Barcelona 5 - 0 Real Madrid (Highlights) : Clasico destruction by Barca

Barcelona 5 - 0 Real Madrid

This Clasico was built up as the closest in living memory. Two teams repleat with the best players the world has to offer. Contests of the highest order all over the park. Many believed what little difference there was between the two sides, Barcelona widely recognised as being the superior footballing side, the famous Mourinho factor more than made up for it. If anyone knew how to stem Barcas flow, it was Mourinho. Real Madrid came into the match one point ahead of Barca, and on the back of superb wins over Athletic Bilbao in La Liga and Ajax in the Champions League. Up until this afternoon there was very little to choose between the two sides. Then the massacre began.

And there's no two ways about it, whoever witnessed tonights match at the Camp Nou saw a match so ridiculously one-sided, it seems absurd to think the two were regarded as equals beforehand. There was absolutely nothing equal about Real Madrid and Barcelona tonight. Nothing at all. From the very first minute, Barcelona grabbed hold of the ball and through a mixture of breathtaking vision and metronomic precision, refused to give it back. Real Madrid were chasing shadows, and on the few occasions they were afforded possession, contrived to give it straight back to their hosts. It's been the story of the last five Clasicos.

Barcelona won the personal duels all over the park. Iker Casillas was badly at fault for Barcas second goal and looked a pale shadow of the man who has lead Spain to European Championship and World Cup glory. Victor Valdes, on the other hand, repelled everything that came his way. Cristiano Ronaldo appeared in fits and starts, but his contribution to the match was minimal compared to the second-half onslaught offered by Lionel Messi once Pep Guardiola pushed him into a deep-lying central role behind David Villa. The move saw Messi produce two sublime passes which lead to both of Villas goals. Cristiano, as he so often does in the big matches, retreated into his shell once the scoreline got embarrassing. He wasn't the only one.

Pep Guardiola more than won his tactical battle against Jose Mourinho with that positioning of Messi in the seconf half. So many times Mourinho has got it right in the past, but today he was caught short. With Gonzalo Higuain injured, perhaps he should have moved Cristiano Ronaldo into a more central role in attack, allowing him to place an extra man in midfield to close the spaces Barcelona can so easily take advantage of. He made a similar tactical switch at half-time bringing on Lass Diarra, but it was too late. Also, the high line played by the Real Madrid defence was suicidal. I lost count of the number of times Xavi or Iniesta set one of their front three one-on-one with Casillas. Had 'El Guaje' not strayed offside so often, it could well have been more than five.

Looking at both sides, and it's always easy to do in retrospect, this result was on the cards. Perhaps not such a convincing result, but a Barcelona win was always likely. Out of Barcas starting XV, not one was playing their first Clasico. Switch over to those lining up for Real Madrid and Mesut Ozil, Sami Khedira, Angel Di Maria and Ricardo Carvalho were all making their debut in this most historic and suffocating of fixtures. With three of those 24 years old or under, nerves undoubtedly played their part. This Real Madrid team are very good and will only get better, especially with Jose Mourinho at the helm. But right now Barcelona are on another planet, with tonights 5-0 thrashing a timely reminder of the chasmic difference between the two sides.

Check all the goals and action below:

Ajax 0 - 4 Real Madrid (Highlights)

Ajax 0 - 4 Real Madrid

Absolutely storming win for Real Madrid at the home of one of Europes sleeping giants. Goals from Karim Benzema (an absolute beauty), Alvaro Arbeloa and two from that main man Cristiano Ronaldo did justice to what was a convincing performance from Madrid, fresh off their 5-1 thrashing of Athletic Bilbao and just before their biggest game of the season so far, that small matter of a Clasico in the Camp Nou. A little talking point to come out of the match was the forced yellow cards from Xabi Alonso and Sergio Ramos. More ruthless efficiency from Mourinho, or Real Madrid up to dirty tricks? Personally I think if it's not against the rules, Real Madrid are well within their rights to do what they did. It won't win them many friends, but Mourinho has never been into making friends. He wins trophies.

Real Madrid 5 - 1 Athletic Bilbao (Highlights)

Real Madrid 5 - 1 Athletic Bilbao

Any who thought Barcelonas demolition job on Almeria would place extra pressure on Real Madrid to get a result were emphatically proven wrong. Athletic put up a valiant fight, especially through Fernando Llorente upfront, but Real Madrids deadly efficiency on the break, coupled with the unerring accuracy provided by Cristiano Ronaldo meant Madrid ended up running out clear winners. Gonzalo Higuain got the ball rolling on 19 minutes when he collected a neat through-ball from the lively Angel Di Maria, to barge his way past a couple of defenders and finish past Iraizoz.

The second was a demonstration of just how devastating Real Madrid can be on the counter. Athletic had been threatening an equaliser when Real broke out of their own box, the ball flowing from Higuain to Mesut Ozil, who played a perfectly weighted pass onto Cristiano Ronaldo who fired in a cracker with his left foot. That could have been Bilbaos cue to dsintegrate, but they came right back at Mourinhos side and deservedly pulled one back through Llorente, although his position when the ball ricoched into his path looked ever so slightly offside. The third goal came after the break, Sergio Ramos converting a penalty which left the whole stadium, Mourinho included, 'Why Ramos and not CR7?' It was a bizarre situation. Nobody could think of an answer.

From the on Cristiano Ronaldo took over, smacking in a swerving free-kick, that admittedly Iraizoz should have done better with, before converting a penalty of his own after a foul from Amoriebeta on Granero. Anything Messi can do he will have thought. Athletic had fought tooth and nail but Real Madrids class was simply too much. Barcelona may have struck eight times, but this victory was evey bit as emphatic and sets up a mouth-watering fixture next Monday which will have the whole footballing world brought to a standstill.

Sporting Gijon 0 - 1 Real Madrid (Highlights): La Liga Sunday

Sporting Gijon 0 - 1 Real Madrid

Jose Mourinho may well have been hidden from view in the darkness of Sportings VIP box, but his team were thrust into the limelight, riding out a barrage of abuse from the stands and a stream of fouls from Sportings players to hold out for an invaluable win. They were promised a 'burning oven' of an atmosphere from Sporting coach Manolo Preciado, and they got it. El Molinón was in vociferous mood, letting Mourinho know in no small way, that his derogatory comments didn't get down too well in Asturias.

