madristar

* Home * A Stalker’s Guide to Real Madrid * Iker & his jerseys repeat after me: it’s just three points November 28, 2010 tags: cristiano by unamadridista Cristiano was given the task of speaking to the press two days before the derby, and I liked some of what he said, especially about how this is one more game, and that it’s not just Cristiano vs. Messi. On whether the derby is Cristiano Ronaldo vs. Leo Messi: Son tonterías. It’s a battle between probably the two best teams in Spain. We’re 11 against 11. Messi will do his best to help his team win, like I will. On the game: It’s an important game, but others are as well. This game is worth three points, not six; it’s the same as a game against Getafe or Valencia. On his “jogo bonito”: I like spectacular football and I like to play it. Whoever likes it will like it. And whoever doesn’t can close their eyes or turn off the television. On how much he wants to score his first goal against Barcelona: What’s important is not whether I score, but whether the team wins. I am not obsessed with scoring. I want to score against everyone, not just Barça. Is it special? Yes, but the desire is always the same. On whether he has more responsibilities as a reference point for Madrid: No. I’m one more player on this team. Things are going well for me and for the team, but I don’t believe there is more pressure on me than on anyone else. We all have responsibilities. I always want more, but my teammates also want to do their best, like me. On Piqué: We get along well. We know each other from Manchester. There are no problems between us. On what Madrid’s strategy for the game – to attack or defend – is: the míster will be talking to you all tomorrow, no? Ask him.

Spanish La Liga Weekend Preview All eyes fall on the Nou Camp as heavyweights Barcelona and Real Madrid go toe-to-toe. Although it is still early days in the season, the title race in Spain yet again looks like being between the two arch rivals with a seven-point gap already separating second-placed Barca from third-placed Villarreal. Therefore, the outcome of the two 'Clasico' showdowns could go a long way to determining where the championship will end up this season. Barca have held the upper hand in recent years, doing the double over the capital club in each of the last two campaigns en route to being crowned champions ahead of runners-up Madrid. However, the first 'Clasico' of this campaign looks impossible to call, with both teams in red-hot form. Deportivo La Coruna's veteran coach Miguel Angel Lotina said: "For me the two teams have never gone into the Clasico so strong." Pacesetters Madrid, who boast a one-point lead over Barca heading into Monday's game, are still unbeaten in all competitions under Jose Mourinho with 15 wins from 19 games, while they have won seven on the trot in La Liga. They also have the tightest defence in the division with only six goals conceded and the joint-leading attack along with Barca, both teams having scored 33 times. Fourteen of those Madrid goals have been netted by Cristiano Ronaldo, leaving him one ahead of Barca superstar Lionel Messi at the top of the Primera Division scoring charts. Ronaldo, who has scored a phenomenal 51 times in just 54 appearances for Madrid since his record-breaking move from Manchester United, is in understandably confident mood ahead of the trip to the Nou Camp. He warned Barca: "This Madrid is completely different to last season and we haven't lost a game yet. It will be a very exciting match and, as we are in great form, I think we'll win there. "We are playing well. As well as that, the team has matured so I don't think there's a better time to visit the Nou Camp. "We know it will not be easy because Barca are a fantastic team with great players and a good coach, but I'm sure that it will be a very interesting duel." While the new-look Madrid have been blazing a trail across Spain and Europe, Barca are not far behind them and they go into Monday's encounter with 10 wins in their last 11 competitive games, drawing the other. Last weekend they thumped Almeria 8-0 - equalling the club's best-ever away win - while in midweek they defeated Panathinaikos 3-0 to join Madrid in the last 16 of the Champions League. Messi netted his 150th official goal for Barca in Greece, and took his tally to 16 goals in his last 11 appearances for the club. Speaking after the win, a wary Guardiola said: "We are going into the Clasico in good form, but that's no guarantee of anything. Every game is a test." Away from the Nou Camp, Villarreal will hope to consolidate third spot on Saturday when they travel to bottom club Real Zaragoza, for whom new coach Javier Aguirre will be making his home debut. Villarreal midfielder Cani said: "I would sign off right now to finish third. We would all be very happy with that at the end of the season, which is when it counts." Also on Saturday, Sevilla are at home to Getafe and surprise package Espanyol travel to Atletico Madrid. Espanyol are fourth in the standings, although they have picked up just four points and one goal in six games away from home, where they boast a 100% record. The remaining games are played on Sunday, when new Almeria coach Jose Luis Oltra makes his debut against home-town club Valencia at the Mestalla, while third-bottom Malaga go to Real Mallorca and fourth-bottom Sporting Gijon host Real Sociedad. Also, Hercules meet fellow promoted side Levante, Racing Santander take on Depor, and Athletic Bilbao welcome Osasuna to San Mames.

