madristar

Ancelotti: Gattuso is a good man Carlo Ancelotti has defended Gennaro Gattuso following the AC Milan midfielder's headbutt on Tottenham coach Joe Jordan. Gattuso faces disciplinary action from UEFA, which could result in a lengthy ban, for his altercation with Jordan at the end of Milan's 1-0 Champions League defeat to Spurs on Tuesday night. Ancelotti, who managed Gattuso for eight years at the San Siro during which time the club won two European Cups, acknowledged his fellow Italian had made a mistake. But the Chelsea manager also insisted the attack on Jordan was completely out of character. "I was obviously not happy because Gattuso is a very generous player, is a very good man," Ancelotti said. "He made a mistake. I'm very disappointed with this. "Also, he was very disappointed after the game. He said sorry and full stop. "He's played 100 games in the Champions League and he never had problems. "I have seen him always correct. "He made a mistake, he said sorry and now UEFA obviously will take a decision. "To judge Gattuso as a man because he made a mistake is not good. "I can say it because I know him very well." UEFA's control and disciplinary body will discuss the case against 33-year-old Gattuso on Monday.

Ancelotti denies any Chelsea pressure Carlo Ancelotti insists Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur's UEFA Champions League wins have not put any pressure on Chelsea. The Blues travel to Denmark having been handed arguably the easiest possible draw for the knockout stage, with their opponents rookies at this stage of the competition. That was in stark contrast to Arsenal and Spurs, who were dealt the toughest of fixtures in Barcelona and AC Milan, respectively. However, the north London rivals both produced stunning victories to give them real hope of progressing to the quarter-finals. Tuesday night sees the spotlight fall on Chelsea, who began another season as one of the favourites for the Champions League and will be fully expected to reach the last eight. Asked if there was extra pressure on his side in the wake of Tottenham and Arsenal's exploits, Blues boss Ancelotti said: "Not extra pressure but we know Copenhagen very well. "They are a good team, with fantastic organisation, a dynamic team, they use a lot of speed. "It's important to know this to prepare well for the game, and to have courage to play." He added: "Tottenham and Arsenal played a fantastic game. "They reached a fantastic result against Barcelona, against Milan. "The Champions League is difficult to play and every team has an opportunity to win and to do the best." The biggest pressure on Ancelotti and his players will arguably come from billionaire owner Roman Abramovich, who has targeted the Champions League ever since taking over the club. No team has repeatedly gone closer to doing so than Chelsea in the past seven seasons without actually lifting the European Cup, with the Blues having reached five semi-finals and one final. Abramovich was thought to have been furious when they crashed out to eventual winners Inter Milan in the last 16 a year ago, so it remains to be seen how the Russian would react to another early exit at the hands of the competition's minnows. The Champions League has also taken on extra significance for Chelsea as a result of their faltering Barclays Premier League title defence, which is widely considered to be over. They are now in a race to claim a top-four spot, something unprecedented during the Abramovich era. Finishing fifth will not be a problem if Chelsea finally end their Champions League hoodoo, but they will have to play a lot better than in recent months to pull off that feat. Even getting past Copenhagen could prove far more difficult than many fans envisage. The Danish champions are unbeaten at home in the Champions League, including in games against Manchester United and - this season - Barcelona. They also have a little inside knowledge of Chelsea, with former Stamford Bridge winger Jesper Gronkjaer in their ranks. With David Luiz cup-tied, Ancelotti must decide whether to field Paulo Ferreira, Jose Bosingwa or Branislav Ivanovic at right-back up against Gronkjaer. The dilemma over whether to play Fernando Torres, Didier Drogba or both also returns, with the former back in the squad after being cup-tied for this afternoon's FA Cup fourth-round replay against Everton. Torres has flopped in two games since his £50million move from Liverpool, failing to find the net once. But Ancelotti was relaxed about his misfiring record signing. "I've never asked my strikers to score," the Italian said. "I didn't ask last year Didier to score goals. "If I said to him last year to score, maybe he could score 80 goals, not 40!"

Ancelotti in Chelsea quit threat Carlo Ancelotti has dropped a bombshell on his future at Chelsea by claiming he will not coach a team that is not in the Champions League. As the current standings go, the Blues will not qualify for next season's Champions League as they are fifth in the Barclays Premier League. And if that is the case come the end of the season, Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, who is known for his ruthlessness in the sacking of managers, will almost certainly make Ancelotti his fifth managerial victim in his seven-year reign at Stamford Bridge. But the Italian, who joined Chelsea from Milan in June 2009 and went on to win the league and FA Cup double in his first season, appeared to have planned his move ahead of the Russian billionaire. "We know the Premier League is now very tough for us but we want to play in the Champions League next year, it is the most important thing for everyone," Ancelotti was quoted as saying in the Daily Mirror. "I don't want to train a team that is not in the Champions League as for me it is the best competition in the world. But I am an optimist and I believe my team has the quality [to finish in the top four]." Asked if he truly cannot stand the thought of managing Chelsea in the Europa League next season, Ancelotti added: "This is why it is important we arrive [in the top four] of the Premier League. "It will be a fight, there are five teams, maybe six teams with Liverpool, who want this." Meanwhile, the 51-year-old will be banking his hopes of a top-four finish on £50million signing Fernando Torres, who has so far looked an utter waste of money for the Blues - firing blanks in his first two starts. But Ancelotti, who dropped Didier Drogba in favour of the Spaniard during their latest goalless draw at Fulham, has hinted on playing both of them up front in the near future. "He [Torres] is a striker like Didier but it is not right to say they are in competition, they are in collaboration," said Ancelotti. "They have to work together to help bring the team in the best position." Torres however, is cup-tied for Chelsea's FA Cup fourth-round tie with Everton at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, having played for Liverpool in the third-round.