On the field it was a true battle of attrition. Sporting knew they couldn't match Real Madrid for skill. So the men in red and white, roared on by a partisan home crowd, got thoroughly stuck in Madrids stars. It was brutal at times, with Mesut Ozil and Cristiano Ronaldo the recipients of some overzealous challenges. Credit to Real Madrid though, they never lost their heads. Patience was the key, especially in a first half were chances were at a premium and defences were on top. Alberto Botia and Gregory were impeccable at the back, restricting Madrid to a Higuiain shot that struck the base of the post and fell into the grateful arms of Juan Pablo.

The second half followed a similar pattern, Gijon running and puffing. Real Madrid assured, confident, sure that their chance will come. Karim Benzema came on and looked dangerous probing in and around the box. The Frenchman looks a different player since Mourinho has started to nuture him. And he played a large role in Madrids winner, as their patience was rewarded with Higuains winner eight minutes from time. Sergio Ramos swung in a cross from the right, Benzema peeling away at the back post to plant a header on goal. Juan Pablo got two hands to it, but the ball squirmed out of his reach and there was Gonzalo Higuain to tap into an empty net.

Seconds later Iker Casillas came to his sides rescue with a stunning one-handed stop from David Barrals header. Saint Iker is back in business. And so it was that Real Madrid held out for a win that maintains their one point lead over Barcelona. You can't help but think this is the sort of fixture Real Madrid would have drawn or lost in recent years. Mourinho has instilled a discipline in his defence and midfield, helped tremendously by the performances of Ricardo Carvalho and Sami Khedira, that allows their potent attack to do the rest. In this Real Madrid you can trust.

Real Zaragoza 1 - 2 Sevilla

Real Zaragoza went from injury time joy to injury time agony in a week. If last weeks tie against Mallorca sent the Zaragoza faithful home with a spring in their step, this weeks action will have sent them home wondering why on earth their team insist on giving cheap goals away. Todays defeat against the ten men of Sevilla sees Real Zaragoza hit rock bottom of La Liga. Jose Aurelio Gays men surely have far too much quality to go down. They said the same three years ago when Diego Milito, Ricardo Oliveira and Sergio Garcia graced La Romareda. No prizes for gueesing what happened that season.

Luis Fabiano struck the games opening goal, latching onto a superb through ball from Frederic Kanoute to fire past Toni Doblas on the half hour mark. It was a rare moment of quality in a match in which neither side managed to wrest control of the midfield, leaving the strikers starved of ammunition. Gay sent his side out with five at the back, a tactic that he will surely have to discard at home where they simply cannot afford not to win. You can undertand his concern with Zaragoza leaking goals for fun early in the season, but their away form is hopeless at best. They desparately need to convert La Romareda into a fortress.

The match sprung into life after half-time. Zaragoza were visibly lifted by the presence of talented substitute Nicolas Bertolo and it was the Argentinian who dragged his team level with a thumping header from a Gabi corner. From then on both teams set about grabbing a winner, a point seemingly not good enough for either. Sevillas task was made that little bit harder with the dismissal of Fernando Navarro, still it didn't stop them from piling forward. In the dying seconds of the match their bravery was rewarded, courtesy of the habitual moment of madness that Zaragoza treat us to on a weekly basis. Sevilla must have felt their christmas had come a month early.

This time it was Jiri Jarosik who was to blame for an inexplicable backheel in his own half that set Alvaro Negredo through on goal. Like Fabiano he made no mistake when one-on-one with Doblas, sliding the ball past the keeper to strike the injury time winner. Jose Aurelio Gay held his head in his hands. He cannot be held to account for these isolated actions from his lacklustre players, but with his team alone at the foot of La Liga on seven points he'll be lucky to survive the week.

Valencia 2 - 0 Getafe

How Valencia needed this win having been in freefall for the last month. Goals from Tino Costa and David Navarro were enough to earn all three points in the Mestalla against a Getafe team that are in all kinds of trouble, having failed to win in their last six matches. Joaquin and Juan Mata were impressive for the home side, creating plenty of danger down the wings, while the defence reverted back to early season form with a comfortable shut-out, helped by the dip in form suffered by the Getafe attack. So Valencia jump back into the top four, with Getafe sitting in mid-table but only four points away from the relegation zone.

Malaga 1 - 0 Levante

Manuel Pellegrini made it a happy debut at Malaga, as his new team put their dreadful home run of five defeats from five behind them to earn a first win of the season at La Rosaleda. It wasn't pretty and Levante had their chances, but with the two goalkeepers the stand-out performers, Eliseus thumping 35 yard drive was enough to steal all three points. Pellegrini has stated he expects more from his team, but right now they need results.

Hercules 2 - 1 Real Sociedad

The formbook was turned on it's head in the Rico Perez as Hercules came from behind to snatch a win against Real Sociedad. The first half was dominated by Real, with young Frenchman Antoine Greizmann turning in an electric performance, topped off with the games opening goal. But Hercules hit back after half-time, David Trezeguet continuing his fine form with the leveller before cult hero Royston Drenthe sent the home crowd ballistic with a rocket of a free-kick that ended up settling the match.

Racing Santander 0 - 0 Espanyol

A scoreline that reflected what was mindnumbing game of football, with only the odd flash of ambition. And when they came it was more often than not from Racing. Unfortunately for Miguel Angel Portugal and his team, they found Cameroon keeper Carlos Kameni in inspired form, repelling all that flew towards him, including an Ariel Nahuelpan penalty after half an hour. Racing also felt they had a case for a last minute penalty, but to the fury of the Sardinero crowd the ref waved away their appeals and the match ended all square.

Mallorca 0 - 0 Deportivo La Coruña

A match completely lacking in ambition, characterised by Depors ultra-defensive 5-4-1 formation designed to hold out for away points. Depor coach Lotina may well have bemoaned his teams lack of creativity in the final third but this team is designed not to lose rather than search for the win. Mallorca also seemed content to hold back, and with the matches two strikers, Riki and Webo both demonstrating they have a long way to go to establish themselves as consistent goalscorers, a 0-0 draw was always on the cards.