Mourinho heaps praise on Guardiola Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has given glowing praise to his Barcelona counterpart Pep Guardiola ahead of Monday's El Clasico. The two go head-to-head at the Camp Nou, in an eaglerly anticipated clash between the two giants of Spanish football. Despite the El Clasico hostilities reaching a crescendo, Mourinho has taken time to commend his opponent. "If I were Barca president Sandro Rosell I'd give him a contract for the next 50 years," Mourinho told Fifa.com. "Because he's a club man who's been steeped in the Barcelona way since birth. "He knows the place inside out and he knows the kind of football that Barcelona fans want. He's the ideal man to coach Barcelona for as long as he wants to." The Special One, who used to work with Guardiola at Barcelona during his early coaching career, insists he still respects his former colleague. "We used to work together at Barca and I have only positive memories of that period. Now we're rival coaches but I get the feeling that we respect each other. "In my view that's a good thing, and it'd be perfect if it stayed that way. I first said he'd end up being an excellent head coach years ago." Despite his glowing praise for the Barcelona coach, Mourinho, who is getting his first taste of the El Clasico, will put aside all friendships as he seeks to extend Madrid's lead at the top of the league.

He's gonna play a charity match on 29 dec

UEFA charge Real Madrid quintet UEFA have charged Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho after Tuesday's controversial Champions League match with Ajax. The decision was made after launching an investigation into whether Sergio Ramos and Xabi Alonso deliberately incurred red cards during the clash. Ramos and Alonso, together with Jerzy Dudek and Iker Casillas, are also under investigation for alleged improper conduct. A statement from UEFA said: "UEFA has confirmed that a disciplinary case has been opened against Real Madrid for the improper conduct of coach Jose Mourinho and players Xabi Alonso, Sergio Ramos, Iker Casillas and Jerzy Dudek during the UEFA Champions League Group G match against AFC Ajax in Amsterdam on Tuesday." The case will be dealt with by the UEFA Control and Disciplinary Body on Tuesday, November 30. Alonso and Ramos were both sent off late in the 4-0 win in Holland after receiving second yellow cards for time-wasting. That means the two Spain internationals will be suspended for Madrid's final Group G match against Auxerre - which is a dead rubber for the already-qualified Spanish side - but could see their disciplinary records wiped clean ahead of the knockout stages. There have been accusations that both cautions were deliberately incurred, with substitute goalkeeper Dudek apparently relaying a message - via first-choice custodian Casillas - that Alonso and Ramos, having already been booked, should time-waste and seek second yellows so as to get any ban out of the way. Alonso delayed taking a free-kick in his own half and Ramos delayed taking a goal-kick for Casillas.

UEFA to probe Real red cards UEFA have launched an investigation into whether Real Madrid players deliberately incurred red cards. Sergio Ramos and Xabi Alonso were sent off for time wasting late in Real Madrid's 4-0 win against Ajax in Amsterdam, and their suspensions will rule them out of the dead rubber against Auxerre next week, while wiping their disciplinary records ahead of the knock-out stages. UEFA today confirmed they were aware of the incidents and have instructed disciplinary officials to look into them before deciding whether any charges are to be brought. Under article 5.1 of UEFA's regulations dealing with loyalty, integrity and sportsmanship both players could be charged and have their suspensions extended. The sendings off both looked deliberate, with substitute goalkeeper Jerzy Dudek apparently relaying a message that Alonso and Ramos, having already been booked, should time waste and seek a second yellow so as to get any ban out of the way. Alonso delayed taking a free-kick and Ramos delayed taking a goal-kick for Iker Casillas. Dutch broadcaster NOS also showed footage of Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho speaking to Alonso on the touchline before he picked up his second caution. However Mourinho has denied instructing his players to seek deliberate red cards. Mourinho said: "I spoke with many players throughout the game, not only with Ramos and Alonso. "The two red cards were the result of strange referee bookings in an easy game to monitor. "I didn't like them one bit, but if Ramos or Alonso can't face Auxerre others will take their place. We will not give our game against the French away. We want to win all our matches."

