & was an own goal from Sociedad defender Iñigo Martinez in the 2 min. Real Sociedad bravely attempted to hold back Manchester United & hit the post twice - 42nd min Griezmann & 53rd min De La Bella - but could not find the equalizer.

Manchester United also were unlucky not the have scored more goals as they too hit the post in the 63rd min with a Valencia shot & missed numerous opportunities to shut the match.

Unlucky night for Real Sociedad but a deserved win for Manchester United which never gave the initiative away, although Real Sociedad was brave & honoured themselves in defeat.


Tweet

Share

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE PRE-MATCH | REAL MADRID - REAL SOCIEDAD POSSIBLE STARTING 11 TEAMS

It is the turn tonight of the other two Spanish Football Clubs  - Real Sociedad & Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League Group matches. As habitual pre-match Spanish Sports daily "Sport" has created infographs detailing the game & putting forward their speculated possible starting XI team line-ups.  

The Real Madrid vs Juventus Group B match is a historical European Classic & possibly the most attractive match of the night. Real Madrid come into this clash below their best level & Juventus from a 2-4 whipping by Fiorentina in their Seria A match. A win by Real Madrid tonight will clear their road towards the next stage of the competition. Juventus looks to "clean its image" & has a powerful midfield which will give Real Madrid problems, the power of Pogba, Vidal & skill of Pirlo will keep Real Madrid busy. 

Plenty of questions in the possible line-ups, with Real Madrid still in doubt with Arbeloa ( Carvajal ) , Varane ( Pepe ) , Modric (Illaramendi) & if isco or Bale starts. Will all theses "unknowns" , the speculated Real Madrid starting 11 team line-up against Juventus is:

Casillas, Arbeloa, Varane, Ramos, Marcelo, Khedira, Modric, Di Maria, Bale (Isco), C Ronaldo & Benzema.

Top game,  & dangerous for Real Madrid.

Real Sociedad travels to England to play Manchester United in their Group A match. It´s a must win game for Real Sociedad if they wish to keep alive their Champions League options. Manchester United is not at their best level & have their "weakness" in the midfield area but at "Old Traffford" they still remain the favourites & have a powerful forward line. 

The speculated Real Sociedad starting 11 team line-up against Man Utd. is:

Bravo, C Martinez, Mikel, Iñigo Martinez, De La Bella, Markel, Zurutuza, Vela , Griezmann, X Prieto & Agirretxe.

Just to remind you the above line-ups are speculations  It is more than likely that Coaches of all sides will have aces up their sleeve & will give us last minute surprises.

Tweet

Share

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE RESULTS | REAL MADRID - REAL SOCIEDAD GROUP GAMES

The last two Clubs representing Spanish Football in the UEFA Champions League had their spotlight tonight. Real Madrid hosted FC Copenhagen in their Group B match & Real Sociedad travelled to Germany to play with Bayern Leverkusen. Below is a summary of the main events with the final results - scores & all the goalscorers.

All eyes on Real Madrid & Coach Ancelotti after their terrible performance & loss to At Madrid in Liga last Saturday. The days previous to this match the squad had some intensive "self analysis" & promised to get back onto winning ways. Tonight Coach Ancelotti brought in "fresh blood" with Casillas, Carvajal, Varane & Marcelo back into the team which gave more penetration down the flanks as it was later proved all match.

The Danes started strongly & gave Real Madrid problems while they settled. Then a Marcelo pass found Cristiano Ronaldo in the 21st min to open the scoring. FC Copenhagen stood firm & could have equalized in the 40th min after Casillas failed to clear an aerial pass that hit the bar to have Modric clear off the line. Close!

The second half was a one way road for Real Madrid & was clearly the best 45 mins from Di Maria. He made an extraordinary pass for Cristiano Ronaldo to head his second in 65th min & he personally ( Di Maria ) scored the next two remaining goals, one a long range curler in the 70th min & another after a Danish defender fumble in the 90th min.  In the last moments Real keeper Casillas had to make 3 great saves in a row to stop the Danes scoring. 

Overall, a better performance from Real Madrid but - with all respects - FC Copenhagen is not a team to really be used as a measure to see improvements. The problem upfront still is patent with Karim Benzema who made some assistances - the 2º goal pass to Di Maria - but little else.

Final result 4 - 0 to Real Madrid, three points & top spot of Group B.  

Real Sociedad cruelly went down 2 - 1 to German Club Bayern Leverkusen in their Group A match. Bayern Leverkusen played well & in line with most German Clubs which are physically strong, tactically ordered & tough to crack. However, Real Sociedad had their chances & perhaps here was the reason for their loss, the incapacity to convert those "vital moments" into goals.