El Clasico Between Barcelona and Real Madrid to be played on Monday 29 November

It's official. The biggest fixture in Spain, and possibly the whole of Europe, will be played on a Monday. Not a Saturday, nor a Sunday. A Monday. Barcelona and Real Madrid will get the ball rolling at the Camp Nou in the seasons first installment of 'El Clasico' at 21.00 hours (CET) on 29th November as a result of the Catalan parliamentary elections taking place that weekend, which has forced the authorities to move it from Sunday 28th on security grounds. Strangely enough, fans across the country have taken the news quite badly, complaining that a fixture of such importance just HAS to be played at the weekend. Why? Because.

Of course there are some lucky lads and lasses who are rejoicing, namely those working the elections (ahem, politicians that receive nice free tickets, not that they had anything to do with this of course) and those unfortunate souls who work nights at the weekend. For once, they'll be able to savour one of the most eagerly anticipated Clasicos for years. There are other sets of fans who smuggly chirp on about if all the other clubs have to play on a Monday (Sevilla - Valencia on the last matchday being a perfect example), why not the almighty Barcelona and Real Madrid?

I understand their logic, but there's something about it being on a Monday that I fear will detract from the occasion. You just get the feeling it won't quite be the same. Take Wednesdays Manchester derby as a indicator of what I'm trying to get at. Jorge Valdano takes it a little further when saying; 'Playing a Clasico on a Monday is the easiest way of discrediting Spanish football infront of the watching world'. Harsh words. And then we could go on about reduced audience numbers and so on.

Perhaps it's simply the fact that you have to go to work first? Deep down I'm not too bothered about it being on a weekday, and in truth it should hardly matter to the players. Neither is there much of a difference for the fans. Play the match at 10pm on a Sunday and you still have to go into to work early the next day, and we all enjoy the Champions League don't we?

So instead of whining, let's think positive. You can partake in a whole load of pre-clasico banter with your workmates. You can say you witnessed only the third ever Clasico to have been played on a Monday. The players will have had an extra days rest, ready to give it hell on the field. And when all the fun is over, there are only four more days till the weekend. Happy days.

As seen on SBNation: http://www.sbnation.com/2010/11/11/1808946/el-clasico-set-to-cause-tuesday-wipeout

Cristiano Ronaldos 'Espaldinha': Entertaining Or Insulting?

There were 92 minutes on the clock. Real Madrid were two goals to the good and another win over their red and white neighbours was assured. Cristiano Ronaldo had blasted a shot towards goal only for David De Gea to punch the ball skywards. As the ball dropped down, Cristiano arched forwards and let it bounce of his back and straight into the path of Xabi Alonso. Cue absolute indignation from the Atletico players and a national debate about whether such actions are good for football, or a show of disrespect towards your rival. Forgive me if something has passed me by, but is football not supposed to be entertaining? Do we pay money to watch boring sideways passes, wayward shots, over hit crosses, mistimed tackles, tap-ins and route one football? No? Thought not.

No, we pay money for the chance to witness something special. We pay money to watch Robinhos stepovers, Ronaldinhos tricks, Beckhams free-kicks, Xavis passes, Messis wondergoals. And yes, Cristiano Ronaldos 'back' passes. Labelled as an 'Espaldinha' in Spain, Cristianos moment of indulgence has split the country in two. Those seemingly jealous of a man who has the world at his feet and is currently propelling Real Madrid towards another spell of domination and those who don't see anything wrong with him giving the watching (and paying) public what they want.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic did something very similar last season against Mallorca, playing a pass of his back whilst on the run to give Messi a shooting opportunity. I don't remember the big Swedes action receiving the same thorough examination. Sadly, what we are seeing is a baying section of the public taking any opportunity to berate a player who is capable of the extraordinary and knows it. Don't get me wrong, the Portuguese winger does not help his cause with the odd dive, arrogant comment and those infamous strops. But his latest trick drew me to chuckle and applaud. 'Bravo Cristiano' I thought.

What CR7 did was pure entertainment. For me, it embodies what football is all about. Who doesn't get that warm feeling of nostalgia when remembering Higuitas scorpion-kick save against England? Blancos two-footed ball hop? Or Ronaldinhos no-look passes? Hell, I was even a fan of that poor young Brazilian, Kerlon, who used to flip the ball onto his head like a performing seal to dribble past defenders. Was it against the rules? Of course it wasn't. Instead of ridiculing players capable of lighting up matches with moments of magic, let's save the vitriol for players who cheat, break legs, and get fellow professionals unfairly sent off. Or we'll get to a stage where we'll be saying...'Come on now Lionel, don't put that defender on his backside again, you'll hurt his feelings' or 'Cristiano, please refrain from putting an almighty amount of swerve on your free-kicks, the goalkeeper didn't sleep for days after the last one'. Is that what we want?

As seen on SBNation: http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2010/11/9/1804408/cristiano-ronaldo-back-pass-entertaining-or-insulting

Real Madrid 2 - 0 Atletico Madrid (Highlights) - La Liga Matchday 10

Real Madrid ensured that Atletico Madrid's shocking derby record would carry on into 2011 as two early goals from Ricardo Carvalho and Mesut Ozil sentenced Quique Sanchez Flores's team to yet another defeat at the hands of their eternal rivals. Just like they had done in Milan, Jose Mourinhos men burst out of the blocks with Atletico struggling to get a foothold in the game. And the 'Rojiblancos' were made to pay for their slow start as centre-back Carvalho popped up out of nowhere to waltz through a static defence and slot past birthday boy David De Gea.

Atletico were rocking, and they were still coming to terms with going behind when Mesut Ozil scored the second. Real Madrid won a free-kick out wide on the right, with Ozil curling a delicious cross-come-shot that left De Gea rooted to the spot. At that point it appeared as if Atleti were going to be handed a thrashing, but instead of pushing for the killer third, Real Madrid began to sit back on their lead which allowed Atletico a route back into the match.

Thiago started to see plenty of the ball in the middle, although with Sergio Agüero cutting an isolated figure upfront and Diego Forlan struggling to impose himself on the match, Carvalho and Pepe were never put under any sustained pressure. One moment of controversy to come out of the first half was a possible penalty decision on Xabi Alonso after he blocked a Reyes shot with his hand, the referee deeming the action as ball to hand, much to the desperation of the Atleti players.