Roma targetting Carlo Ancelotti Serie A giants Roma are planning to bring Chelsea coach Carlo Ancelotti to the Stadio Olimpico in the summer. Il Corriere dello Sport reports that the Giallorossi are looking to replace incumbent Claudio Ranieri as they seek to once again stamp their authority on Italian football. Ranieri finds himself under immense pressure following a poor run in the domestic competition where his side have slumped to three consecutive defeats. They are currently a lowly eight in the standings - 13 points behind leaders AC Milan. Wednesday's home Champions League defeat to Shakhtar Donetsk will not have done anything to ease the pressure and Ranieri has been forced to make statements almost every day that he is not resigning from his post. Things are not looking too good for his Italian compatriot at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea lost in the Carling Cup and went out on penalties to Everton on Saturday in the FA Cup. The much coveted Champions League remains their only realistic chance of a trophy - and so dire is their situation in the Premier League that they might not even qualify for the tournament next season. Ancelotti has himself said he would not want to coach a team not playing in Europe and owner Roman Abramovich has been known to be ruthless with managers in the past - firing Jose Mourinho, Luis Felipe Scolari and Avram Grant after they failed to deliver in the Champions League. Anything less than victory in club football's premier competition could well see him getting rid of Ancelotti too - thus paving the way for Roma to appoint the Italian.

Real Madrid's Cristiano Ronaldo Switches Focus To Lyon After Levante Win Cristiano Ronaldo looks to Lyon after Real Madrid's 2-0 win over Levante. By Paul Macdonald Real Madrid attacker Cristiano Ronaldo has shifted his focus to Champions League opponents Lyon after the comfortable defeat of Levante on Saturday evening. Strikes from Karim Benzema and Ricardo Carvalho proved enough to hand Los Blancos a straight-forward win and closed the gap on leaders Barcelona. The Portuguese has switched his attention to the midweek trip to the Ligue 1 side, and speaking to the media afterwards, he said: “We could not score more goals because Levante parked the bus. “It was a tough match in the end but everything went well. We had chances, and now we think about Tuesday, which is a big game. We know it will be difficult. But I think that it will be fine. Lyon are a complicated team, they are not doing well in the league but are always there in the quarter-finals of the Champions League. “I am convinced that we are going to play well, and win.” Lyon knocked the Spanish giants out of the competition at the same stage last season, securing a 1-1 draw at the Santiago Bernabeu after winning 1-0 in France.

Milan To Use Alexandre Pato To Lure Real Madrid's Sergio Ramos To San Siro - Report Milan will use Pato as part of a swap deal in the summer to bring Sergio Ramos to San Siro in the summer. By Andrew McLean Feb 18, 2011 9:30:00 AM Rumours of unrest between Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho and defender Sergio Ramos continue to fuel speculation that the Spanish international could be on his way to Milan, with striker Alexandre Pato going the other way. In recent times the compatibility of the 21-year-old Brazilian and Zlatan Ibrahimovic operating in the same front three alongside Robinho or Antonio Cassano has come into question, with many believing their similar styles leave the Rossoneri with a lack of creativity. Corriere dello Sport have today reported that under-fire los Blancos striker Karim Benzema will be out of the Santiago Bernabeu door come the summer, meaning Pato's diminished status at Milan could pave the way for a swap deal with the 24-year-old versatile Spaniard to satisfy both clubs' needs.

Real Madrid eye Sissoko swoop Real Madrid could launch a surprise bid for Juventus midfielder Mohamed Sissoko during the summer transfer window. The former Liverpool player has struggled to secure a place in the starting line-up at Turin and looks to be on his way out of the club. Now according to Tuttosport, Madrid coach Jose Mourinho wants to add some steel to his midfield and at the same time provide extra defensive cover for Xabi Alonso. The Portuguese sees the 26-year-old as the ideal man for his plans at the Santiago Bernabeu. Besides Sissoko, Mourinho is also keeping tabs on Getafe star Dani Parejo. Meanwhile, Madrid are set to face competition for Sissoko's signature in the form of Wolfsburg and Schalke, who are both keen on the Frenchman.

Mourinho: Next year will be Real good Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has high hopes for his side next season, despite his earlier spat with Jorge Valdano. Mourinho and club legend Valdano fell out early this season and reportedly had disagreements over various issues but tension has eased in recent weeks. The team, meanwhile, managed to cut Barcelona's lead at the top of La Liga to five points last weekend and while the Portuguese coach is still aiming for success on three fronts this season, he believes next year will be even better. "The natural tendency is for us to win something and initiate a cycle that we hope will produce more victories," he told Cadena Cope. "But my hopes are a lot more for my team next year than this season." As for boardroom relations, Mourinho said: "Today I see the club in the same direction as me. "We have the same thought, the same philosophy, there is much more empathy, because the personal empathy has always been very good with the president (Florentino Perez) and Jose Angel (Sanchez, director general)."

Cristiano Ronaldo Congrats to Mourinho for reaching an incredible record of 9 years undefeated at home. We celebrated that with a good win!

Capello gives his La Liga verdict Former Real Madrid coach Fabio Capello believes this season's La Liga title race will go right down to the wire. Barcelona are currently five points clear of second-placed Madrid at the top of the standings with 15 games to go and, with third-placed Valencia 10 points further adrift, it looks certain the championship will again end up at either the Nou Camp or the Bernabeu. Two-time reigning champions Barca, who had set a Primera Division record with 16 successive league wins prior to last weekend`s 1-1 draw at Sporting Gijon, are favourites to come out on top, but Capello believes the battle will go down to the final week. Asked if he thinks Madrid can win the league this season, Capello told Marca: "I think they will fight until the last game. Barca have a lot of quality in their play, but Real Madrid`s squad is very strong and the two teams are going to arrive in the final straight of the season very even." The England manager, who led Madrid to title wins in both of his two seasons in charge of the Spanish giants, back in 1997 and then again in 2007, was also full of praise for Mourinho. The Portuguese moved to Spain last summer after leading Inter Milan to an unprecedented treble and, heading into the last three months of the season, he has put the Spanish giants into contention for the league, Champions League and Copa del Rey. In the Copa Madrid will face Barca in the final, while Lyon are the opposition when they return to European action this week in the last 16 of the Champions League - a stage Madrid have fallen at in each of the last six seasons. "He (Mourinho) is doing a very good job," said Capello. "He is a winning coach, with a lot of experience and I like him a lot. The most important thing in football are the victories. The titles. And in this aspect Mourinho is a champion, which he`s shown on many occasions. I`m tired of those that say: `We played very well, we had a lot of fun, but we finished second`. The important thing is to win. "I think Mou`s team are going to be competitive in the three competitions they are challenging for: Copa del Rey, Champions League and, of course, the league." Capello also thinks there is still more to come from the big-spending Spaniards as well, saying: "I have the feeling that they are still a group under construction. You notice the work of Mourinho day by day. From what I`ve seen up until now, the Whites are improving game after game." Arsenal's Spain midfielder Cesc Fabregas has been linked to both former club Barca and their rivals Madrid recently but Capello expects the Gunners captain to bide his time before making a move to La Liga. "I see him living in London, at least a season more," said the Italian. "Although these things are very difficult to predict." Regarding his current job, Capello also described himself as "very happy" with England`s situation as they look to reach the Euro 2012 finals. After three games in Group G, England are second in the table with seven points, three behind leaders Montenegro who have played a match more. Asked how things were going with England, Capello said: "Very well, I`m very happy. We`re doing a good job, the objective is to qualify for the European Championships and now we have a key game against Wales in March."

