Happy Birthday Cristiano Ronaldo

February 5, 2013

I've been very truthful when I said that Cristiano Ronaldo was my reason why I had loved and is loving football. I first saw him on a commercial and have to admit I got curious because he really is good looking and the description to him says he is the most famous footballer. When I saw him play, I understand it too well why.

I've read a lot about him, positive and negative alike. I've watched past videos, I've almost watched every game of Real Madrid, and his stints with Portugal, there's no doubt he is one of the best, for us Madridista - he is the best. The way he gives everything is just amazing, talent-wise, clearly he have it. I adore his long-range shots and free-kicks, I am perplex with his aerial prowess, I am in awe of his amazing speed. Watching him was never boring. Outside the pitch, he is one interesting person. He have the antics that says he is arrogant, with his goal celebrations that were bragging (well, he really have the right to do so), with some of his interviews where he says what he really have in mind, when he doesn't sugar coat on things, but I personally believe he is a person with a very good heart. What he did to help others were an example of it, whenever he speaks something about his son and family and friends, you'll see how sincere he is. I felt his good heart. I felt, just like everyone, he has a passion towards people. I felt those who knew him close enough are lucky.

This will not be enough to describe how I like the guy much. One thing is for sure, he brings so much joy to me, whenever he is playing and out of the pitch. He inspires me. What he have done and will do for Real Madrid, I am just thankful.

I'm glad there's Cristiano Ronaldo. On his birthday, with fellow Madridistas, we celebrate it as well and talk about the person who had made our footballing world more than amazing. We decided to do it at McDonalds, where he said in an interview one time he want to go without being notice! hahaha! And we had this wonderful cake too!

If Cristiano Ronaldo will one time read this, I wanted to say thank you so much. And continue to be the best that you already are. We are with you, no matter what!

God bless you more Cristiano Ronaldo! Gracias!

Our birthday cake for Cristiano Ronaldo

How we wish we can treat him to Mcdo one day! LOL

Madridista Aissa and Cristel

To Fellow Madridista - Thank You

Living in the Philippines, it was a bit hard to follow and support my fave football team Real Madrid. Of course, there's internet that can provide you with all the news, but the feeling of being one of the fans is not the same if you don't have friends who love them like I do. The feeling of appreciating the team won't be the same if you don't have someone to share it with. The thing is, I only have 4 friends I personally know who love Real Madrid. The good thing was 2 of them are my workmates so we got to exchange our views, watch the games together, got happy with the wins together and got sad with the losses too. But, just like the old cliche, the more the merrier.

Social networking sites is one of the best medium to interact with fellow fans. In twitter, I am following the most awesome Real Madrid info accounts, they share news, pictures, their views about the game, more importantly, their love for Real Madrid. Rmadridgirl is one the best that I've followed so far, very truth on her views, but still loyal, and funny too! Then there's Rmadridinfo, which are my fave when it comes to play by play updates, then the the facts account, like RealMadridplace, RealEsparta, MadridistaFacts, InfoCristiano, and even the spanish one, RMFutbolOnline. My fave of all though was Madridismo.org. Their tag 'for the fans, by the fans' is just the best. They share the same passion toward Real Madrid, but at the same time, being equal and truthful with all the news. They had their own pics, vids, had their own questions at press conferences, and they will share you what they had experienced. Whenever I'm reading, checking their pics, vids, their articles, I felt at home. I felt I'm in Spain, I felt being a true Madridista. They had their fanzone at their site where I get to share my feelings, my views, and I got to chat with some fans too! It's awesome! Now, they just totally made my day (probably this will go on for weeks) when they took time to do my request about their personal accounts and experience upon meeting the Real Madrid themselves. I'm just asking for some few views, they've given me so much more.

It's my plan/dream now to visit Spain one day. I wanted to see Real Madrid's game, I wanted to sing for them at the stadium. That's all part of my plan, but more than that, I also dream of meeting this fellow Madridista as well that had made me felt right at home! I'm very much looking forward to that guys! Again, you are all the best!

alcr7

Real Madrid vs Getafe and El Clasico

January 27

La Liga - Santiago Bernabeu FT: 4-0

(Higuain, Cristiano Hat trick)

The game was being anticipated because of a lot of things. What will be Real Madrid's game, after all the issues that was brought up? After Iker's injury? 