Mourinho puzzled by Madrid red cards Jose Mourinho was delighted with the performances of his side's fringe players in Real Madrid's 4-0 win over Ajax. However, the Madrid boss was less pleased by the two late dismissals of Xabi Alonso and Sergio Ramos for time-wasting by Scottish referee Craig Thomson - something Ramos insisted was not part of a plan hatched by the Spaniards' bench. Madrid had already secured their place in the last 16 prior to tonight's match at the Amsterdam ArenA but the Spanish giants ensured they would finish in top spot in Group G after claiming a convincing victory over the Dutch outfit. Karim Benzema and Alvaro Arbeloa put Madrid 2-0 up at half-time before Cristiano Ronaldo netted a second-half double to complete the scoring as Mourinho continued his unbeaten start to life in charge of the nine-time European champions. Mourinho, who was without several first-team regulars for the match, said of the victory: "I'm very happy, because we're first in our group, which is good bearing in mind practically all the best teams will finish first and we can gain a small advantage in the draw for the last 16. "I'm very happy with players such as Arbeloa, Benzema, (Raul) Albiol and Lass (Diarra), who don't normally play and have responded magnificently. "For me all the players are fundamental. Everyone is going to have their opportunity. The responses that they have given today have been very good. The players are ready for everything, and that makes me happy." Mourinho was less impressed by the dismissals of Spanish World Cup winners Alonso and Ramos in the closing stages after Thomson showed them each second yellow cards for time-wasting. Midfielder Alonso received his caution in the 87th minute for taking too long over a free-kick inside his own half while defender Ramos was booked four minutes later for doing likewise with a goal-kick, which he was taking instead of goalkeeper Iker Casillas. Those dismissals mean both players will be suspended for Madrid's final group game against Auxerre - a match that has nothing riding on it for the Spanish outfit. When he was asked about the red cards, Mourinho said: "I spoke with many players throughout the game, not only with Ramos and Alonso. Stories sell, but the important thing is the 4-0 win and the fantastic game we had. Let's talk about that and not other things." When quizzed on the subject again, Mourinho said: "The sendings-off came after an easy game where the referee has shown some strange yellows. "They are cards that I don't like. "It was an easy game to control. Ajax made a lot of fouls and in the first from Ramos he was shown a yellow card." The Portuguese coach added: "The red cards we picked up don't matter hugely as we have already qualified ahead of the next game against Auxerre. If Ramos and Alonso can't play against Auxerre then there will be others, but we are not going to gift the game to the French. We want to win them all." Ramos insisted Madrid did not deliberately seek the cautions to get suspensions out of the way before the knock-out stages. Ramos said in AS: "We haven't gone looking for the cards. Seeing what the scoreline was, the referee could have spared them. But he sent me off and that's it."

Arbeloa: We can win in Nou Camp Alvaro Arbeloa is confident that Real Madrid can extend their unbeaten streak in the league so far against Barcelona. The two fierce rivals, who square off in the "El Clasico" derby on November 29, are currently just a point apart with Real just about shading it at the top of the table. Despite Barca breathing down their necks, former Liverpool defender Arbeloa believes that his team are well equipped to raid all three points at the nemesis' backyard. "It's obvious that winning in Barcelona would be a great satisfaction for all Madridistas," Arbeloa was quoted as saying by Madrid's official website. "It would be very important to us because they are our main opponent in Spain. "We all know what will happen if we win, especially at their stadium. We believe we can win and we hope to thrill the fans by doing so. "We are very confident because we are doing a good job and working very hard. The match comes at a good time for both teams and I think it will be a real spectacle. We intend to showcase our own style and earn a good result. "It will be a clash between two of the best teams in the world, each with their own style and characteristics. Each has their own weapons and options. It's hard to say which team is better. I side with mine, naturally, but things are very even as of today." Despite Lionel Messi's goalscoring prowess in the derbies with the Argentine having already scored seven times against Real so far, Arbeloa insists that Jose Mourinho has not crafted any specific plan to nullify the Barca prodigy. The Spain international added, "We have no anti-Messi or anti-missile plans. I'd rather none of their 18 men played. "They are a great team. Messi, Xavi and Pedro was phenomenal the other day. Barcelona are an enormously competitive team. They have quality players that make a difference. "Seriously, I want all of their best men on the pitch on Monday. I am confident we can defeat the best Barcelona." Both outfits warmed up for their Monday clash by recording convincing victories in the Champions League during the week.