Real Madrid 2-0 Levante Real Madrid provisionally cut Barcelona's lead to two points after seeing off Levante at a rain-drenched Bernabeu. First-half goals from Karim Benzema and Ricardo Carvalho decided the game as Jose Mourinho's men kept the pressure up on pacesetters Barca, who host Athletic Bilbao tomorrow. The victory was Madrid's 22nd successive home win in all competitions and marked nine years since Mourinho last suffered a home defeat in the league, which came on February 23, 2002, when his Porto team lost to Beira Mar. Levante came into the match as the most in-form team in the division with three successive victories behind them, but having been thumped 8-0 on their last visit to the Bernabeu in the Copa del Rey just before Christmas. And the Valencia-based side must have feared a repeat of that mauling as they found themselves behind with just six minutes on the clock tonight. Angel Di Maria was the architect of the goal with a brilliant run that saw him beat three players on the edge of the box before sliding a low cross in for Benzema to slot into the gaping net. That was Benzema's third league goal of the season and justified Mourinho's decision to start with the Frenchman ahead of the European trip to his former club Lyon. Benzema, who scored a hat-trick in that 8-0 win, was selected up front ahead of Emmanuel Adebayor, who had started the last two matches and also scored on his previous two appearances at the Bernabeu following his loan move from Manchester City. Benzema's strike looked set to open the floodgates as Madrid set up camp in the Levante half, but chances came and went with Sergio Ramos and Cristiano Ronaldo firing wide and Levante goalkeeper Gustavo Munua doing superbly to deny Di Maria and Benzema. It was beginning to look as though Madrid would have to settle for just their one-goal advantage at the break, but Carvalho popped up in the 42nd minute to double their lead. Ronaldo drilled in a free-kick from near the goalline and the unmarked Carvalho turned the ball in from just a yard out, a strike that saw the centre-back join Benzema on three league goals for the season. The second half saw Madrid push for further goals, but Munua managed to ensure the home side did not record a similar scoreline to that cup encounter. He denied Sami Khedira before producing excellent saves in quick succession to tip over efforts from Ronaldo and Benzema. Ronaldo, looking to add to his 24 league goals this season, then brought two more good stops out of Munua as Madrid continued to create openings. Madrid substitute Mesut Ozil then almost scored a wonder goal in injury-time following a mazy dribble, but Munua saved that as well as the home side had to settle for just the two first-half goals.

Mourinho has Lyon in his crosshairs Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has turned his attention to the Champions League after beating Levante in La Liga. Real were comfortable 2-0 winners on a rainy night in Madrid, with Karim Benzema and Ricardo Carvalho on the scoresheet for los Blancos. With this win, Madrid have cut down Barcelona's lead at the top to two points and the Catalans have their work cut out as they prepare to meet Athletic Bilbao on Sunday. While Pep Guardiola's men are recovering after their 2-1 Champions League defeat to Arsenal on Wednesday, Mourinho is preparing for his European battle. In comments reported on Real's official website, he said: "I liked that my team played a serious match. These games ahead of Champions League matches can be complicated because players may focus more on the European competition. The team played well and was very focused. "We knew Levante would make it tough. They were organised in defence, but we scored early and had things under control. Winning and resting players is what mattered." Looking ahead to the midweek clash, Mourinho revealed: "Ever since we drew Lyon, we have been studying and learning about them. Real Madrid have two barriers to break down against Lyon. "It's been years since Madrid made it through to the last quarter-finals and it's because they have never beaten Lyon. I would like to know if Lisandro, Jimmy Briand or Cesar Delgado will be playing. We have to study all the possibilities and be prepared for anything and everything." The Portuguese should have some fresh legs against the French side, having rested Xabi Alonso and Mesut Ozil against Levante. "I started a team that I thought would be enough to win and we respected the opponent because we knew they had a solid defence," explained Mourinho. "We had to be creative and dynamic, which is why I used four players in attack. I think it's only normal that I rest Xabi Alonso and Mesut Ozil, who will play the next match, when I still have other alternatives." Real play Lyon at the Stade Gerland on Tuesday before resuming La Liga assignments against Deportivo on Saturday.

Mourinho: Real pressure on Madrid Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho believes the pressure is on his side and not leaders Barcelona in the La Liga title race. Mourinho's comments came despite seeing his side provisionally cut the gap between the pair down to two points. Madrid had trailed Barca by seven points earlier this month but have now trimmed that difference by five points after beating Levante 2-0 at the Bernabeu. Barca, having been held at Sporting Gijon last weekend and then losing 2-1 at Arsenal in the Champions League in midweek, could be feeling the heat ahead of Sunday's visit of Athletic Bilbao, although Mourinho believes it is still his side that is under pressure. He said: "We have to win and keep winning. For many seasons I've been in front and everybody was asking me if I was feeling the pressure, and I said no, I wasn't feeling the pressure. The pressure is for the second-placed team, not for the first. "The second place team needs to win every match, so the pressure is on us. But we've won two important matches the last two (Espanyol and Levante), the next one is important too, so you have to keep going and believe, and wait and see." He added about the Levante win, which saw the Portuguese make a number of changes ahead of their Champions League trip to Lyon: "I liked that my team played a serious match. These games ahead of Champions League matches can be complicated because players may focus more on the European competition. The team played well and was very focused." Madrid beat Levante 8-0 in their previous meeting at the Bernabeu in the Copa del Rey before Christmas and looked set for another big scoreline when Karim Benzema put them ahead after just six minutes. However, despite spending almost the entire match camped in Levante's half, Madrid could only net one more goal, with Ricardo Carvalho slotting in just before the interval. The victory was Madrid's 22nd successive home win in all competitions and marked nine years since Mourinho last suffered a home defeat in the league, which came on February 23, 2002, when his Porto team lost to Beira Mar. It also gave them a morale boost ahead of Tuesday's Champions League last-16 first leg clash with Lyon in France. Madrid have been knocked out at this stage in each of the last six seasons - including at the hands of Lyon last season. Looking ahead to that clash, Cristiano Ronaldo said on his club's website: "The Lyon match is very important and it will be difficult, but we are motivated. Lyon are a team that is always in the last 16. We are going there to play well and win."