They started the game with a get-well soon shirt to Iker. Adan played the post and he was welcomed by the fans. Before this too, a new (and somewhat old) Madridista was brought to Real Madrid as Diego Lopez, a former Madridista, came back and signed by the team. It's a good news for all.

The game was at noon and the team started a little slow. They had some chances but Getafe was able to held down Madrid, with their goalkeeper being the man of the first half making some awesome saves esp against Cristiano Ronaldo. Then second half, it was the usual Real Madrid, taking advantage of their attacks. Sergio Ramos opened up the scoring when Getafe goalkeeper weren't able to clear the ball on a corner. Getafe were complaining because they're claiming Carvalho had fouled the keeper but goal was allowed. It was a good welcome back for Sergio Ramos who had spent 4 games on ban. Then an awesome 10 minutes of Cristiano Ronaldo. First was from a brilliant through ball from Ozil, second from a brilliant cross of Di Maria, then from a penalty conceded by Modric. It was his 16th hat trick, and he scored it perfectly, with left foot, header and a right foot. Ozil and Di Maria was amazing for those assists as well. Cristiano was subbed after the penalty shot by Benzema for precautionary measures as well to prepare for the El Clasico.

CR7 just set some records too having scored 100 goals in the home turf with 87 appearances. He also have his 300 club goals too. It was pretty amazing. He's the best in the world. It was a pretty good warm-up for him going to the Clasico in Copa del Rey, as Messi- on his match scored four goals.

January 30

Copa del Rey Semifinals 1st leg

Santiago Bernabau FT: 1-1

Regardless how some said that El Clasico was too overrated, many are still anticipating of it. There are some games too but I doubt few had not concentrate on the Clasico. It was still the main match of every match.

First half had a lot of chances going on. As early as 2 minutes Cristiano Ronaldo made his presence felt attacking the defense and Pique had no other choice but to tackle him hard as he heads into the area. Ronaldo conceded a freekick at the left wing, close to the box. Barca keeper Pinto was awesome to save the shot though. It was a pretty freekick but the keeper was prepared for it. Some more minutes, some more chances for both teams, some rare misses as well.

Then came second half, an error in defense cause Real Madrid to concede a goal as Fabregas intercept a lose ball by Carvalho and made it one against one to Lopez. He slot the goal home and Barca led the game. But despite that, despite Barca also leading in possession, despite them holding off Cristiano, there's one kid, his first time El Clasico who's already doing havoc againt the Barca offense. Varane had always been solid when Mou put him to start, this was just like the usual. But it wasn't. He's definitely more amazing. Xavi of Barca could have put it to 2-0 but Verane was there to block the shot in the goal line. He's also one of those that made Messi's life a little difficult with Essien, Alvaro and Xabi Alonso. Then on the 81st minute, Ozil create a brilliant cross and to cap Verane's performance, he scored on a header to equalizes. For a 19 year old, for a first timer, the match had been perfect for him. Despite missing some key players with Iker and Pepe's injury and Sergio, Di Maria and Coentrao serving suspensions, drawing against a powerful team was a very good result. And the fact was we could have won it with all those close chances as well. It was a good game. I'm just equally happy it's over because it's nerve wracking, but I can't wait for the second leg anymore!

Cristiano Ronaldo's scoring streak in El Clasico ended with 6. He played well but Barca's defense to him was equally effective too. Madridista were okay with the result.

This game certainly put some rest on some more issues as before this game, Sara Carbonero, Iker Casillas journalist girlfriend stated that there was indeed some separations of the players to Mou. Madridista were surprised something like this will came from her. Personally, I am amazed, I just thought iker just tried hushing it up and then there's that. Some take it against Sara, some take it against Iker, but the Clasico overshadowed it somehow.

It's always a priviledge to watch this game! Always. I'm not going to get tired of it. It's all good.

Side notes;

After this game, there was a news from Punto Pelota, that Messi insulted Arbeloa when the latter was in the parking lot with his family. No one had confirmed that news yet but it did seems Messi was upset during the game, he has an aweful one, he had no shots on target at all. If it's true too I'm sure it will be forgotten soon enough. It doesn't matter to us anymore, we are just happy about the result, we are happy with Varane's game and some other. I'm glad to see them.