However, an unlucky moment comes to mind in the 35th min when a Griezmann goal was disallowed for offside. The replays seem to indicate that it was legal & this could have changed things for Real Sociedad.

The Germans opened the scoring in the 45th min with Rolfes & that was a psychological blow. But Real Sociedad equalized with a penalty in the 51st that Carlos Vela initially missed but scored the rebound. Then Carlos Vela missed a "sitter" in a one - on - one action that could have changed the course of the match. But Football punishes those who miss & Bayern Laverkusen took the victory in the 92nd min with a goal free-kick from Hegeler that was unstoppable. 

Final score 2 -1 to Bayern Laverkusen that was earned,  & that will leave Real Sociedad unhappy & cursing their missed chances. Tweet

Share

FC BARCELONA | AMAZING TOUCH FOOTBALL AGAINST REAL SOCIEDAD | VIDEO

Some debate this week over if FC Barcelona under Coach Martino had "abandoned" the ball possession philosophy so characteristic of the Clubs identity in recent years. The "Barça way" of Football has a long tradition that stems back from former Coach Cruyff & reaches sublime heights under ex Coach Josep Guardiola.

Last weekend Liga match against Rayo Vallecano caused "alarms" to sound when Barça only registered 49% ball possession & we witnessed numerous long balls by-passing the midfield. FC Barcelona won & well, & some players insist that Barça needs to add repertoire to their Football offering seeing most opponents have studied well the "Barça way" & have come up with neutralizing tactics. Real Madrid & Bayern Munich of last season come to mind.

What the Rayo Vallaecano match also showed us is that the vital play makers of the "ball possession" method did not start: Busquets & Iniesta for example. Yesterday against Real Sociedad Coach Martino put on from the start all together Busquets, Iniesta, Xavi Hernandez, Messi  & a new element in Neymar that brought back all the ingredients & parts of the Barça touch Football way. The result was a exhibition of Football -especially the 1º half - that delighted spectators & a gave 4 - 1 win. 

Below is a video that highlights "touch Football" taken to the maximum expression  



FC Barcelona is adding repertoire, new options in case the situation calls for something different. Yesterday showed us all that Barça has not forgotten their "ball control" ways nor the rapid one touch manners which has made the Club famous & given numerous titles over the past years dominating World Club Football.

Tweet

Share

GALATASARAY 1 REAL MADRID 6 | REAL SOCIEDAD 0 SHAKHTAR D 2 | UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE GROUP MATCH RESULTS

The long awaited UEFA Champion League season kicked off tonight with two Spanish Football Clubs represented for Group game duties. Real Sociedad hosted at home Ukrainian Club Shaktar D in Group A, while Real Madrid travelled to Turkey to play Galatasaray in their Group B obligations. 

Here is a brief summary of the main events, with all the final results-scores plus the goalscorers.

Turkish Club Galatasaray lost 1 - 6 to Real Madrid. An "unreal" & distorting scoreline because Galatasaray were severally punished in a night were they deserved more reward. The Turks started very well with maximum pressure on all fronts that put the Spaniards on the back foot most of the first half. In fact, I would say that the first half was mostly Galatasaray & what let them down was their lack of ability of converting their numerous opportunities in front of goal. Part of the lack of effectiveness was thanks to Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas who started & made a fabulous save from a Felipe Melo shot early in the 6th min. The bad news for Casillas was that he injured himself in the 1st min when he clashed with team-mate Sergio Ramos defending a ball. Casillas was substituted for Diego Lopez who in turn later made his own brilliant saves to keep out the Turks & Real Madrid alive.

In the only real chance for Real Madrid, a Di Maria long pass found Isco who magically control the ball, lost his opponent & scored the first in the 33rd min. This action was to precisely illustrate the story for the rest of the match: Galatasaray failed to convert their chances, while Real Madrid nailed theirs. 

Luck then went against Galatasaray when Pepe & Drogba clashed for a ball & the latter fell badly on his shoulder which forced him to be substituted & this changed around the team set-up & tactics which was to be paid dearly later in the second half.

The second half saw Galatasaray push hard to find an equalizer, but once again a single piece of individual magic in the Real Madrid midfield found Benzema alone who sprinted in the 54th min to score the second. From here the "wind was pushed out" of the Turks & Cristiano Ronaldo began his personal show of goals & assistances. 

The Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo got the third for Real Madrid in the 63rd min, a his second & teams fourth in the 67th min, an assistance later to allow Benzema to score his second & teams fifth in the 81st min & lastly his HAT-TRICK in the 90th min & Real Madrid sixth goal.

Galatasaray rightly got a consolation goal when Bulut tipped a pass into the net in the 84th min.