Real too young for its own good" Iker Casillas admits it will be difficult for a team as young as Real Madrid to challenge on all fronts this season. The Spaniard is in fact the second youngest player at the Santiago Bernabeu, with fellow goalkeeper Jerzy Dudek the only player older than him at 37. Speaking in an interview with Real Madrid TV, the Madrid captain gave his views on the current squad, which he believes will stand the club in good stead. He remarked: "It is not easy to have a workforce as young as this. We are very young, in fact I am the second oldest, at 29. "But we are here, alive in three competitions and have a very strong group, which shows that there is a team that can be here for many years." The World Cup winner also hit out at speculation claiming disunity among the Madrid squad. "I think people see that there are good vibes and a great atmosphere, and what is being said is only to destabilise us." Meanwhile, Casillas will be suspended for the club's next league match against Levante after picking up a red card during Sunday's 1-0 win over Espanyol.

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Q: You’ve said that you only fear God. Have you ever thought of what He thinks of you? A: He has to think that I’m an amazing guy, because otherwise he wouldn’t give me so much. I have an incredible family, my work is what I always dreamed of doing. He’s helped me achieve so many things that He has to think highly of me [José Mourinho, in his purest state!!]. Q: And you can’t ask God for Messi to go hide in a convent or Xavi Hernández to become an astronaut? A: I like football too much to wish something like that on the great players. Leave them be. Q: You’re the ninth most influential person in the world, and you’re even ahead of Obama. Are we crazy? A: What position is my wife in? Eighth, at least. We are crazy. If I’m not even in charge in my own home… [LOVE THIS!!!] Q: Do you like the refrain of the song “Pa-pa-ramericano?” A: The players and Óscar Ribot have it on every day in the locker room, so that I can’t stand to hear it now. Then I get home and my son is there with the “pa-paramericano…” Q: It’s true. You have little control. A: Very little. They end with a personal test, as they always do. Personal test A city to live in: London. A place to get away from it all? My home. I try to find places where no one can find me, but it’s impossible. Favorite movie: Yesterday I spent three or four hours watching CSI: Las Vegas on DVD. Favorite actress: No… I believe men are better actors than women [seriously???]. For me, the number one is Anthony Hopkins. Is Florentino Pérez a “ser superior?” [a superior being, as Butragueño called him]: He’s my president. His words are orders. Favorite musical group? Bryan Adams [seriously???]. Favorite song? “It’s time.” Favorite food? I like foie gras, I like expensive paté. Who do you admire, outside of sports? Many people. I have to choose one? Mandela. It’s the story of an incredible life for a cause that appeared to be impossible. A dream. La Décima? For me, it would be “La Tercera.” But to start, I want to beat Levante. Then we can talk about other things.

Q: What is the role of the coach then? Is the role of Mourinho to help them become better? A: I’m a coach, I’m not their father or their agent. I’m with the players two or three hours a day, and there are 21 more. I try. For example, with Canales, he asked me this year if he should leave in December and I told him no, that he has the quality to stay in Madrid and play 10 years here. Q: But Canales was in your plans, because at the beginning of the season he started against Mallorca? A: Yes, he started. And Özil was on the bench. If we had beaten Mallorca 3-0 and he was the man of the match, he would have continued as a starter with Özil on the bench. But it didn’t turn out that way. Q: Then do you expect more of Canales? It’s like when you expected less of Marcelo and he surprised you. A: You never know how things are going to turn out. Özil’s adaptation was faster than we all expected. Canales also started the season strongly because he came from playing in the European championship. Q: How should we interpret seeing Sergio Ramos on the bench the other day keeping in mind that the Champions League is coming up? A: I like to see the positive aspects of everything. And for me that would be talking about the performance of Arbeloa, since the coach will never receive a negative surprise when Arbeloa is on the field. He won’t score a goal like Marcelo did, we can’t expect him to have a spectacular game on the wing, but normally his direct rival doesn’t touch the ball, or not very much, since he dominates, he controls and he gives his team security. He’s a player that I like a lot. And I believe that with a team like Real, which has a very important offensive dynamic, there should be security in the back. Sergio is a player that I like, he’s a player that I can say will play against Levante. There are no problems with him. In the game against Espanyol, I knew that Callejón was a very rapid, aggressive kid who’s difficult to stop, and Arbeloa gave me security. Marcelo was on the other wing attacking more and he hadn’t played with Brazil. Arbeloa had played 15 minutes with Spain, while Sergio had played 90 minutes. Q: Will Ramos also start against Lyon? A: He’ll have to play very well against Levante if he wants to play against Lyon. But if anyone thinks that they’re going to rest on the field against Levante to be 100 percent for Lyon… there is resting at home and resting on the field. Q: Who will play in Lyon: Adebayor or Benzema? A: Maybe both. Or neither of the two. Q: Will I see Madrid beat Barcelona before I die? A: I’m sure. I have a four-year contract with Madrid and I’m sure it will happen. Q: Do you want Adebayor to stay? A: He’s a player that I like. You can’t compare him with Benzema or with Higuaín. They have different characteristics and I’ve always liked having forwards with different characteristics. Q: What did you think of Raúl’s performance against Valencia? A: I didn’t see it, I was in London. But it didn’t surprise me and I’m happy for him. Q: Would Raúl have played a lot this year with Madrid? A: Without a doubt. Q: Did you try to convince him to stay? A: No, I just gave him my opinion. And my opinion is that a player with his prestige and age had to take advantage of the last years of his career in order to be happy. Q: Is it fundamental for you that Pepe’s contract is extended? A: Yes. Q: Why do you sometimes try to be controversial in the press conferences? A: I don’t think I’m polemic. I didn’t start the 13 refereeing mistakes thing, it was the referee that started it. Against Almería, it was Pérez Lasa who make a mistake. Against Osasuna, we lost and I spoke well of the referee. Perhaps I’m aggressive in the way I speak. Q: How are you at home? What is a free day for you like? A: The last few, I went to London. On a normal airplane, not private, to visit friends, see Chelsea, spend time with the family. People there respect you and leave you alone. Q: Can you go out to take a walk in Madrid? A: It’s a bit more difficult. I have very little spare time, my children are in school and my wife also likes privacy. Q: Have you had time to take a walk in the Retiro or in the mountains? A: No. Q: Would you like to? A: I would like to do many things, but it’s not easy. Q: Would you like your son to be a footballer? A: I would like him to enjoy his life like I do and to have the same personal satisfaction to feel important in the world where he works. Right now, he’s crazy for football, but I want him to be happy. Studying is the most important thing for him. Q: Is he a good goalkeeper? A: That’s not the most important thing. For me the most important thing is the group, with the kids and the fantastic fathers. I get along very well with them. I like the idea that all children should play. Each goalkeeper plays one half. I like the culture of Canillas a lot. Q: Are you on twitter? A: No. And not Facebook either. Madrid is working on this. There are a few fake ones and one has millions of followers. Q: Why is it that, Cristiano aside, Portuguese men don’t like to shave? Doesn’t having a beard itch? [i love the way this question was phrased!!!] A: I never thought of this. If I shave for two consecutive days, my skin has problems. But right now I have an endorsement contract with Brown to shave every day.

