Sunday, March 18, 2012

Real Madrid 1 - 1 Malaga (Spanish League Day 28)

Football was unfair with Real Madrid. Jose Mourinho's team deserved a victory against Malaga, who drew the score in injury time. Nevertheless, an eight point lead over the runners-up this far in the season is very solid.

Benzema's goal was not enough

Lass played as right back and Benzema started as centre forward. Malaga played brave tactics at the Bernabeu, moving the ball well and preventing Real Madrid from showcasing their full potential. They had the first chance through Rondon, but Casillas saved the day. Isco missed the target with a crossed shot on the 14-minute mark and from then on Mourinho's men started to dominate the match, with Benzema coming close to netting the opener in the 27th minute.

The French striker scored a few minutes later by heading in a Ronaldo cross (35'). Malaga continued to keep possession, but were less of a threat on the local goal.

The visitors lost speed after half-time and Madrid played a more solid game. They had more chances to score and Caballero made an impressive save of a curved Ronaldo shot a few minutes into the half.

Callejon came on for Kaka on the 66-minute mark and nearly scored a header two minutes later. Then, Ozil pulled off a spectacular effort that Benzema failed to finish off with everything going for him. Real Madrid were not able to kill the beast and gave Malaga wings to make a comeback.

Controversy took centre stage close to the end when the referee failed to award a penalty when Marcelo was clearly challenged inside the box (85'). Mourinho made Granero and Higuain come on and Mathijsen was then forced to clear a Callejon chance (89'). Cazorla managed to score the equaliser with a solid shot in injury time (91'), making Madrid drop two points in the game.

Summary

Stadium: Santiago Bernabeu
Attendance: 75,000
Goals: 1-0, m.35: Benzema. 1-1, m.91: Cazorla