The second half followed a similar pattern with both teams creating scoring opportunities, Gonzalo Higuain and Diego Forlan both striking the post with a glorious volleys and Iker Casillas thwarting Agüero in a one-on-one, but there were to be no more goals. Man-of-the-match Ricardo Carvalho left the field early courtesy of a nasty-looking eye injury after he was elbowed by substitute Diego Costa, but that would end up being the only blot on yet another derby day victory for Real Madrid.

Barcelona never looked in any danger of falling to a shock defeat in Getafe as they recovered their best form to run out easy 1-3 winners, keeping them in touch with leaders Real Madrid. Lionel Messi was at his sublime best as he and David Villa tore through a helpless Getafe defence to score two superb goals which put Barca out of reach after only 30 minutes. For long periods, the Getafe players were chasing shadows, as Barcelona lit up the Coliseum with some stunning one-touch football that brought back memories of the sextruplet winning team of 2008/2009.

Messi could easily have had three or four on another day, but he found Getafe keeper Jordi Codina in inspired form. Yet the keeper was badly at fault for Barca's third, playing a poor pass out to defender Cata Diaz which lead to the defender conceding possession on the edge of his box, and then failing to block Pedro's run on goal, leaving the Barca man with a simple tap in. Getafe were handed a lifeline on 70 minutes when Pique was sent off for handling in the box, Manu reducing the deficit from the spot. Then Getafe received a red card of their own, Derek Boateng seeing a second yellow, and with him went Getafes hopes of rescuing anything from the match.

Villarreal fell behind to an early Fernando Llorente goal, but the 'Yellow Submarine' were ultimately too much for Athletic Bilbao from then on, creating countless chances and scoring four. At times it was incessant pressure from Villarreal, Borja Valero controlling proceedings in midfield and Guiseppe Rossi a constant menace in attack. Nilmar levelled the match on 39 minutes, and a shocking error from Bilbao keeper Gorka Iraizoz let the home side take a half-time lead, as his dreadful clearance fell straight at the feet of Santi Cazorla, who made no mistake with a first-time shot.

The second half saw Villarreal at their vibrant best, carving through Athletic Bilbao at will. Guiseppe Rossi had been guilty of some poor finishing throughout the match, but he made no mistake with only five minutes left to make the points safe. Substitute Jefferson Montero then gave the scoreline a more realistic look with a fourth in the dying seconds of the match.

In the weekends other matches, Espanyol maintained their fantastic start to the season with a 35 yard scorcher from Javi Marquez after only a minute enough for a victory over Malaga which leaves 'Los Pericos' in the Champions League spots and Malaga rooted to the bottom of La Liga. Manuel Pellegrini has a hell of a job on his hands at La Rosaleda. Real Zaragoza relieved some of the pressure on manager Jose Aurelio Gay, but they had to come from behind twice to eventually overcome Mallorca with a last minute penalty from Gabi. Real Sociedad had Joseba Llorente to thank as the striker scored the only goal of their match against Racing Santander, a win that places the Basque club in the European positions.

Osasuna finally found their shooting boots for the visit of Hercules, Monreal, Lolo and Vadocz getting the goals to give the home team a 3-0 win which lifts them into mid-table. Deportivo La Coruña finally put to bed their disastrous away form which had seen them fail to win away from El Riazor for over a year. Riki and Aythami got the goals which consigned Levante to a 1-2 defeat which keeps the newly promoted side in the relegation zone. Finally, Sporting Gijon and Almeria had to settle for a point apiece, Nacho Novo notching a late equaliser to cancel out Almerias opener from Miguel Corona. It was just reward for an improved second half showing by Sporting after Almeria had dominated the first 45 minutes.

As seen on SB Nation: http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2010/11/8/1800225/la-liga-matchday-10-real-madrid-take-the-derby-honours-villa-and

Hercules 1 - 3 Real Madrid (Highlights): Cristiano Ronaldo on fire!

Hercules 1 - 3 Real Madrid
(1-0) 3' Trezeguet, (1-1) 52' Di Maria, (1-2) 82' Cristiano Ronaldo, (1-3) 86' Cristiano Ronaldo

Esteban Vigo may have predicted an unlikely away victory for his Hercules side at Barcelona, but a similar prediction for their home tie against Real Madrid left him a little red-faced. And that was after Hercules took a shock early lead when David Trezeguet expertly headed in a superb David Cortes cross, leaving Iker Casillas rooted to the spot. Real Madrid were reeling, hounded by an insatiable pack of Hercules players that were undoubtedly inspired by their managers rallying call. Madrids normally assured back four looked jittery, as the home side carved out several chances to grab a killer second. But it's games like this where Jose Mourinho really earns his bread, and after what Cristiano Ronaldo labelled the 'perfect orders' at halftime, Real Madrid turned it around in the second half with three goals, two of which were courtesy of a fantastic cameo from underfire striker, Karim Benzema. Hercules keeper Juan Calatayud had a nightmare with Angel Di Marias leveller just after the break, but there was nothing he could do as Benzema set up a late double for man-of-the-moment, Cristiano Ronaldo. That's 12 league goals for CR7 now and 40 goals in his last 41 matches. Simply irresistable.

Ridiculous debate of the year award: Who's worse Benzema or Villa?

I regard myself as a peaceful kind of guy. Very little rattles my cage, but every now and again a story will be published that will get me more than a little agitated. This morning I woke up to a debate of epicly ridiculous proportions: Who is worse....Karim Benzema or David Villa? I mean are we being serious? Debates between Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo or Pele and Maradona I can understand. But this? Who is worse....a guy that has just helped Spain win the World Cup, beating Spains record goals tally weeks later, or a languid Frenchman that has failed to justify even a quarter of his mammoth €35 million fee and was left out of Frances World Cup squad after a shocking debut season at Real Madrid? After I had peeled myself from the roof, I decided there must be something more to it, aside from the customary Barca-bashing that the Madrid press so often participate in. I wasn't wrong.