José Mourinho at “El Partido de las 12″ The last two Real Madrid players who spoke with COPE’s “El Partido de las 12″ program had to go to the radio program’s studio, but when you’re José Mourinho, the studio comes to you (he’s TSO for a reason, no?). So, the program presenters traveled to Valdebebas yesterday to interview Mou right after the training session, since you can see he’s still in his training outfit. As always, the interview only got really interesting when it got personal. It also looks like Mou got a haircut (in London, I’m betting) and I like the stubble! Have a listen here, or keep reading for my highlights. The highlight of highlights is Mou’s answer to the question of how he feels knowing that he’s the ninth most influential person in the world. Q: I don’t know if you like giving in-depth, personal interviews? A: I don’t like them a lot because I often believe that my words are misinterpreted, so the less I speak, the better for me. But this is Real Madrid, which has this social dimension, and as the coach of Real Madrid, I can’t hide. Q: Are you going to continue as coach next year? A: If I’m not kicked out… when I signed for four years, I had the intention of staying all four years. When you leave a champion team like Inter for Real Madrid, it’s not for one year and then goodbye. I want to be here, I want to continue. I feel that the right conditions are in place. I feel that the fans, the players and the directors are with me. If we all unite and believe in this project, well then obviously I’m going to continue. Q: This is the first time that you’ve stated directly that you want to continue. You were a bit more ambiguous one month ago. A: I haven’t changed in this. A while back, I said that if we’re all content (directors, players and fans) there’s no reason why I wouldn’t continue. But the truth is that I’m more content now than I was a month ago. Right now, I see the club going in the same direction as me. We have the same thoughts, the same work philosophy, there’s much more empathy in terms of work, because personal empathy has always been very good with the president and with José Ángel Sánchez. I’ve always felt good, but now I feel good on a personal level and on a professional level. Q: What changed in the last month? A: The communication is very good, the work that we’re doing as well and we are already looking ahead to the next season, to the future. The club understands me better now. I always say that working with me is easy because I’m an organized, methodical person that doesn’t leave room for doubts. But I also get the feeling that working with me is not easy for my character. And now we all know each other better. The directors know perfectly well how I like to work. With the players, I obviously identify more with them because we work every day together. My relationship with the “presi” is very good, along the lines of my philosophy: if they pay me, it’s me that has to work. It’s not the president that has to worry about day-to-day things. I’m the one that has to take care of those and make life easier for the president. That’s my mission in the club. And with José Ángel, I have a very good work relation, we share a lot of ideas and I’m good. Q: You’ve talked twice about FP and José Ángel Sánchez, but you haven’t said anything about Jorge Valdano. A: No, it’s not on purpose. Jorge Valdano has his role in the club. If he has one, it’s because the club is happy with his work. It’s not a problem for me to be in the same club as Jorge Valdano, he’s always been respectful with me and I have no personal issues with him. But my day-to-day work is in Valdebebas, my space, while the “top” of the club is at Concha Espina. I’m very happy with this situation. Q: Finish this sentence: “My relationship with Jorge Valdano is…” A: Normal [love it!]. Q: What is the priority for next season, a midfielder or a forward? A: For me, the most important thing with regards to next season is to win something this season. We have three forwards that are very good: Higuaín, who is ours, Benzema, who is ours, and Adebayor, who can be ours for a certain amount that has already been agreed upon. And we also have Morata, who will one day be the forward of Real Madrid, and who will be a first team player next season. I believe Morata can even play in the position of Cristiano Ronaldo. In the center of the field, we have a number of important players; we have a fairly balanced squad. But it’s normal that Madrid signs a couple of players each summer. Q: Why have Canales and Pedro León been discounted? A: We have a squad made up of 24 players and in this moment we have one injured player in Higuaín. The base of the starting team is known. After that, I have to create a bench that is as balanced as possible. I always have a central defender (Albiol or Garay), a fullback (between Arbeloa, Ramos and Marcelo), two midfielders (Lass, if he’s not on the bench he’s starting), a forward (Benzema or Adebayor) and Kaká, who if he’s not starting, has to be on the bench for his quality and what he can bring to the team. And then I have one space left, which is for Granero, Gago, Pedro León or Canales. I try to motivate my players, to call them up alternatively, to try to dole out the minutes, but it’s not an easy situation. Some work harder than others, some are more psychologically resistant to pressure. The life of a Real Madrid player is not easy. You have to know how to suffer, to grow despite difficulties. Some parents or agents prefer to turn their backs to the difficulties and leave to be kings in kingdoms with less pressure. I believe a young player should not turn his back and he should fight to the limit to be king of a kingdom like Real Madrid. Q: What don’t you like about them, what’s the problem? A: The problem is having the mental strength to fight against obstacles. Having Özil or Kaká ahead of you is not easy. If you’re a winger and you have Di María and Cristiano ahead of you, it’s not easy to send Cristiano and Di María to the bench, it’s not easy to be behind these players. Adán can continue fighting to be the substitute of Casillas, the best goalkeeper in the world, or he can go to a club where he plays every Sunday and perhaps won’t even need to work. It depends on each one. And people have to adapt to the situation. Adán played the way he played against Espanyol because during seven months he worked as if he were going to start the next game, and he knew perfectly well that was not the case. It’s a question of mentality and education. And we’re here to educate the young players. It’s the same with Morata: Morata won’t start on Madrid because the press asks for it, he will have to earn his starting position as a consequence of his work: scoring goals with Castilla, helping Castilla ascend. And next season, he’ll have to work each day with the first team, learn and wait for his opportunity. And that’s part of the growth process of players.

