RM 3:1 Gijon

Sporting positioned themselves well on the pitch and made things hard for Real Madrid, even managing to score the opener. But the Whites fought back and dominated the match, eventually turning the score around and winning 3-1.

Real Madrid had many chances on goal in the first half. Higuain had several, first trying to head in a pass from Marcelo (8′), then missing his mark with a crossed shot with his right foot following a 30-metre assist (33’), and finally coming close to scoring from outside the box after receiving the ball with his back to the goal and turning on himself (44’). Goalkeeper Juan Pablo was inspired and thwarted a great shot by Ronaldo (33’).

Manuel Pellegrini realised the match was beginning to resemble the first leg clash between both sides (which ended in a draw) and decided to bring Guti on for Lass. Real Madrid had their first chance to score in the second half two minutes after half-time when Higuain assisted Van der Vaart with a cross into the box, but the Dutchman’s shot went over the crossbar.

Sporting scored six minutes later and Real Madrid were forced to make a comeback. Following a series of set pieces, Van der Vaart scored an equaliser taking advantage of the clearance Juan Pablo had been forced to make from a shot by Ronaldo (55’). Four minutes later, Ronaldo tried to head in the ball following a corner kick by Granero. The ball failed to go in, but Xabi Alonso finished the play off successfully, also with a header (59’). Higuain sealed the victory with a tight and brilliant shot with his left foot (67’). Gago came in for Granero in the final minutes of the match.

Read more...