Mourinho puzzled by Madrid red cards Jose Mourinho was delighted with the performances of his side's fringe players in Real Madrid's 4-0 win over Ajax. However, the Madrid boss was less pleased by the two late dismissals of Xabi Alonso and Sergio Ramos for time-wasting by Scottish referee Craig Thomson - something Ramos insisted was not part of a plan hatched by the Spaniards' bench. Madrid had already secured their place in the last 16 prior to tonight's match at the Amsterdam ArenA but the Spanish giants ensured they would finish in top spot in Group G after claiming a convincing victory over the Dutch outfit. Karim Benzema and Alvaro Arbeloa put Madrid 2-0 up at half-time before Cristiano Ronaldo netted a second-half double to complete the scoring as Mourinho continued his unbeaten start to life in charge of the nine-time European champions. Mourinho, who was without several first-team regulars for the match, said of the victory: "I'm very happy, because we're first in our group, which is good bearing in mind practically all the best teams will finish first and we can gain a small advantage in the draw for the last 16. "I'm very happy with players such as Arbeloa, Benzema, (Raul) Albiol and Lass (Diarra), who don't normally play and have responded magnificently. "For me all the players are fundamental. Everyone is going to have their opportunity. The responses that they have given today have been very good. The players are ready for everything, and that makes me happy." Mourinho was less impressed by the dismissals of Spanish World Cup winners Alonso and Ramos in the closing stages after Thomson showed them each second yellow cards for time-wasting. Midfielder Alonso received his caution in the 87th minute for taking too long over a free-kick inside his own half while defender Ramos was booked four minutes later for doing likewise with a goal-kick, which he was taking instead of goalkeeper Iker Casillas. Those dismissals mean both players will be suspended for Madrid's final group game against Auxerre - a match that has nothing riding on it for the Spanish outfit. When he was asked about the red cards, Mourinho said: "I spoke with many players throughout the game, not only with Ramos and Alonso. Stories sell, but the important thing is the 4-0 win and the fantastic game we had. Let's talk about that and not other things." When quizzed on the subject again, Mourinho said: "The sendings-off came after an easy game where the referee has shown some strange yellows. "They are cards that I don't like. "It was an easy game to control. Ajax made a lot of fouls and in the first from Ramos he was shown a yellow card." The Portuguese coach added: "The red cards we picked up don't matter hugely as we have already qualified ahead of the next game against Auxerre. If Ramos and Alonso can't play against Auxerre then there will be others, but we are not going to gift the game to the French. We want to win them all." Ramos insisted Madrid did not deliberately seek the cautions to get suspensions out of the way before the knock-out stages. Ramos said in AS: "We haven't gone looking for the cards. Seeing what the scoreline was, the referee could have spared them. But he sent me off and that's it."

Ronaldo: El Clasico just another match Real Madrid midfielder Cristiano Ronaldo is adamant that their “El Clasico” clash with Barcelona will not have an added significance. Jose Mourinho's troops are currently a point ahead of Barca at the summit of the La Liga table and Tuesday's 4-0 thumping at Ajax in the Champions League have set them up nicely for Monday's explosive affair with their Nou Camp rivals. Despite the decorated history and glamour of the "El Clasico" fixture, Ronaldo insists that Real will approach it just like any other game. "Although it's an important match for both teams, it's just another match," Ronaldo is quoted as saying by Madrid's official website. "We are one point ahead of them and it will be a tough road game, but I am confident we will earn a positive result. It's not a final. There are still many games to be played. The Portuguese is no under no illusions of the task awaiting his side in front of the vociferous Nou Camp faithful. "They are a difficult team to beat. It's the same team as in recent years and they are especially strong at home. They have shown that they are right in the hunt with us for the league title. "We are working hard and doing well. We know that we are in good shape, which is why it will be a good match." "We are two very different yet very similar teams. We are both good and in the hunt for the Liga title, but we play very different football. "We try to reach the opponent's box quickly and to finish plays as soon as possible. We have our identity, we don't imitate anyone and we will continue doing what we are doing because we have obtained good results." Ronaldo also waxed lyrical over the impact made by Mourinho, who has not lost a match in any competition yet this season. He added: "It's a pleasure and an honour to work with an elite coach who has won it all. I hope Mourinho can use all his experience to bring many titles to Madrid. May the best team win the Clasico, and the best will be Madrid." Barcelona themselves warmed up for Monday's encounter with an easy 3-0 triumph over Panathinaikos in the Champions League.

Mourinho: Wenger is a loser! Jose Mourinho was riled by Arsene Wenger's recent remarks about Real Madrid's controversial time-wasting tactics. The Real Madrid manager taunted Wenger about Arsenal's empty trophy cabinet, as well as their recent 2-0 loss to Braga. Mourinho said: "He (Wenger) should especially explain to Arsenal supporters how he can't win one single little trophy since 2005." Wenger had denounced Real's controversial time-wasting tactics at Ajax Amsterdam in the UEFA Champions League, which saw two of the Spanish giants' players conveniently sent off. Mourinho added: "Instead of speaking about Real Madrid, Mr Wenger should speak about Arsenal and explain how he lost 2-0 against a team in the Champions League for the first time. "The history about the young kids is getting old now. "Sagna, Clichy, Walcott, Fabregas, Song, Nasri, Van Persie, Arshavin are NOT kids. They are all top players." Mourinho and four of his players have been charged by UEFA with improper conduct. The Portuguese has been accused of instructing midfielder Xabi Alonso and defender Sergio Ramos to pick up second yellow cards by time-wasting to get sent off, so they will be banned for their team's 'dead' final Group G clash with Auxerre and have clean disciplinary records into the knockout stage there-after. Mourinho has denied all accusations but Wenger announced his disappointment with Real Madrid, saying: "It's a pity to see that from a big club. It looks, frankly, horrible. You don't want to accept that." The two managers have clashed previously, with the thin-skinned Portuguese having once even threatening to release a "dossier" of information about the Frenchman. Damn Mou!! love himmmm