I've also seen the alleged slapping of Arbeloa and Xabi to Messi, all I can say is - it's quite hilarious. :)

Hala Madrid!

alcr7

Real Madrid vs Valencia Week

The two teams met thrice in a span of nine days, starting out in Copa del Rey at the Santiago Bernabau, before heading out to Mestalla for 2 more, one in La Liga second round, then Copa del Rey's second leg. Valencia was the same team that Real Madrid met the first time to start the La Liga season and it was when Real Madrid drop two important points. Going to the first match, Real Madrid drop two more points against their game with Ossasuna, when Cristiano Ronaldo didn't play as he has to served suspension and the team went on to a scoreless draw.

January 16

1st leg of Copa del Rey; Santiago Bernabau FT: 2-0 (Benzema, Guardado OG)

This was the comeback game of Marcelo after being sidelined for almost three months, then of Cristiano after serving a one game suspension. Even Coentrao is back and he and Marcelo played each halves. Valencia complained on offsides calls that were perhaps questionable but as Coach Karanka said, it wasn't decisive. I remember so many fouls too on Cristiano, some hardly calls, and some hard fouls that didn't even get yellows. But the important thing was Real Madrid won and had a good lead heading to the 2nd leg. There was this news though that Mou and Cristiano had some arguing after the game. Players confirmed it but it said it was non more of an arguing about the game, and each voiced out their opinions. Then news hinted that Cristiano possibly can be bench in the La Liga game.

January 20

La Liga, Matchday - Mestalla, FT 0-5.

(Higuain, Di Maria II, Cristiano Ronaldo II)

To the disappointment of the press (perhaps) Cristiano Ronaldo was not bench by Mou. And when all the players of Real Madrid clicked together, they were just unstoppable. The game saw all the goals scored in the first half, a very clinical attacking Real Madrid at first, then a defensive one come 2nd half. Fourth clean sheet of Iker Casillas and a worst defeat of the Valencia, the game was really a statement from the Whites. We saw a very good form of Ozil, Di Maria, Khedira, then of course, Cristiano Ronaldo. It was amazing. Barcelona eventually lost afterwards and drop 3 points and though the gap was still big at 15, it was still good. 

It's amazing to see them all play well.

January 23

2nd leg Copa del Rey, Mestalla; FT: 1-1

(Costa, Benzema)

A draw was somewhat a very good result, since it means that Real Madrid was the semifinalist for the Copa del Rey. But the game will be remembered more for things that had happened that will affect the Los Blancos for a long time. At the 17th minute, Iker Casillas was accidentally hit by Arbeloa on the hand, and had his thumb broken. He was replaced by Adan afterwards. Then there's Di Maria and Coentrao being sent off as well. Fans including me was just glad there's no more 'casualty'. Left and right, we felt that Cristiano was fouled hard and yet just like old times no calls at all. But Iker's injury was the worst of all. Then another downing news, Marca (Spanish press) said that Iker and Sergio Ramos said to RM's president Florentino that if Mou didn't leave till the end of the season, they will. After the Valencia game, despite being in the semis against Barcelona, people were a bit sad of what was said and what had happened. Then Florentino, despite not usually commenting on news, held a press conference and denied the rumors that went out. He said it was only a way to destabilized the team. Iker and Sergio also sent an official statement that they never provided an ultimatum against their coach and that they only have respect for him. Marca stand firm with their news though although Real Madrid had made a legal actions against them as well.

It was a busy week for Real Madrid, they are all over the news, and their wins against Valencia was suddenly shadowed by all of it. Personally, it might be true that there are tensions among the players and the coach but I think it's just normal, among very competitive individuals who all want to win. I think they're making a big deal out of things because of Mourinho's personality. I certainly hope non of those was true. I hope they'll stay united no matter what. 

Valencia vs Real Madrid 0-5 La Liga

Best Part of Being a Madridista

January 8, 2012

I don't even know where to start. The last time I wrote something about my Real Madrid was in December when we won against Atletico Madrid. Then a lot of things had happened. We saw the team trailing by sixteen points in La Liga table till now, we saw them being drawn against Manchester United in Champions League, we saw them losing the first leg of their Copa Del Rey match against Celta, the benching of Iker Casillas, the red card of Adan, then lastly Cristiano Ronaldo and Jose Mourinho losing in the FIFA Ballon D Or for the World's Best Player and World's Best Coach. As a Madridista, these things that had happened seems to dampened my spirit, it was sad.