Corinthians attempted audacious Kaka bid Brazilian side Corinthians have made an audacious attempt to loan playmaker Kaka from Real Madrid. In the wake of the departure of two Brazilian footballing icons in Ronaldo and Roberto Carlos, reports in Brazil claim that Corinthians are looking for a high profile replacement, and have considered the 28-year-old as a possible solution, albeit on a temporary basis. Kaka has had an injury-plagued second season at the Santiago Bernabeu but, despite recently making a successful return to the first team, is finding it extremely competitive to slot back into the starting lineup due to the summer arrivals and emergence of fellow playmakers Mesut Ozil and Angel Di Maria. With the football season reaching its climax, Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho is unlikely to start Kaka if he is not fully match fit, a situation which Corinthians is ready to pounce on. According to newspaper Folha de Sao Paulo, Corinthians are prepared to make a loan bid for the ex-AC Milan player and offer him regular first team football, in order to help him regain his pre-injury levels of match fitness and sharpness. The publication further added that Kaka was open to the move, but felt it would be difficult for him to leave Spain at this stage of his career. Following the weekend's results in La Liga, Real Madrid have now cut down Barcelona's lead at the top of the table to just five points. And while Mourinho is not ready to automatically slot Kaka back into his starting lineup, with Real still challenging for silverware on three seperate fronts, it seems unlikely he will allow the talented midfielder to leave the Santiago Bernabeu.

Marcelo at Punto Pelota The irresistible Marcelino was the guest on Punto Pelota last night, and he didn’t stop fidgeting with the ball or showing off his adorable smile during the entire interview! It’s worth watching just to see Marcelo smile, crack up and laugh. You can really tell that he’s one of the happiest people around. He also gave very amusing answers to the questions too! Here are the highlights (or in other words, the fun parts that no other interview summaries feel is worth your time). I love the first two. on getting stopped by people on the street or in restaurants: it’s mostly the children, because I have a baby face. on the goal “celebration” against Espanyol: I was going to celebrate the goal with the guys on the bench, but since I was so far away, by the time I got there, they had gotten up and then sat down already. I didn’t have anyone to celebrate with, so I asked for water [jajaja!!!]. The goal was dedicated to my family – my wife and son. on his next goal celebration (a viewer question): you all saw my last one, right? It will be asking for water. on watching football: I don’t watch football games in general, other than those that I play in. I didn’t see the Arsenal-Barça game because I was at the movies. (What did you see?) I don’t remember what it was called, but it was about a girl who had the dream to be on TV… It was good and I would recommend it [right, it was so good that you can't even remember the title]. on Adebayor: I call him Manu. He’s very nice, a very good person. He speaks a bit of each language. I don’t understand anything. You can tell he’s a very happy guy. The locker room is full of happiness, and he fits right in. on the team: the locker room is very united, which you can see in the games or the training sessions, with everyone helping everyone else. Everyone jokes around; it’s just not me, Pepe and Cristiano. on Cristiano: he’s very, very sincere. He doesn’t hide. He’s true to himself [they show footage of Cris in a pink cap, sleeveless shirt, gold chain and carrying a bag from the CR7 line. I don't always like his style, but he has improved a lot!!]. on Mourinho: he’s has given me a lot of confidence, he lets me do what I like. on his favorite movie: it’s I, Robot. on Brazil: I miss my friends and the beach from Rio, but I’m very happy here because I’m treated very well. on his house in Madrid: (they show pictures of his house, including his swimming pool, and ask him if he swims). No, not right now, it’s too cold! I have a dog named Willy. I spend a lot of time at home now, more so than before, because I’m happier staying at home, playing with my son, than going out… My son kicks the ball with his right foot (Marcelo makes a very cute little noise of disapproval. The others tell him there’s still time (Enzo is 15 months old)). on Pepe: I would renew Pepe’s contract because he’s a very important player for us and because he’s my friend. on original Ronaldo: for Brazilians, he’s an idol and he’s brought us a lot of joy, and a lot of joy to football as well. Many players want to be like him, but he’s unique. His goodbye was very sad, for the fans and for us footballers. on the biggest prank he’s pulled on one of his teammates: when we won the Liga, I pulled off Robinho’s underwear on the field, but no one saw it. It was funny because no one saw it. on the crab celebration (they show it and Marcelo covers his face in embarrassment): It was from a TV show. I was very ugly there. on his hair (they ask if he will promise to do something if Madrid wins a title, such as cut his hair): no, it took a long time to get it like this. on Raúl: he was and is an idol for el madridismo. I had the pleasure of playing with him. He was important for us. He was our captain until the very last moment. on Roberto Carlos: my idol, the best ever, the one who helped me the most when I arrived. They also show Marcelo some old footage of him scoring while he was still with Fluminense, and he used to celebrate like Hugo Sánchez and Sergio, with somersaults! And in general, they show Marcelo at his most silly and most loco on the field to get his thoughts (and laughter).

