Real Madrid Continue To Lead Spanish La Liga With Win Against Getafe
Getafe are near the bottom of the standings in the Spanish La Liga. In fact, they are second to the bottom with 2 points, just 1 point about Levante. However, despite what it says in the Primera Division standings, Getafe are not a team to be taken lightly, especially when it comes to a match against their neighbors, Spanish La Liga Champions Real Madrid.
Getafe, which was once coached by current Real Madrid coach Bernd Schuster, showed eagerness to play and opened the match in attacking fashion. Getafe had excellent chances from Ikechuchukwu Uche and Pablo Hernandez, but luck seemed to favor Real Madrid keeper Iker Casillas, who managed to be at the right place at the right moment.
Getafe indeed created many chances as did Real Madrid. Eventually, the deadlock was broken in the 65th minute when a cross into the box from Real Madrid’s Arjen Robben found Sergio Ramos, who turned and managed to slot it into the back of the Getafe goal. The 1-0 advantage was all that Real Madrid needed to collect the 3 points and improve their standing in the Spanish Primera Division to 16 points, maintaining first place with a one-point lead over Villareal and Valencia, who each have 15 points.
Getafe manager Michael Ludrup was disappointed with the outcome of the match, feeling that his side played the better football, but were just unfortunate not to find the back of the Real Madrid net.
“I want to say that I am proud of my team. We played against one of the greats of European football. Real Madrid aren’t used to watching their rivals move them by keeping the ball. Getafe was in outstanding form. Playing well, working hard…but infront of goal we didn’t have any luck. When Casillas was beaten another player appeared on the line. The loss was cruel. The only thing we can do is continue to play like this. When there is quality, and motivation to work and to learn like we have, sooner or later success will arrive,” Ludrup said.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid coach Bernd Schuster was all praises for his defensive squad.
“The defence was sensational, as always. Our defenders and Iker Casillas, who did very well, saved our lives. I want to congratulate Sergio Ramos and Fabio Cannavaro for their great work,” Schuster commented.
While it may have not been an impressive win for Real Madrid, it was a win nonetheless. Perhaps, Real Madrid coach Bernd Schuster is resting some of his key players, like Dutch stirked Ruud van Nistelrooy and Argentinian forward Gonzalo Higuain, for their upcoming UEFA Champions League group stage match against Italian club Lazio on October 3, 2007. Real Madrid will be visitors to Lazio.
Following that UEFA Champions League match, Real Madrid will be hosting Recreativo at the Santiago Bernabeu.
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