The journalists in question may well be partisan, whiter than white, but they're not stupid. I don't genuinely believe they regard this as a rational debate. There's a little bit of history with David Villa and most of it involves the darling of the Bernabeu, Raúl Gonzalez Blanco. Many in Madrid see Villa as the man who stole the number 7 jersey off Raúl for the national side. The man who pushed Raúl out of the limelight, signalling the beginning of the end for 'El Gran Capitan'. They havn't done too badly since though, have they? Although to lay the blame at Villas door is unfair in the extreme, if indeed there is any blame to lay. He didn't pick the squads or the team, that wily old fox Luis Aragonés did.

Then we come to the record goals tally. No prizes for guessing who held the record before David Villa. Of course, it was Raúl, who managed 44 goals in the red and yellow of Spain before being forced to call it a day in 2008. Now that record has been broken by Villa after he slotted in his 45th goal from the penalty spot at Hampden Park. At only 28 years of age, there is surely a bagful of further goals awaiting 'El Guaje'. How that must bite at Marca HQ. And let's not forget, the striker from Asturias had a choice to make at the end of last season. Swap the white of Valencia for the white of Madrid, or travel up north to the Camp Nou. After choosing to join the red and blue of Barcelona, it's hardly surprising he's not flavour of the month in the capital.

So we come to this season. David Villa has been off-colour infront of goal, but even then he outguns Karim Benzema. With four goals to his name he is averaging a goal every 209 minutes in all competitions compared to a goal every 323 minutes for Benzema. The Frenchman has already had a year and a half to accustom himself to the demands made of any player at Real Madrid, whereas Villa has hardly had a chance to unpack. Have no doubts that soon, very soon, the real David Villa will stand up and Karim Benzema will be put out of his misery and shown the Bernabeu trapdoor. At which point we can look back on this silly, little debate and wonder what all the fuss was about.

Real Madrid 2 - 0 AC Milan (Highlights)

Real Madrid 2 - 0 AC Milan
(1-0) 13' Cristiano Ronaldo, (2-0) 14' Ozil

Malaga 1 - 4 Real Madrid (Highlights) | Barcelona 2 - 1 Valencia

Malaga 1 - 4 Real Madrid

Who said Real Madrid are lacking in firepower? They couldn't score a goal for love nor money two weeks ago, but ten goals in two matches has seen Madrid jump to the summit in La Liga. Not only have they conceded the least goals they have now also scored the most and it's clear Mourinho's message is beginning to hit home. Of course, it was only a matter of time before Cristiano Ronaldo and Gonzalo Higuain hit form, possibly spurred on by reports of Madrid chasing a new striker, and they were irresistible in La Rosaleda as they ripped a shell-shocked Malaga to pieces. Cristiano was at the heart of everything last night, with two goals and two assists as the Portuguese star carried on his impressive international form onto the club stage. Mesut Özil also put in a dazzling shift as he proved he can make things happen away from the Bernabeu, while Higuain showed the world his radar is back in business. Much of the talk before the match had been about whether Real Madrid could cope with Malaga's speed and incision on the break, but in the end it was yet another home defeat for the Malagueños and a defiant show of strength from the team now looking down on the rest.

Barcelona 2 - 1 Valencia

Barcelona survived a first half onslaught from Valencia to nick two second half goals and jump above Valencia in the table. Pablo Hernandez had slotted Los Che in front following a surging run from full back Matheiu, and could so easily have made it two, denied by Victor Valdes when through on goal. It would have been no less than what Valencia deserved having starved Barcelona of possession. It was a surreal first 45 minutes, the Camp Nou so accustomed to seeing their side dominate proceedings, saw their team struggle badly, continuing a worrying patch of form that has already seen them drop five points at home so far this season. But commeth the hour, commeth the man, and that man was Xavi Hernandez, returning from a spell on the sidelines to set up two goals after half time for Andres Iniesta and Carlos Puyol. The first assist was a fantastic one-two with Iniesta, and the second a pinpoint cross which was headed home emphatically by Puyol. With David Villa and Leo Messi off-colour once again, it was exactly the tonic that Barca needed and Pep Guardiola will be hoping it awakes his team from their recent slumber.

Real Madrid 6 - 1 Deportivo La Coruña (Highlights)

Real Madrid 6 - 1 Deportivo La Coruña

(1-0) 5' Cristiano, (2-0) 24' Ozil, (3-0) 34' Di Maria, (4-0) 53' Higuain, (5-0) 60' Ze Castro, (5-1) 78' Juan Rodriguez, (6-1) 89' Cristiano Ronaldo

Six games into the new season and we finally get a Real Madrid exhibition. As poor as Depor were, and they really were atrocious, Real Madrid circulated the ball aroud the Bernabeu turf with renewed purpose and intent. Xavi Alonso and Mesut Ozil directed from behind the fearsome front three of Cristiano, Di Maria and Higuain, with the defense as sound as ever lead by the imposing figures of Carvalho and Pepe. Angel Di Maria continued his rich vein of form with a beauty of a header while Cristiano was back to something like his best, nodding in an early opener and storming through in the last minute to cap off Madrids six goal thriller. The only thing that will still concern the Madridistas is the anonymous form of Sami Khedira. Perhaps there's something I'm missing, but what does he do? Mourinho probably thinks the same, as he hauled off the invisible man for Lass Diarra at half time. All in all it was plain sailing in the rain for Real Madrid as their goal drought came to an emphatic end. Will they now push on from here?

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE: Auxerre 0 - 1 Real Madrid (Highlights)

Auxerre 0 - 1 Real Madrid (Highlights)
(0-1) 81' Di Maria

Real Madrid left it late to secure a win in Auxerre which leaves them on course to qualify for the knock-out stages of the Champions League. Yet all those question marks that have been hanging over Mourinhos men remain as they produced another misfiring performance in the Stade de l'Abbé-Deschamps. It's a pattern which has plagued Real Madrids showings since the start of the season: largely untroubled at the back, relatively lacking in creativity and  in the middle and woefully inaccurate infront of goal. Cristiano Ronaldo and Gonzalo Higuain are now officially in the midst of a crisis of confidence, both in desparate need of a goal or two. As for Karim Benzema, it's becoming increasingly clear he simply is not good enough to play for Real Madrid. With those three in dire form, Madrids lack of goal isn't hard to understand.