Raúl Albiol at El País February 13, 2011 by unamadridista Luis Martín interviewed Raúl Albiol while the latter was on national team duty, and while the interview is a bit too technical for my liking, I do believe that we don’t get enough of El Chori around here, plus I like the picture, so here’s a translation of the more interesting parts of the interview. Two weeks ago, José Mourinho sent a bit of disdain Raúl Albiol’s way. Albiol had substituted successfully for Pepe during one month. However, after the defeat to Osasuna, the coach indirectly blamed him by emphasizing that the team plays much better with Pepe. Albiol should feel hurt, but last Tuesday, he spoke of the situation with serenity. He said that ever since he almost died in a car accident in 2004, he views things philosophically. Q: What was the first thing that came to your mind when you woke up in the ICU after five days in a coma? A: I thought everything had ended for me. Not only football, but also life. I didn’t know if I would be able to get up off the bed, because I couldn’t even move. I saw myself full of tubes, with my stomach covered… I wanted to cry. I knew that I had been in an accident but I didn’t know what had happened and if I would ever be able to play football again. I had many questions. Time went by slowly. And once you’re told that you will survive, you want more. You want to play football. And when you’re told that you can play football, you want to play it at the highest level. It’s like with kids, when you give them something, they want double of it. Q: Did it take long for them to tell you that you could play again? A: It took some time because the situation was delicate. They tell you there is a possibility, but they have to see how you react. The days were an eternity for me. I could only see my family through a glass window. And I suffered. But what I regretted the most was how my parents suffered. They spent a month without sleeping in a hotel in Cuenca. It probably took a year off their lives. Q: Did the accident make you see things from a different perspective? A: I’ve always been a tranquil person and I’ve had patience for everything. Perhaps too much after the accident. I had to be pushed! Because you know that you have to enjoy everything in life, not only football. Q: Are you enjoying yourself with this Madrid? A; I would like to win all the games and win all the titles. I’m enjoying myself because to me this is the best place to be in the world and I’m treated phenomenally. But I want to win titles. Q: Starting the season with an injury is like a handicap with Mourinho. A: I started behind everyone else, with a bit of a disadvantage. When a new coach comes, it’s important for everyone to start from the same point. Right now what I’m trying to do is enjoy the occasions I get. I know there is a lot of competition, but the objective is to start games. Q: What did Pelligrini ask of you and what does Mourinho ask of you? A: No matter who the coach is, a central defender should not commit defensive errors. All coaches want security in the back and to commit the minimum amount of errors. Pelligrini is much calmer. Mourinho has a bit more character, he’s more demanding, he squeezes a lot out of people. But tactically, the differences are just mere details. Q: Why did Mourinho say that Madrid plays better with Pepe? A: You should ask him that. He’s the one that made those statements. We know that with Pepe, we’ve won and we’ve lost. And without Pepe, we’ve won and we’ve lost. You can cite all the statistics that you want. We know that Pepe is a very important player for Madrid. He’s one of the best defenders in the world. From that point on, you can assess what you want. But you can’t say that because one player or another is there that you’re going to win for sure. Q: Do you feel that the team plays worse without Pepe? A: Uffff… The team has had bad games with Pepe and without Pepe. And with me, with Cristiano, with Benzema, with everyone. Let’s see… we’ve had bad games when the starters played and when the non-starters played. You can’t say, “this one is the one at fault.” Q: Can a defender be so influential in the way that you play? A: Pepe is important for the team because he’s a great defender and a great defender brings many things. But another player could also bring those things. Q: Is the central defender a very important figure in Madrid? A: On a team, everyone has their importance. Central defenders? Yes, the same as the midfielders and those who play up front. It’s important to have a defense that is solid and can help the team. Everyone has their own responsibilities. Q: Did Mourinho explain why he took you at against Real? A: No, he didn’t have to. He’s let me play many games already. I try to show him that he’s not making a mistake and he can count on me in any moment, and I won’t let him down. I think the míster is happy with me and I’m very happy with him. Q: What have you learned from him? A: Es un tío muy exigente, he keeps you at your highest level and you have to commit the least number of errors possible. He helps you grow with each day. I think that you can learn things from all coaches, whether it’s positive or negative. He keeps the team on alert, he’s deeply involved. It’s a virtue that he has. In general, he’s very good – he’s won 17 titles. I love

Valencia wary of Schalke threat Valencia defender Ricardo Costa is wary of Schalke's stars ahead of their UEFA Champions League clash. The veteran defender knows their opponents well, having moved to La Liga from Bundesliga side Wolfsburg, and admitted giving coach Unai Emery a few tips on how to deal with their German opposition. "Raul, together with Huntelaar, are the stars of the team," Costa said, in quotes reported in the Guardian. "Nevertheless the strength of Schalke does not really lie there but with the work they put in over 90 minutes. "They never give up, they're strong at set pieces and counter-attacks and are physically very powerful. "We have to focus, play our football, perform well and rely on a bit of luck." "We have to keep in mind we are playing home and away and try to score in our stadium and avoid conceding," Costa added. On the other hand, Schalke goalkeeper Manuel Neuer believes that their 1-0 win over Freiburg in the Bundesliga will help them in their bid to beat Valencia. "We had an outstanding match and that will hopefully help against Valencia," said goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. Manager Felix Magath called on fans to support their team in the fixture. "The fans have been patient just like the team and that is evident on the pitch," he said. "We need this union and I hope it stays that way." The two previous match-offs between the two sides both ended in draws, and it could take something special from either team to win this fixture.

Valencia 1-1 Schalke Raul scored as Schalke forced a draw in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 clash with Valencia at the Mestalla. The former Spain international tucked away the equaliser in the 63rd minute for his 71st goal in European competitions, and the outcome might have been even better for the German side if Junmin Hao had tucked away a chance in injury-time which was saved by Vicente Guaita. The visitors were then reduced to 10 men at the death with the dismissal of Lukas Schmitz. Valencia had plenty of chances to put the game - and potentially the tie - out of reach after Roberto Soldado had put them ahead in the first half, however they could not take advantage and will face a tough trip to Gelsenkirchen. Both sides attacked from the off and Guaita was called into action in the fourth minute when Jose Manuel Jurado swung in a free-kick from the left forcing the Valencia goalkeeper to punch the ball away under pressure. The visitors should have taken the lead in the ninth minute when Klaas-Jan Huntelaar found himself unmarked as Valencia appealed for offside but he completely miskicked. However, it was the hosts who took the lead. Jeremy Mathieu overlapped on the left wing and crossed into the near post where Soldado had lost his marker, and the striker sent a first-time right-footed shot into the bottom right corner. Schalke kept plugging away and Mehmet Topal was powerless to stop the ball hitting his hands in front of his face in the penalty area before Guaita had to be alert to push Peer Kluge's looping header on to the bar, but they were having problems dealing with Valencia's attacking play. Miguel kept getting forward and on one occasion put a ball in for Soldado who flicked a header just past the left post. Schalke also allowed Aritz Aduriz to get free in the box and would have been thankful when his fine first touch was not matched by the finish as the striker put the shot into the sidenetting. Tino Costa unleashed a fierce shot from long range which startled Manuel Neuer as Valencia ended the first half in the ascendancy. Ever Banega's ball across goal was not anticipated and it went inches wide before Schalke had a good chance to equalise when Raul brought down Neuer's goal kick and unleashed a shot from the edge of the area, forcing Guaita to dive to his right to push the ball away. Aduriz again lost his marker in the area but his shot was more like a backpass and Valencia were penalised when Raul equalised. The ball was played in from the left by Jurado and Raul nipped across David Navarro, took a touch and placed the ball under the goalkeeper. Ricardo Costa played a poor backpass with Raul lurking, which the goalkeeper had to be alert to sweep away, and Valencia must have been frustrated to find themselves on level terms given their dominance of goalscoring chances. Aduriz had a feeble attempt at a chip after being played in but Schalke were a far different proposition in the second half and they had a chance to take a 2-1 lead in the tie. Hao found himself with just the goalkeeper to beat. He unleashed a firm, low shot which Guaita did well to turn aside before Schmitz was sent off, although the referee had to be alerted by one of his fellow officials that he had been booked twice.