Busquets: Mourinho is always talking Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets wants his team to do their talking on the pitch as they prepare for the El Clasico. Arch rivals Real Madrid in particular have been making huge noises ahead of their clash at the Nou Camp on Monday evening but according to defensive midfielder Busquets, he is not willing to give them a listening ear. In an interview with Sky Sport Italia, he commented: "[Jose] Mourinho is always talking, but we do not care what comes from Madrid. "With him in charge, they are ambitious and they are winning. Before, they were a good team, but did not have the same ambition. I expect a very intense pressure, beginning high in the team all the way back to Iker Casillas." The lanky anchorman also added that he would love nothing more than to bag the winner against the capital outfit. He said: "It would be a dream to score against Madrid, that would be an unforgettable goal." Real will head into the encounter a point ahead of their fiercest rivals though both sides have registered an impressive 33 goals in the league so far.

Maradona: Mourinho has improved Real Argentina legend Diego Maradona has heaped praise on Jose Mourinho for transforming the fortunes of his current club Real Madrid. Former Barcelona wizard Maradona expressed his admiration for the way the Portuguese tactician has instilled a sense of order and unity into a previously disruptive Madrid squad. Speaking to Portuguese station SIC Noticias, 'El Diego' said, "Now they play how Mourinho wants them to, and how the fans want them to," said Maradona, who met Mourinho a week ago. "I watch all Madrid's games, and I like the improvisation that [Mourinho] demonstrates. How he controls the players, how he carries the group with him." The ex Napoli starlet was speaking to the station as part of a special program to honour the achievements of the former Chelsea gaffer. Mourinho himself took time off to speak to the radio station over his long and illustrious coaching career.

Fabregas: I'm supporting Barca Arsenal skipper Cesc Fabregas has conceded that he will be rooting for boyhood club Barcelona in their clash against Real Madrid. Having progressed through the ranks at the renowned Barca youth academy before being plucked by Arsenal at the age of 16, Fabregas revealed that his Catalan ties means there is only one team he will be cheering for come Monday at the Nou Camp. He stated in an interview with El Mundo Deportivo: "As a Cule, I want Barcelona to win. As a professional, El Clasico is seen as a sensational game in which the club maintains its incredible history, but Madrid are much improved compared to last season's. I see them being more dangerous than in other years. "No one should be surprised at my feelings for Barcelona because I have never hidden them. My family are Cules to the core, I was raised at La Masia, and that's why I say I want to see Barca win." The stylish playmaker has also been impressed by the Jose Mourinho revolution that is currently underway at his former outfit's fiercest rivals. He added: "Their team reminds me of Chelsea, with a typically English game. They push high up, looking for the slightest mistake in midfield, and have attackers who are very dangerous. They are very good at stealing possession in the opposition half." In fact, Fabregas himself was pining for a move back to his spiritual home before being persuaded by Gunners chief Arsene Wenger to remain at the Emirates.

Mourinho prepares to face Barca Jose Mourinho admits to having no idea how his young Real Madrid side will cope with the first Clasico of the season. Mourinho takes his side to the Nou Camp to meet Barcelona for one of two clashes which could decide the destination of the Primera Division title such has been the pair's dominance so far. Madrid lead the way with a one-point advantage over Barca after 12 rounds, with Mourinho well on the way to giving Los Merengues a more attacking style of play. He bought young talent in the shape of Mesut Ozil, Sami Khedira and Angel Di Maria over the summer with the only downside their relative lack of experience in big domestic matches and a shortage of time to gel, a point Mourinho acknowledges. He told AS: "You never know how the team will react. "Physically we are fine and know what to do, but we face a team that has had a lot of time working together and we have only had a few months. "But, in any case, we must be prepared for any eventuality." Mourinho has enjoyed great success throughout his coaching career by building strong, resolute sides which are hard to beat. And he has followed this path once more at the Bernabeu, albeit with a greater amount of flair going forward. He added: "It's very important the coach has a clear idea of what he wants: how to play, how to work each day. "It is one thing to admire someone but something else to copy them. "You must learn from people who have been successful while always keeping your own personality." Mourinho is aware of the phenomenal interest in the game - arguably the biggest in Europe - and the former Porto and Chelsea boss realises both sides have a duty to entertain. "It is our responsibility to put on a great game - the coaches, the players and the referee," he said. "We have to give the world a super game." Madrid could be without one of their leading players in Catalonia, however, with striker Gonzalo Higuain struggling with a back injury. The Argentina international was confined to gym work yesterday and Mourinho will leave a decision on his availability to the last minute. If he is ruled out, Karim Benzema could step into the starting XI or Mourinho could shift Cristiano Ronaldo into a more attacking role and draft in another midfielder.