To tell the truth, although in La Liga,though it had already been concluded that Real Madrid will not have a chance on the title, I am not worrying that much anymore and I have accepted it. I won't even want to know the reason why, nor blame anyone. It happens. You win sometimes, you lose some times. But I'm glad with the optimism of the players, coaches and everyone from the squad, they will keep on fighting. They will try to win games, right now, that's important.

In Copa del Rey, this Wednesday will be the 2nd leg and of course Real Madrid is expected to win, they're always was. Just like the games in La Liga, this is equally important, so much important that Coach Mou decided to bench Iker the second time in La Liga, he said whoever will play in the game against Real Sociedad will play in the game against Celta. I know Iker is the big thing in Madrid, I just don't understand why people, especially the media can't accept Mou's decision. Mou was correct, Adan was wrongly punished about it. And the fans whistling in Bernabau against Mou and Adan were equally sad. I'm not going to think anymore what will happen next after this. All I know right now is I'll keep on believing in Mou and the rest of the squad.

Then there's the Ballon D Or. Yes, I'm totally hoping that somehow, Cristiano Ronaldo and Mourinho will win it. First because Ronaldo, although came in second in the most goals in calendar year, was very instrumental in claiming a La Liga title, that he had some equally awesome records scoring six times against one of the best team Barcelona, that he had a record of scoring against all La Liga teams he had faced, had somehow helped his Portugal side in Euro semifinals. But no, these other facts don't seem to matter. He came second in the voting. He wasn't the fave to win and somehow he knew it. He can't seem to please everyone. I don't want to go any further to comparing Messi to Ronaldo. I don't want to join your debate, I'm a Real Madrid fan and I'm a Cristiano Ronaldo fan. He had done great things for Real Madrid, and for that he will the best for us. I don't want to know the reason why they can't seem to like the guy, why it seems that some can't appreciate what he's doing, because I know, that somehow, even if people don't tell, even if they don't vote for him as the best, even if they say CR7 is only second to Messi, football won't be the same without Cristiano Ronaldo. Life will does go on. I, will continue to enjoy what he's doing and he will do for Real Madrid and for football. And I'm sure at the back of your mind, you guys will thank him for all of what he's done. 

With World Best Coach, I think I'm the only one to have dreamt that Jose Mourinho will get it. He had finally end Barcelona's reign in Spanish Football, he had set some awesome records too with Real Madrid, and yet, still few had thought he had done better. Against Del Bosque of the Spanish National Team, it was understandable he won't win it. For afterall, Spain is the number one in terms of football, and Vicente had lead them, still I was thinking, Coach Mou might have a chance. Of course, I'm totally wrong. One thing that I realized, Mou and Cristiano were the same, they can't pleased anyone, not with their winning ways, not with the way they play. They've been tag as arrogant, and everything they say, they will add some colors on it, they will never win an award decided by votes by media people or other teams or players. Not against some lovable guys too. But knowing Mou, I doubt he even mind it. That's one good thing about Mou, and perhaps, one of the most hated, his characteristic of having a strong personality. But me, I won't have it any other way.

Somehow, when they lose something, a game or an award, it made me sad, and I'm thinking it was just as hard to be a fan. But, at the same time I realize, this same team is keeping me happy, with their win, with their attitudes, with their skills, their hard work, and probably yes, with their looks too. I'm glad, I'm just glad to be a Madridista. I'm being inspired by them just the same. I'm very fortunate to be a fan of this team.

Side notes:

While I was being a bit low when Cristiano didn't win the award, there's some things along the way that made ne glad. The support of Marcelo, Iker, Sergio and Xabi was one of them, then there's how people interpret Cristiano's reaction, I don't know about them, but I felt he knew what was coming and he had accepted it. There's also the press conference, on how Cristiano down plays his rivalry over Messi, Cristiano seems to be jolly on all the pics and vids. Also when they announce the FIFA XI, CR7 have three kids with him when he got the award, and I like what the kid asked him and what he had answered. Then saw some tweets too regarding Sergio and not bringing Ozil with him, haha too mean. I've also seen the wonderful support of fellow Madridista to Cristiano Ronaldo. It's overwhelming to stand with Ronaldo's side. I hope he knows, he's the best for us.