On the up side, young Angel Di Maria hopped off the bench to slam home a superb late winner and do that funny heart-shape thing with his hands. Good job too, cause no-one else would have scored for love nor money. Still, it's six points from six in the so-called 'group of death' and you have to wonder how efficient this Madrid team will become once Ronaldo and co get their scoring boots on. Not all doom and gloom by any means.

Athletic Bilbao 1 - 3 Barcelona (Highlights) | Levante 0 - 0 Real Madrid

Athletic Bilbao 1 - 3 Barcelona
(0-1) 54' Keita, (0-2) 73' Xavi, (1-2) 90' Gabilondo, (1-3) 92' Busquets

After their uninspired win over Sporting Gijon, all the talk in the Spanish press had been about Barcelonas 'Messidependencia'. When you think about it, which team wouldn't depend on a player like Messi? It was the same last season with Real Madrid and the 'Cristianodependencia' debate. It's an argument I don't really understand. Teams will always depend on their greatest stars to produce the goods. And they'll always miss them when they're injured. Just some handle the loss better than others, especially when you have Xavi, Iniesta, Villa and Pedro to fall back on. Tonights trip to the Cathedral of Spanish football was a test of Barcas mettle. A raucous home crowd, a rain-soaked pitch and a team of red and white foot soldiers. There are few tougher assignments in La Liga, especially when you're without your biggest name.

Barca passed with flying colours. Yes, they were helped by the refs odd decision to send off Amorebieta for a robust challenge on Iniesta, but the Azulgrana were always in control. Athletic Bilbao probed away and the giant Fernando Llorente threw himself around but with Iniesta and Xavi dominating in the centre and Villa a constant threat, Bilbao always struggled to get hold of the ball. And things were made even more difficult after half an hour when Amorebieta was shown red when the ref should really have produced yellow. With the sending off, Athletics hopes vanished into the cloud filled skies. David Villa had hit the post in the first half, but the inevitable opening goal came early in the second half as Keita neatly slipped the ball under Iraizoz. Then Xavi fired in before Bilbao gave themselves late hope with a tap in from Gabilondo. But with seconds remaining Busquets made sure of the three points after David Villa had also seen red for hitting out at Gurpegui. Messidependencia? Not today.

Levante 0 - 0 Real Madrid

I'm pretty sure tonight was the night Jose Mourinho realised the scale of his task at the Bernabeu. Off the pitch he's doing all the right things. This weeks comment that 'teams gift wins to Barca' made sure Real Madrids dodgy start to the season has stayed well clear from the back pages of the papers. On the pitch is another matter. The defence is fine, with Carvalho, Pepe (suspended for tonights match), Sergio Ramos and Marcelo protecting San Iker admirably. Astonishingly it's up top where Madrid are suffering. Gonzalo Higuain has been shocking at times this season while Cristiano looks desparately short of inspiration. And as for Mesut Özil, the young German just can't get into games away from the Bernabeu. I have no doubts that all will come good, but the longer their dry spell continues, the more problems Real Madrid will have in putting teams to the sword. Six goals from 105 efforts so far this season tells its own story.

But to only speak of Madrids failure infront of goal would be doing Levante a huge injustice. After the start they've had, you would think they would have been dreading the visit of Madrid, but Levante were well up for it. Ballesteros and Nano were rocks at the back but it was very much a team effort. Manager Luis Garcia (an ex-Atletico player) remarked that his team finished the match 'physically exhausted'. It was certainly a point well-earned and after the midweek win against Almeria, they seem to have finally acclimatised to life back in La Liga. But for Madrid it was another 0-0 to add to their opening day no-score draw at Mallorca and they drop a point behind Barca and two behind leaders Valencia.

Sporting Gijon 0 - 2 Valencia

(0-1) 7' Topal, (0-2) 10' Soldado

Valencia carried on their stunning start to the season with a notable win against Sporting Gijon at El Molinon. Topal and Soldado got the two early goals that ripped the life out of Sporting and had the match sewn up after only ten minutes. Juan Mata and Pablo Hernandez put in classy performances and Roberto Soldado always looks like he has a goal or two in him. Sporting manager Manuel Preciado believes Valencia are serious candidates for La Liga but I have to disagree with him. Yes they've had a storming start to the season, but I look at the teamsheet and while it is full of quality, I can't see them seriously challenging Barca and Real Madrid over the course of a whole season. As always when it comes to the debate of the 'big two' in Spain, I hope they prove me wrong. In the meantime they have an impenetrable defence and an exciting attacking style that is bringing goals and points. Their biggest test so far awaits midweek. A visit from Manchester United.

Atletico Madrid 1 - 0 Real Zaragoza
(1-0) 20' Diego Costa

Deportivo La Coruña 0 - 2 Almeria
(0-1) 4' Uche, (0-2) 18' Uche

Hercules 2 - 0 Sevilla
(1-0) 21' Trezeguet (p), (2-0) 38' Trezeguet

Espanyol 1 - 0 Osasuna
(1-0) 24' Alvaro Vazquez

Mallorca 2 - 0 Real Sociedad
(1-0) 5' Cavenaghi, (2-0) 61' Cavenaghi

Racing Santander 0 - 1 Getafe
(0-1) 16' Victor Sanchez

Malaga 2 - 3 Villarreal
(1-0) 4' Eliseu, (1-1) 21' Cazorla, (1-2) 23' Rossi, (2-2) 29' Rondon, (2-3) 33' Cazorla

Real Madrid 3 - 0 Espanyol (Highlights)

Real Madrid 3 - 0 Espanyol
(1-0) 28' Cristiano Ronaldo (p), (2-0) 79' Higuain, (3-0) 87' Benzema

Strange old game that saw Real Madrid struggle to find their rhythm before putting nine man Espanyol to the sword with an improved second half performance. The first 45 minutes saw Espanyol battle away in the middle of the park, making life uncomfortable for the home side, although Madrid carried the greater threat through Di Maria and Ronaldo. Trouble was they found it hard to create chances against a well-organised defence lead by Forlín and Galán and with Cristiano Ronaldo a shadow of the all-conquering winger/goalscorer extraordinaire we are so used to seeing. In the end it was a harsh decision on Luis Garcia, punished for handball when he was protecting his face in the wall from a free kick, that saw Real edge ahead with a Cristiano penalty, despatched with aplomb. It was hardly a fair reflection of proceedings at that stage and Espanyol had cause for complaint. With the speed that CR7 gets on the ball, I'm not sure how it can be labelled intentional handball.