Final result 1 - 6 with Real Madrid getting the three points, top spot of Group B. Great game from Di Maria, excellent Ronaldo as expected, very nice work from Modric, Benzema worked hard & Gareth Bale looked good when he came on mid second half as he assisted with his pass a Ronaldo goal & tried his luck as well during the time he was on.

Different outcome at San Sebastian where Real Sociedad hosted Shakhtar Donetsk & lost 0 - 2 in their Group A match. The Spaniards played well the first half creating chances, but the Ukrainians were physically stronger & waited for their chances to arrive.

Real Sociedad lessened in their intensity & ball control as the match advanced & Shakhtar pounced when given half the chance mid second half when Teixeira scored in the 65th min & then again in the 87th min.

The Spaniards claimed a penalty in this game but the truth is they were fairly defeated by a more stronger, patient & experienced Champions League team.

Tweet

Share

REAL SOCIEDAD POSSIBLE STARTING TEAM 11 VS SHAKTHAR | CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Champions League is back & for many its great news as we are talking the "Best Football in the World". Spanish Football Club Real Sociedad returns to the European Football elite after an 8 year absence hosting tonight at their home ground Shakthar Donetsk.

Spanish Sports paper "Sport" have made up the below image which highlight their speculated & possible starting 11 line ups for tonight.

The possible starting 11 team line-up for Real Sociedad against Shakthar is

Bravo, Estrada, Mikel, Iñigo Martinez, De La Bella, Xabi Prieto, Markel, Zurutuza, Carlos Vela, Griezmann & Seferovic.

As said, they are speculated starting line-ups & may well change before kick-off. Good luck to Real Sociedad.
Tweet

Share

REAL SOCIEDAD 2 OLYMPIQUE LYON 0 ( 4 - 0 AGG ) | REAL SOCIEDAD IN CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Spanish Football was on the European Football stage as one of its Clubs Real Sociedad took a 2 - 0 aggregate advantage over French Club Olympique Lyon in the 2º leg match of  the preliminary Champions League phase & attempt to join FC Barcelona, Real Madrid & Atletico de Madrid in the Group draw to be held tomorrow at Monaco.

Fantastic home atmosphere as the local fans embraced with warmth Real Sociedad for this vital & historic match. The end result was a 2 - 0 win that settled the tie 4-0 on aggregate to the Spanish Football Club & gave them the ticket to Champions League.

Deserved victory throughout both matches, with a serious, concentrated & brave performance tonight keeping out the formidable French team & creating many occasions of goals. Many opportunities that were missed by Real Sociedad that created some frustration but that was released when Carlos Vela headed a Griezmann pass in the 67th min.  The Mexican International forward Vela then got the second goal in the very last moment ( 90+1 min) to round off a great night. Great performance from mentioned players & Seferovic who was also excellent & team inspiring.

The city of San Sebastian & Spanish Football is celebrating tonight.

Tweet

Share

REAL SOCIEDAD WINS 0 - 2 OLYMPIQUE LYON | 1º LEG CHAMPIONS LEAGUE PRELIMINARY QUALIFIER

Excellent result for Spanish Football Club Real Sociedad defeating Olympique Lyon 0 - 2 in the 1ºst leg of the Champions League preliminary qualifier. Deserved victory away that should make things a little more easier for the return 2º leg where Lyon will have to go all out.

The match was settled by two extraordinary goals that will be travelling around the global in the next 24 hours. When Real Sociedad was still nervous & struggling to find themselves, young Griezmann appeared & scored the first goal in the 16th min in an overhead fashion that was absolutely spectacular.

This allowed Real Sociedad to settle & dominate the match, while Real Sociedad goalie Bravo kept the occasional dangers from Lyon out as they arrived in his area, with great save included.

The second half started as the first ended & in a counter-attack Real Sociedad forward Seferovic received the ball from 40 mts & surprised everyone - & the Lyon goalie - by shooting at goal to score the second in the 50th min. Marvellous long range effort that caught everyone out.

Then Real Sociedad decided to settle for the result & this gave back the initiative to Lyon which created chances for them & they even hit the bar from a corner. However Lyon defender Bisevac received a red card in the 75th min & left his team with 10 men & in doing so without steam. Real Sociedad settled again , controlled & nearly got a third. 

Real Sociedad leaves France with a better than expected result & has to defend it well & keep out Lyon in the return game. They are close to achieving a Champions League place for this season, lets hope they can hold on. If they play like tonight they should be able to do so & create Club history again. 

Tweet

Share

REAL MADRID CF PRESENTS NEW SIGNING ILLARRAMENDI

Real Madrid CF has officially presented the 23 year old midfielder from Real Sociedad Asier Illarramendi to the Spanish media.

Signs for 6 years at 2.5M€ per season.

Tweet

Share