Valencia 1-1 Schalke Raul scored as Schalke forced a draw in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 clash with Valencia at the Mestalla. The former Spain international tucked away the equaliser in the 63rd minute for his 71st goal in European competitions, and the outcome might have been even better for the German side if Junmin Hao had tucked away a chance in injury-time which was saved by Vicente Guaita. The visitors were then reduced to 10 men at the death with the dismissal of Lukas Schmitz. Valencia had plenty of chances to put the game - and potentially the tie - out of reach after Roberto Soldado had put them ahead in the first half, however they could not take advantage and will face a tough trip to Gelsenkirchen. Both sides attacked from the off and Guaita was called into action in the fourth minute when Jose Manuel Jurado swung in a free-kick from the left forcing the Valencia goalkeeper to punch the ball away under pressure. The visitors should have taken the lead in the ninth minute when Klaas-Jan Huntelaar found himself unmarked as Valencia appealed for offside but he completely miskicked. However, it was the hosts who took the lead. Jeremy Mathieu overlapped on the left wing and crossed into the near post where Soldado had lost his marker, and the striker sent a first-time right-footed shot into the bottom right corner. Schalke kept plugging away and Mehmet Topal was powerless to stop the ball hitting his hands in front of his face in the penalty area before Guaita had to be alert to push Peer Kluge's looping header on to the bar, but they were having problems dealing with Valencia's attacking play. Miguel kept getting forward and on one occasion put a ball in for Soldado who flicked a header just past the left post. Schalke also allowed Aritz Aduriz to get free in the box and would have been thankful when his fine first touch was not matched by the finish as the striker put the shot into the sidenetting. Tino Costa unleashed a fierce shot from long range which startled Manuel Neuer as Valencia ended the first half in the ascendancy. Ever Banega's ball across goal was not anticipated and it went inches wide before Schalke had a good chance to equalise when Raul brought down Neuer's goal kick and unleashed a shot from the edge of the area, forcing Guaita to dive to his right to push the ball away. Aduriz again lost his marker in the area but his shot was more like a backpass and Valencia were penalised when Raul equalised. The ball was played in from the left by Jurado and Raul nipped across David Navarro, took a touch and placed the ball under the goalkeeper. Ricardo Costa played a poor backpass with Raul lurking, which the goalkeeper had to be alert to sweep away, and Valencia must have been frustrated to find themselves on level terms given their dominance of goalscoring chances. Aduriz had a feeble attempt at a chip after being played in but Schalke were a far different proposition in the second half and they had a chance to take a 2-1 lead in the tie. Hao found himself with just the goalkeeper to beat. He unleashed a firm, low shot which Guaita did well to turn aside before Schmitz was sent off, although the referee had to be alerted by one of his fellow officials that he had been booked twice.

Valencia vs Schalke Player Ratings Valencia were held to 1-1 with Schalke in the UEFA Champions League as Raul scored his 71st goal in Europe. Valencia Vicente Guaita - 6 A few stunning saves to keep his side alive in the competition. Miguel - 6 Seemed to be on a different frequency with his right midfielder and did not compliment each other well. David Navarro - 4 No excuse for letting Raul ease past him and score like he wasn't there. Not a night he would want to remember as he struggled to keep up with the Schalke forwards. Ricardo Costa - 6 Got a rather harsh booking for putting the ball into the net after he "did not hear" the referee's whistle. Jeremy Mathieu (Off 79') - 7.5 Lethal everytime he bombed forward to support the Valencia attack, yet competent at the back. Ever Banega (Off 68') - 7 Looked lively going forward, and throwing himself into every challenge Mehmet Topal - 6 He was responsible for breaking up any Schalke attack, which became more difficult as time went by. Alberto Costa - 5.5 Technically poor and really should have been subbed. Alejandro Dominguez (Off 68') - 6.5 Decent performance from him which should put him in good shape to start the second leg. Roberto Soldado - 7 The fox in the box was the first to react to a cross from Mathieu and was rewarded with a goal. Was relatively quiet in the second half though. Adritz Aduriz - 5 Should have done better with his one on one to double his team's lead. Aduriz never really got going and should have been substituted. Subs Joaquin Sanchez (On 68') - 6.5 Surprisingly managed to cause problems with his pace despite his age and he was willing to take on defenders, but probably needed more time on the pitch to make a more telling impact. Vicente (On 68') - 6 Could not come up with a defence splitting pass to win the game. Jordi Alba (79' on) N/A Schalke Manuel Neuer - 7 Conceded early but then kept his team in with a chance to equalise which they did through Raul. Atsuto Uchida - 6 The young Japanese full-back's lack of concentration allowed Mathieu to whip in a cross for the Valencia goal. Benedikt Howedes - 5.5 He must have been giving his manager a heart attack with his unsure clearances and mis-kicks. Christoph Metzelder - 7 A reliable defender who more often than not was there to clean up the mess that his colleagues left behind. Lukas Schmitz (Sent off 90') - 5.5 Deservedly sent off for two bookable offences - bad tackles summed up his work against Valencia. Jefferson Farfan (Off 79') - 6 A mediocre performance from Farfan. More cutting edge was expected from him. Peer Kluge - 6.5 Looked like the half time team talk worked for Kluge as he emerged a different player after the interval. Joel Matip - 6 Helped mainain order in the middle of the park together with Kluge. Jose Jurado (Off 83') - 7.5 A great passer and very intelligent with the ball. Raul - 8 The man of the night. His record-breaking 71st European goal was typical Raul and it gives Schalke every chance of qualifying for the quarter-finals. Klaas-Jan Huntelaar - 5 Caught offside way too many times and when he was onside he missed a glorious opportunity to score early in the game. Subs Julian Draxler (On 79') N/A Edu (83' on) N/A Hao Junmin (On 90') Almost scored the winner with his first touch of the game!