After half-time we saw a more fluent Real Madrid, with impressive showings from Sergio Ramos, Ricardo Carvalho, Marcelo and Xabi Alonso helping things along nicely. Slowly but surely there are signs that Jose Mourinho is beginning to turn things around at the Bernabeu. Winning is one thing, but these most demanding of fans want to win in style and there were signs after half-time that Real Madrid are beginning to loosen the shackles of doubt that has plagued their start to the season. Pepe and Galán were both harshly sent off in quick succession, with Galáns red card surely a result of the uproar following that tackle by Ujfalusi on Messi. Had the defender commited the same foul on anyone else apart from Ronaldo, I'm convinced he would only have seen yellow. Gonzalo Higuain and Karim Benzema (what good that goal will do for his confidence) wrapped things up late on with well-taken strikes before Forlín saw the third red card of the evening after seeing two yellows, both for berating the ref. Pochettino didn't look overly impressed with the needless petulance shown from his centre back, nor with the manner of his sides defeat. The result flattered Real Madrid, and a dangerous-looking Espanyol will feel hard done by, but there's no denying Mourinhos men deserved all three points.

Tonights other matches:

Athletic Bilbao 3 - 0 Mallorca
(1-0) 44' David Lopez, (2-0) 62' San Jose (p), (3-0) 92' Perez

Osasuna 3 - 1 Real Sociedad
(0-1) 16' Tamudo, (1-1) 37' Pandiani, (2-1) 42' Camuñas, (3-1) 74' Aranda

Jose Mourinho gets angry! (Video)

I just had to post this video. A few of the many highlights Jose Mourinho produced during the match between Real Madrid and Real Sociedad in San Sebastian. The fantastic bottle-throwing moment was courtesy of a defensive mistake from Sergio Ramos which almost lead to a freak equaliser from Antoine Griezmann. I liked Manuel Pellegrini, but he's not even close to Mou when it comes to sideline histrionics. Keep them coming Jose.

LA LIGA: Real Sociedad 1 - 2 Real Madrid (Highlights)

Real Sociedad 1 - 2 Real Madrid
(0-1) 51' Di Maria, (1-1) 61' Tamudo, (1-2) 75' Cristiano Ronaldo

It wasn't a great day for Jose Mourinho, but it ended on a high note as Real Madrid fought out a precious victory in Anoeta. Real Sociedad put up an almighty fight, and had the lively Antoine Griezman taken one of two glaring misses in the first half, they could well have caused a deserved upset. Having been spat at upon leaving the team coach and deprived of taking over Portugal for two matches next month by his club, Mourinho cut a frustrated figure on the touchline, with one truely comical moment in the second half when he flew into a blind rage, launching a bottle of water into the dugout in the process. The sulky showman is already causing a sensation in Spain and while many strangely take offence at his arrogant demeanour, I can't get enough of the man. Football is all about entertainment and Mou provides it by the bucketload.

Madrid are still to get into their stride, but as always they did enough to claim the three points. Angel Di Maria finally marked his entrance into Spanish football with a goal of the highest order and although Tamudo sneaked in to deflect Greizmanns ferocious free-kick in the net to level the scores, Cristiano provided one of his trademark bullets, aided by a heavy deflection from Pepe, to hand his team the win. It's dubious as to whether he should be awarded the goal, and even he looked embarrased to celebrate, but what CR7 wants, CR7 gets! Madrid survived a late onslaught, aided by the awesome defensive partnership of Pepe and Carvalho, and now all eyes focus on Barca as they travel to the Vicente Calderon tomorrow to take on high-flyers Atletico Madrid.

Todays other results:

Sporting Gijon 2 - 2 Athletic Bilbao

(1-0) 12' De Las Cuevas, (2-0) 23' Sangoy, (1-2) 28' Gurpegui, (2-2) 58' Llorente

Espanyol 1 - 0 Almeria

(1-0) 47' Callejón

Mallorca 2 - 0 Osasuna

(1-0) 25' Chori Castro (p), (2-0) 92' De Guzman

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE: Real Madrid 2 - 0 Ajax (Highlights)

                        Photo courtesy of EFE/Alberto Martín at elmundo.es

Real Madrid 2 - 0 Ajax

(1-0) 30' Anita (o.g), (2-0) 73' Higuain

Nothing overly spectacular from Mourinhos men in white, but enough to get the job done. Following Cristiano Ronaldos comments yesterday when he claimed the crowd should spend their energy cheering the team on instead of booing, there were some grumbles from the Bernabeu and in a way you could understand why. At times Real Madrid produced some quality football, but they were almost always let down by poor finishing or a poor final ball.  Frustrating for fans who over the years have become accustomed to the Zidanes, Figos and Ronaldos of this world. They need to give this team time to settle, they'll be told. Story of the last two years. One shining light was young Mesut Özil, who carried on were he left off against Osasuna with another exciting display that earned him his second ovation in four days. The German is going to be a big hit in the capital, no doubt about it.

Cristiano Ronaldo on the other hand had a miserable night. Maybe it's just me, but I can't help but feel the guy has created an ongoing battle in his mind against Leo Messi, and he's losing in a big way right now. Nothing went right for CR7, not for want of trying, though he really doesn't help himself with those temper tantrums. After one particularly glaring miss late in the second half he remained rooted in the Ajax penalty area while play continued. You could sense the crowd were getting tired of his petulance. The sooner he sorts out this childish attitude the better. For him, for Mourinho and for Real Madrid. Bigger battles lie ahead, but a solid start from Madrid. Check the goals from Anita (o.g) and Higuain below.