Real Madrid will always be the best, the players, the coaches, and all Madridista in my heart. I'm glad to be a part of them. Just so glad. 

January 10, 2012 4:30 am Philippine Time

Real Mardrid vs Celta Vigo 4-0 (agg 1-2)

We are on to the quarterfinals of Copa del Rey, and what a way to do it!

Going to this match, media all over were still wondering if Iker will be bench since he technically played the last match against Real Sociedad, but he did start the game. Also, some were wondering how will Cristiano Ronaldo play given that he had just lost the Ballon D Or, but after this game, I think people will believe Ronaldo now, life will go on with him. 

The game was just awesome for Real Madrid, full time scores at 4-0 with Cristiano Ronaldo getting his 18th hat trick for the Whites, and also getting his 174 goals in 172 appearances for them. More than those awesome goals was exemplary display too from everyone, Modric, Varane notably, Sergio (though he got an unfair second yellow and was sent off), Khedira with another goal and non-other than the Saint Iker. During the second half where Celta tried to pressure Real  Madrid, he was there to make some awesome saves. But of course, really this was Cristiano Ronaldo's day. 3 goals, 1 assists. He ran an awesome 75 km/h speed to get his third goal, fouled and tackled many times, and yet, he can't be stop. If you think Cristiano was sad about last few days award, I wonder how he will be if he is happy. No matter, I'm too glad with the game. I really love it. And Coach Mou? He did the right thing. We only have to trust him.

This is just a good indication, that as promised by our players, good things will happen in 2013. I just can't wait for more.

Hala Madrid! Gracias!

Gracias Cristiano Ronaldo! Our World's Best Player!

Madrid Derby and The Rocket

December 2, 2012 5:00 am Philippine Time

Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid, Santiago Bernabeu

Full Time: 2 (15' Cristiano Ronaldo, 66' Ozil) - 0

It was highly anticipated, like El Clasico. They said before Barcelona, it was Atletico Madrid who was Real Madrid's arch rival. While Atletico Madrid was also ahead of Real Madrid currently in the league standing with 8 points before this game, they also need to chalk up wins as much as they can as they were also behind Barcelona with 11 points, more so, they need to bounce back after an upsetting loss to Betis last week, and also after being criticized more by Madridista all over especially with Mourinho. On their game against Alcoyano last time, fans whistled at Mou. Mou had said a lot too and press was just putting more and more stories. Then funny enough, an incident happened that saw Madrid stars Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka, Pepe, Coentrao and Arbeloa left behind by the Real Madrid bus on the night before the game as they met up in Santiago Bernabeu to go to the hotel before the game. Mou decided to leave all of them and the five just catch up on Arbeloa's SUV.

The game though was little like the same all Derby matches, and some more. First, Real Madrid dominates, and Atletico was not themselves. Just like all the Derby matches, Real went on to win this one tallying their wins to 24, 22 in league play. Just like the past two, Cristiano Ronaldo was the main man of it. What a better way to go back in scoring form too, as Ronaldo was 3 games without a goal, he got it off a freekick - the good old "Ronaldo Rocket", which was he last scored against Atletico too. On the 15th minute he had scored the goal and the Atletico Madrid keeper can't do anything to stop it. I love Iker Casillas reaction to it (and according to people he was impressed and said "what a goal, kid" twice). The first half saw some more chances for Real Madrid although the score managed to end at 1-0 at halftime. Second half, Cristiano Ronaldo was still at it. He had a good chance from a Benzema pass but shot just wide, then on the 66th minute, he had managed to pass the ball to Ozil and the German wonderfully curled his body to kick the ball and find the net. It was awesome. More chances came in especially for Ronaldo, one a freekick again that hit the bar, then another one - from a pass of Ozil where he sprinted to an almost 96 meters in just less than 10 seconds - hit the post. Ronaldo was frustrated to see those shots come off but his effort was just so wonderful. In the end, sports headlines all over held Cristiano as the king of the derby.