"El Clasico": Key player battles Ahead of the explosive "El Clasico" clash, ESPNSTAR.com brings you the possible player battles which could unfold. By Sham Majid Cristiano Ronaldo vs Eric Abidal The Portuguese maestro has yet to open his account in the "El Clasico", let alone savour a victory over his club's hated rivals. Nevertheless, the former World Player of the Year has been in sizzling form this season, having already notched a staggering 14 goals in just 12 La Liga encounters. He is also the king of assists, having had a hand in five of Real's goals in domestic action. Under the stewardship of compatriot Jose Mourinho, Ronaldo has recaptured the stellar form he produced while in the latter stages of his Manchester United career. He has been simply sublime every time he has taken to the pitch and Barca leftback Eric Abidal could well struggle to deal with the former's repertoire of skills and deadly finishing. Mesut Özil vs Daniel Alves Precocious German schemer Özil seems to be reveling under the Santiago Bernabeu spotlight and the former Werder Bremen midfielder is increasingly becoming Real's chief creative architect. Like Ronaldo, he too has also contributed five assists to help Mourinho's charges plunder 33 goals so far in the league. Özil has not done too shabbily either in front of goal, already registering three league goals. Though predominantly playing on the left, he often interchanges positions at ease with livewire Ronaldo and his panache and flair can unlock the meanest of defences. Rampaging Brazilian rightback Daniel Alves has firmly established himself as one of the world's best fullbacks. Always looking to bomb forward, the Samba defender is no slouch in defence either and is a key component of Pep Guardiola's philosophy of attacking fullbacks. Xavi Hernandez vs Xabi Alonso The clash of the two "X"s promises to be a fascinating and intriguing affair. Though defined in layman terms as the anchorman who holds the forte in defence and midfield, it would be downright insulting to assume that the Spain international duo are anything but midfield carriers. Xavi and Xabi Alonso both possess technical ability of the highest calibre and their ability to spray passes around the pitch is an absolute delight to watch. Often fulcrums in their respective outfits, the duo are blessed with the ability to control the rhythm and tempo of their teams according to the demands of the match. They both share two assists apiece in La Liga and though their importance to the cause is often understated, their duel on Monday promises to be a clash of two classy exponents of the Beautiful Game. Lionel Messi vs Ricardo Carvalho Argentine sensation Messi absolutely loves playing in "El Clasico" and his incredible record in the derby affirms that statement. The nippy forward bagged a hat trick in his first proper encounter in 2007 and he hasn't looked back since. Messi has plundered a further four strikes against Real, taking his tally to an amazing seven goal haul. Though he is a shade behind Ronaldo having scored 13 league goals so far, he has also engineered five assists for the Nou Camp outfit, highlighting his massive influence on the Barca attack. Adept with either foot and able to slither around the tightest of backlines, the Real rearguard will have to be on their toes to prevent Messi from continuing his scoring prowess against them. No nonsense defender Carvalho, a summer acquisition from Chelsea, has proven over the years to be one of the best centrebacks in the business. Though he last lost a yard of pace or two as compared to his early career with the Blues, he more than makes up for it with his impeccable positioning and timing of tackles. It remains to be seen whether the Portuguese can bully Messi out of the crunch clash. David Villa vs Pepe Spain sharpshooter Villa, who made the switch to Barca from Valencia in the summer, has hit the ground running for his new club by bagging six goals in domestic action. Spain's record goalscorer has also added a new dimension to his all round play, by contributing four assists. His ability to link up brilliantly with Messi, Xavi, Andres Iniesta and Pedro has been a key factor in Barca's deadly attacking triumvirate. Only needing a sniff at goal to find the back of the net, Villa has been a shrewd signing by Guardiola and is adored by the Barca faithful. Real stopper Pepe has only recently been reinstated to the team after being out of action for more than a year due to ligament damage. Lightning quick and as tough as nails, the Portuguese defender will be looking to stamp his mark against both Villa and Barca. Another interesting battle looms.