La Liga Matchday One: Barcelona, Atletico and Sevilla the early pacesetters

Life in La Liga didn't get off to the best of starts for Jose Mourinho. A trip to plucky Mallorca was never going to be an easy task, but after yet another summer of splashing the cash, and with a fair few weeks of preparation, you would have expected Real Madrid to pick up the three points. Nevertheless, Gonzalo Higuain and Cristiano Ronaldo were the main culprits, as Madrid wasted numerous chances, while Mallorca keeper Dudu Aouate put in an inspired shift. For me, Real Madrid still lack an identity, something which plagued them all last season. With the players they have at their disposal they will always get chances, plenty of them. But to overhaul Barcelona and the cream of European football they really need to find a style to call their own and stick to it. Luckily for them, Mourinho is a master in this art. Just look at what he did with Porto, Chelsea and Inter Milan. His teams may not have won many plaudits for entertainment over the years but they all had their way of playing, leading the special one to two Champions League trophies in six years. Don't expect any Pellegrini style witchhunts. Mourinho will be given plenty of time to sort this out.

Trouble is Barcelona may already be out of sight. They picked up just where they left off last season with a demolition job on Racing Santander, orchestrated by the irresistible front three of Iniesta, Messi and debutant David Villa. All three got on the scoresheet, with Andres Iniestas goal a sublime first-time volleyed effort from well outside the area. Elsewhere, there were convincing wins for Sevilla and Valencia, as the usual suspects failed to disappoint on the opening day of the season. Out of the three new kids on the block, only Real Sociedad chalked up three points with a noteworthy victory over perennial slow starters Villarreal, while Levante and Hercules will have to wait until next week for their second chance to get precious early points on the board.

Racing Santander 0 - 3 Barcelona

(0-1) 4' Messi, (0-2) 33' Iniesta, (0-3) 62' Villa

Just check out Iniestas piece of magic. Out of this world. Leo Messi already gets his Pichichi 2010/2011 campaign off and running with a delightful chipped effort, while Victor Valdes began his hunt for the Zamora in fine fettle after repelling Tchites penalty. Barcelona already into their glorious stride and David Villa finds the back of the net on his league debut. Racing coach Miguel Portugal reckons they are even stronger than last season. Ominous.

Mallorca 0 - 0 Real Madrid

Not the start Jose Mourinho was looking for. Real Madrid created a wealth of chances, but with Higuain in misfiring mood and Mallorcas defence/keeper on fire, a 0-0 draw was inevitable. Things got worse for Mourinho when Cristiano Ronaldo was ruled out for 2/3 weeks after the match was a muscle strain. Queit debut for Canales, while Carvalho looked solid and Özil more than useful when he joined the party late on.

Levante 1 - 4 Sevilla

(1-0) 10' Ruben Suarez (p), (1-1) 12' Konko, (1-2) 28' Negredo (p), (1-3) 62' Konko, (1-4) 87' Renato

Sevillas post Spanish Supercup/Champions League elimination hangover looked to have dragged over to La Liga when Levante took an early lead, but well taken goals from unlikely source Konko, and a penalty from Negredo got the Sevillanos back on track. Levante early candidates for bottom place on this showing.

Espanyol 3 - 1 Getafe

(1-0) 33' Osvaldo, (2-0) 54' Osvaldo, (2-1) 61' Galan (o.g), (3-1) 94' Datolo

Espanyol, spurred on by their victory in the Trofeo Ramon Carranza, hit the ground running with red hot striker Osvaldo blasting two in a convincing win over a dissapointing Getafe. Life could be difficult for the Madrileños without Pedro Leon and Roberto Soldado.

Deportivo La Coruña 0 - 0 Real Zaragoza

Real Zaragoza did more than enough to put Depor to the sword in a drab match, but a combination of slack forward play and a quite incredible miss from new boy Marco Perez (see video!) meant Los Maños left with only a point. Could be a long season for Depor on this evidence.

Osasuna 0 - 0 Almería

This match was never going to set the world alight but a goal would have been nice. Neither team attacked, neither team looked like scoring. Both teams seemed happy to finish the match with a point. You won't see many goals from Almeria or Osasuna this season.

Real Sociedad 1 - 0 Villarreal

(1-0) 57' Xabi Prieto

Real Sociedad coach Martin Lasarte opted to go for local youth for their first tie back in the big time and it worked wonders. Carlos Martinez and Xabi Prieto put in quality performances with the latter grabbing the all important goal that got the team from San Sebastian off to a winning start. Villarreal were just dismal. Will we see a repeat of their infamous start to 2009/2010?

Malaga 1 - 3 Valencia

(0-1) 9' Aduriz, (1-1) 44' Sebas Fernandez, (1-2) 70' Joaquin, (1-3) 74' Joaquin

There are many, myself included, that thought Valencia would struggle badly this season after losing Villa and Silva. Yesterday proved us wrong. For the time being at least. As long as Joaquin continues to produce match-winning cameos and Aritz Aduriz keeps banging them in, they'll be fine. Staying tight at the back will be vital. Does Cesar have another cracking season in him?

Hercules 0 - 1 Athletic Bilbao

(0-1) 46' Llorente

Hercules found out the hard way. Missed chances and a failure to capitalise on incessant pressure will be punished, especially when big Fernando Llorente is around. The World Cup winner stooped to head in a 46th minute winner to get his team out of a tricky situation against a lively home side who faded badly as the second half wore on.

Atletico Madrid  4 - 0 Sporting Gijon
(1-0) 11' Jurado, (2-0)  40' Forlan, (3-0) 62' Forlan, (4-0) 93' Simao

A breathtaking performance from Atletico. Jurado waved goodbye to the Vicente Calderon with a goal and a dazzling display, with Diego Forlan continuing his scoring form from the World Cup. Even the much-maligned Tomas Ujfalusi chipped in with a marauding display down the right that will give young left back Canella nightmares for weeks to come. Simaos late goal was an absolute beauty. European Supercup winners and top of the league. Not a bad week for Quiques men. 

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE GROUPS 2010/2011 - Real Madrid drawn in group of death

Here you have the Champions League draw which gave us the groups for the 2010/2011 edition of the most glamourous competition in world football. Three Liga teams were in the draw and whilst Barcelona will be relatively happy with the three teams they've been pitched against, although it does include another tough trip out to Rubin Kazan once more, Valencia and even more so, Real Madrid, will be feeling a little hard done by. Valencia face tricky ties against Manchester United and Turkish unknowns Bursaspor, while Real Madrid will have to negotiate their way out of a group containing AC Milan, Ajax and Auxerre. Quite a few European trophies out of that lot. Mourinhos baptism of fire. My prediction: All three to make it to the knock-out stages.