Two matches into the four Clasicos we've been blessed with as soccer fans, and things are getting interesting. After captivating 1-1 draw in La Liga last Saturday, Real Madrid and Barcelona squared off in the Copa del Rey final on Wednesday, and once again we were treated to a magnificent match. Real took the spoils this time, winning the competition for the first time in 18 years. It constitutes their first trophy under Jose Mourinho, and the fact that it came at the expense of both the club and Mourinho's fiercest rivals made the victory even sweeter.
Cristiano Ronaldo hit a magnificent, game-winning header in extra time to win it for Los Merengues, and it seems like Jose is finally getting this group of Galacticos to figure out how to throw a wrench into the Barca juggernaut. They managed to keep Lionel Messi under wraps for most of the game, and took advantage of Barca's aerial weakness with a steady supply of long balls. Barca was left frustrated at the end of it all, with nothing to do but run into the arms of their beautiful, famous girlfriends and look forward to the teams' next encounter.
Next up is the two-legged Champions League encounter we've all been waiting for, with one match each at the Bernabeu and the Camp Nou. Barca have La Liga all but locked up, and Real have returned the King's Cup (or a replica, at least) to their trophy cabinet, and all that remains for the taking is the Holy Grail of European soccer. I, like most, have no idea what will happen. Pep Guardiola recently said that he considers Barcelona to be underdogs for the semifinal, which I find ridiculous. But it's probably his way of marginalizing the inferiority complex which Mourinho utilizes so effectively in getting his teams psychologically prepared for battle. Regardless, Jose has the 5-0 drubbing at the hands of Barca earlier this season to rely on, which surely would provide enough motivation for 10 Clasicos if need be. Besides, it's Real Madrid - Barcelona we're talking about here. If, as a player, you're not pumped up enough by the mere prospect of that fixture, you probably shouldn't be playing football.
The first leg of the Champions League semifinal between Real Madrid and Barcelona is on Wednesday, April 27, at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid. Kickoff is at 2:45 ET, so if you can get out of work or class or any engagement and catch the match, you would be wise to do so. It promises to be one for the ages.
Very good, rey. I think you've really established a voice and style here. I'd encourage you to keep being creative with your linking. I wonder what other things you can do to keep it fresh. but very well informed and well written. A-
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