Messi vs Ronaldo- Head to head The world's finest players square off on Monday when Lionel Messi's Barcelona host Cristiano Ronaldo and Real Madrid. Last year's 'Clasico' clashes were dominated by the Catalans, who won both games en route to winning La Liga. However, Madrid's appointment of Jose Mourinho has levelled the playing field and upped the ante ahead of Monday's big match. Press Association Sport's Phil Barnett takes a look at the two key protagonists. Speed Over 100 metres on a track, the athletic Ronaldo would beat the impish Messi. Crucially, however, Messi can run with a ball nearly as quickly as he can without, while Ronaldo's close control is far less impressive. This makes them both more effective at different moments. Skill Ronaldo is a human highlight reel of superfluous flicks and tricks but is also able to utilise his impressive range of moves to affect matches. Messi has a far smaller bag of tricks and relies only on breathtaking natural ball control and dribbling - the best we've seen since Diego Maradona - to simply outstrip and outwit opponents. Goalscoring Ronaldo has the edge in front of goal. Comfortable with both feet and strong in the air, his record is also more impressive than Messi's, thanks in part to his development into a more central, forward role. However, Messi is catching him up as he also matures into a more advanced position and the two are currently neck and neck - Ronaldo has 14 La Liga goals, Messi 13. Power Ronaldo is bigger and stronger than Messi, who joined Barcelona when he needed growth hormone treatment as a boy and still bears a lightweight frame. The Portugal international can use his size to win balls in the air - when necessary - and maintain his performance for 90 minutes. Yet the diminutive Messi, who is nicknamed 'The Flea', is more robust when challenged, stays on his feet better and tracks back more often. Temperament While Messi is perceived as meek and mild, he is a key figure in the Barca dressing room and coach Pep Guardiola has groomed him to become an understated leader. His infectious enthusiasm, honesty and boyish naivety win him as many admirers as his skills although his tendency to stay on his feet when fouled may frustrate the more cynical Barca supporters. Ronaldo is the polar opposite - tempestuous, sulky and scheming. This, though, represents his winning mentality and commitment to the cause - be it the team's or his own. Big game mentality Both players have been accused of failing to turn up when it matters at times in their career. Messi's goal in the 2009 Champions League final against Manchester United helped erase those doubts, while Ronaldo's woeful World Cup and startlingly ineffective performances against Barca last year leave question marks over his mettle. Verdict Ronaldo is the machine, Messi the magician. The former's attributes stack up better on paper but Messi has the 'je ne sais quoi' which gives him the edge, however slight.

The President of Uruguay visits the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium Florentino Perez served as guide to Jose Mujica and Members of his Cabinet Realmadrid.com / Translation by Michael J. O'Donnell The White Colosseum was visited by President of Uruguay Jose Mujica and eleven Members of his Cabinet today. Real Madrid President Florentino Perez and former Uruguayan player Jose Emilio Santamaria acted as their hosts and guided them through the majesty of the stadium. The visit began at the Presidential Balcony and then went through the local dressing room. The pitch was the delegation's next stop; everyone was greatly impressed and a family photo was taken to immortalize the event. The tour proceeded through the Noble Building at the stadium and, in the Board Room, President Perez presented President Mujica with a replica of the stadium and a signed Cristiano Ronaldo shirt. The Uruguayan Premier in turn gave Perez a shirt of the Uruguayan national team and a traditional container from which to drink mate, a traditional South American infused drink. The Members of the Mujica's Cabinet also received a Ronaldo shirt and a watch. Jose Mujica "I am delighted to get to know a real architectural gem, a living monument that is very surprising indeed. I hope football is the true winner in the Clasico. It will be a formidable spectacle between two football powerhouses and may the best team win."