It's a good day, for us Madridista. We have known that the players are just working hard and not giving up. Despite still trailing by 11 points by Barca, life never ends for Real Madrid in La Liga. I'm happy for this win, I'm happy to see Cristiano back in the score sheet getting his 90 goals in Santiago Bernabeu with 81 appearances, 99th under Mourinho with 86 appearances, and a lot more records to create. Iker once again proved he was the best goal keeper and Real Madrid the best team in defense as they had another clean sheet and against a great team too. And Mourinho had the most wins against Atletico in Spain too.

Thanks Real Madrid for once again making us all happy and proud. Hala Madrid!

Cristiano Ronaldo screams after his goal.

The Ronaldo Rocket

Falcao and Cristiano Ronaldo

Ozil's curl shot

Pointing the Real Madrid Crest

Real Madrid celebration

Iker Casillas

Tough Times for Madridista

Madridista

Real Madrid vs Athletic Bilbao

November 18, 2012 5:00 am Philippine Time

FT: Real Madrid 5-1 Athletic Bilbao

It was one of those rare nights that Real Madrid was showing signs of perfectness, it was one of those rare nights where everyone was playing good, it was one of those rare nights where Real Madrid scored 5 goals and their main scorer Cristiano Ronaldo had not scored at all. The game saw a comeback from Karim Benzema who had suffered an injury and had to be rested for 2 games. His game was close to perfect, he had forced the first goal, scored another from an assist of Callejon, and then provide an assist as well to Ozil. Everyone really played well. Arbeloa had an assist too to Khedira, Ozil to Sergio Ramos, and though Real Madrid had conceded a goal, their defense were not in question that night. The thing too was Cristiano Ronaldo played exceptional despite having a blanc from the scoresheet. He had some good passes, one that led to Benzema to put another superb pass to Ozil, he had made some shots (a lot of on target) and had threaten to put his name on the scoresheet. It must have been sad for him as he didn't add one to his name but just like Arbeloa had said after the game during an interview, Cristiano was happy as the team had won. 

There's still a lot of issues surrounding the Real Madrid dressing room especially Cristiano Ronaldo. Newspapers from Spain like As.com had said that the Portuguese was still unhappy and might really find an exit after the end of the season. They said that Ronaldo was still not feeling supported by the team, and I might have to agree as they had never showed any reaction as well to Ronaldo getting hurt during the Levante game and Albiol actually had showed concern more to Navarro the guy who injured Ronaldo. As a fan of Ronaldo - that's quite upsetting. But I have faith too that despite all of these Cristiano will still do his best for the club.

UCL - Manchester City vs Real Madrid

FT: 1-1

November 22, 2012 3:30 am Philippine Time

Going to the UEFA Champions League game against Man City, I had felt the love that the Man United had to Cristiano. It's going to be the first time Cristiano will be back in the city when he had left Man United back in 2009. And the Man United people are more than excited to see him back. What Gary Neville had written described the real Ronaldo, exceptional, ambitious, one of the best. He had described how he used to not understand him, then how Cristiano had magnificently changed his views over football. It had made me know Cristiano more and I appreciate it. There's another one written this time about what some other Man United players have to say and it clearly showed they had always appreciated Cristiano no matter what.

Game time, Man City fans of course had booed Ronaldo to the best of their ability. But Cristiano was awesome, he had made some distinctive moves that left Man City defenders dancing. As Rooney had tweeted during the game, Cristiano was killing people here. The game did not see him finding the back of the net though. He had made some good passes and Khedira was the recipient but was only able to shot wide on two chances. Cristiano was able to send one over at Hart too but was cleared by another Man City defender. Benzema scored the lone goal and Man City was awarded a penalty which is questionable and had even sent Real Madrid to just 10 players after Arbeloa was sent out. I felt that the referee was a bit unfair to Cristiano too as he was pushed a lot of times and nothing was called. Iker was the usual as he had provided Madrid some awesome saves along the way. The game did ended in a draw but it means Man City will be out of UCL as Borussia Dortmund beats Ajax in the other game. The draw was enough for Real Madrid to be qualified ending second. Mourinho doesn't mind that at all.