Ronaldo plays down Messi talk Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo has played down talk of the El Clasico being a duel being him and Barcelona ace Lionel Messi. The duo are widely regarded as the best players on the planet at present and both go into the Nou Camp showdown in phenomenal form. Ronaldo, 25, has struck 17 times in his last 12 competitive outings for Madrid, while he has netted 51 goals in just 54 appearances for the Spanish giants overall since his record-breaking £80million move from Manchester United in the summer of 2009. Messi, 23, is proving equally as unstoppable and has 16 goals in his last 11 appearances for the Catalan giants - during which streak he has netted his sixth hat-trick of 2010 for the club and his 150th official goal for Barca. The duo are also the leading two scorers in La Liga, with Ronaldo having netted 14 goals compared to 13 from Messi. It is a mouthwatering prospect to see the two superstars go head-to-head in what is one of the most eagerly-awaited Clasicos in recent times, but Ronaldo insists the focus should not solely be on the of them. When asked his thoughts on the subject, Ronaldo described it as: "silly talk" "It's part of the news, of the press, to sell newspapers. It's normal, but I don't see the game as a duel between us. We are playing 11 against 11, we have to be concerned about everyone," the Portugal international said. "Of course anyone who scores goals is dangerous, but we have to think about everyone." Regarding his own role in the Madrid side, Ronaldo said: "I'm one more player in this team. Things are going well, as much for me as the team, but I don't considered myself to be under more pressure than others. "We all have responsibilities. I always want more, that's the way I am, but my team-mates have the same objectives, they all want to do their best, like me." The match pits the leading two teams in La Liga against each other, with pacesetters Madrid holding a one-point advantage over Barca, who in turn are seven points clear of third-placed Villarreal as the battle for the Primera Division title already looks to be another two-horse race. Last season there was a 25-point gap between the two Spanish superpowers and Valencia in third come the end of the campaign, with Barca finishing three points clear of Madrid after winning both meetings with the capital club. With that in mind, it could be that the two encounters this season will again be crucial. Ronaldo said: "That could be the case, or it might not be, it's unknown. We will play to win, it's a very important game, we want to win. Will it be decisive? We'll see what happens during the season. "I hope it's a completely different story (this season). We haven't lost this season, and this is important because it gives you confidence, but neither can we be relaxed because we know it will be difficult. "I'm confident because the team are in good form, the coach (Jose Mourinho) has given us confidence, and we hope to get a good result.

Cristiano Ronaldo continues to make a run at Real Madrid's history books. On Tuesday against Ajax, the Portuguese international scored the third and fourth goals of the night and his 50th and 51st since joining Real Madrid. Cristiano Ronaldo reaches the mark in 54 matches played for Real Madrid Realmadrid.com Cristiano Ronaldo continues to make a run at Real Madrid's history books. On Tuesday against Ajax, the Portuguese international scored the third and fourth goals of the night and his 50th and 51st since joining Real Madrid. In what was his 54th match as a Madridista, Cristiano Ronaldo managed to score his 203rd and 204th goals as a professional footballer. The mystique surrounding CR7 began on 10 October 2002, when the youngster scored a brace in Sporting's 3-0 victory over Moreirense. Cristiano's numbers can only compare to those of Real Madrid players from the 1920s, 30s and 40s. Football systems were different then, favouring offensive football and hefty scores. Manuel Olivares holds the tally record at Real Madrid with the 50 strikes he netted in 47 games. Madridistas to reach the 50-goal mark Player Games Year Olivares 47 1933 Gaspar Rubio 52 1930 Cristiano Ronaldo 54 2010 Alday 56 1942 Di Stefano 57 1955 Puskas 58 1960 Pahíño 61 1951 Pruden 64 1946 Ronaldo 69 2003 Barinaga 75 1945 Luis Regueiro 78 1934 Hugo Sanchez 79 1986 Van Nistelrooy 79 2008 Zamorano 85 1994 Molowny 86 1950 Ronaldo scored his first goal as a Madridista on 29 August 2009 against Deportivo La Coruña on Week 1 of La Liga. The Portuguese star eventually ended the season with 33 strikes in his pocket (25 in the league, 8 in the Champions League). He has so far tallied 18 goals in 19 official games in the present campaign. Cristiano Ronaldo's preferred victim is Aston Villa, who he thrashed for nine goals in 14 matches. Wigan is next on the list having conceded seven goals in eight matches to Cristiano, followed by Fulham with seven goals in 12 matches. Since arriving in Spain, Cristiano has devastated Racing with five goals in two matches. Xerez and Malaga are next having given up four goals apiece. CRISTIANO RONALDO'S FAVORITE VICTIMS Team Goals Matches Aston Villa 9 14 Wigan 7 8 Fulham 7 12 Spain Racing 5 2 Xerez 4 2 Malaga 4 3 Since signing for Real Madrid in the summer of 2009, Cristiano has scored 51 goals in 54 matches for an eye-popping average of 0.93 goals per match. Four of the 50 came against Racing earlier this season, while CR7 also has hat-tricks against Mallorca and Athletic Bilbao and eleven braces. Cristiano has scored every which way. With his right foot, his left and his head. Free kicks and penalties. His repetoire is simply endless. Only one thing can be asked about the 25-year old who has 200 goals to his name. Does he have no bounds?

Kaka and Carol at Paul McCartney's concert last night

Kaka and Carol at Paul McCartney's concert last night

no problem:)

Oh he's on fire!!

like a businessman look...