La Liga Betis vs Real Madrid

FT: 1-0

November 25, 2012 5:00 am Philippine Time

This was shockingly upsetting. Real Madrid need not to lose games if they want to keep up with Barcelona in the standings but this had happened. Just like everyone else, had noticed that Real Madrid played the first part of the game well enough, Cristiano had created a chance again passing it to Khedira but again it was wide. Then came the Betis goal. After that, the game was completely changed. Some shots are tentative, possessions were lost. Kaka was substitute in place of Ozil during the half and he really had a great chance to equalize but the Betis keeper was just as good beating his long shot. Callejon was put in so as Modric and there's some more good chances like Cristiano's free kick which again was saved by the Betis keeper, and some more. Overall, despite the chances, it was an upsetting play by the Whites. Benzema had a goal ruled offside where he was clearly not, then during the endgame, they were also denied of a penalty out of the handball in the area by Betis. Everything did fall out for Madrid. At the end of the weekend, Barcelona was ahead 11 points and Atletico Madrid ahead of 9 points.

During the press conference given by Mou, he had pointed out some things why they had lost. He had blamed himself, the game of the players, the schedules, the referee. He really had a point. Personally, no matter what, I support Mou. I trust him. I know he knows the best. He had already proven that. Regardless of the result of the game, I appreciate the players positivity. Arbeloa, Casillas, Alonso among others when asked that all that matters now are the next few games. And they were right. As much as it's upsetting, I know there's going to be something good after this. Everyone will learn, I'm certain of it.

It's a sad fact that Ronaldo had only scored once this month. But I know he'll be back. I hope he will, he's badly needed now.

If in case news about some problems inside the Madrid locker room was true, I can only hope it will be fixed soon. More than winning, what I want for them was to be happy and together.

Real Madrid vs Alcoyano

FT 3-0

November 28, 2012 4:30 am Philippine Time

So technically, was not able to see this game. From what I've learned, Cristiano was among the people on the bench but was still rested, Kaka was not included at all, then the goals came in late after Benzema and Di Maria got subbed in. Goals are from Di Maria and a brace for Callejon. They had dominated the match most of the time and it's just enough to seal the spot on top 16. What I have heard too was Mou was whistled by Real Madrid fans at Santiago Bernabeu. That's tough. As what they've been telling, Madridista are demanding. Iker Casillas share an interview after the match and he had reminded the fans to remember what Mou had done for them, Alonso and Arbeloa shares the same as they hailed Mourinho as the best that could have coached Real Madrid. As much as the situation in games are really different now, I think this is the time where Real Madrid needs us most.

In more recent news, FIFA had released the top three contenders for Ballon D'Or. It's Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and Andres Iniesta, the same three that was candidate for the UEFA Best Player. Just like the same, opinions rise as who will be the next one hailed, will Messi gets his world record fourth, will Cristiano gets his second, or will Iniesta surprised everyone again. First, I'm sad that Iker Casillas had not made it. A lot had said he deserves nomination, he's instrumental to numerous championships of Spain last year and to recent La Liga success of Real Madrid, but goalkeepers are underrated. Had been reading Falcao deserve a spot too, and I agree that his one of the best, but those three there? I don't think anyone should question it. There's so many of them whose great, but the three really was exceptional for their teams. Cristiano Ronaldo had said the nomination was overwhelming for him. I'm glad his happy. No question asked, he deserve to be named the best. As much as Messi was exceptional with his 50 goals in La Liga and 83 as for the whole 2012 year, it's Cristiano who had a silverware under his belt and a major one which is La Liga, had helped Portugal to reach Euro 2012 semis and had his own records set too, among was scoring againt all the La Liga teams he had faced, and scoring 6 consecutive in El Clasico. Real Madrid had an amazing record in La Liga last year. Coach Jose Mourinho was among the candidates for the best coach and he deserves it too. It's good that players who voted had named Ronaldo and Mourinho, it's a fact that the two had done great and it's good that they were recognized. Not unlike in La Liga itself when despite the records this two had set, they were denied of the awards they deserve. I felt it's mostly envy. If there's something that Ronaldo and Mou had in common, it's either they were being love much or hate much.

No matter what though I love those too and I love Real Madrid. Tough times for us but I'm keeping the faith. Win or lose. Hala Madrid!