Real Madrid are looking to make 2012 one of their best years in their 111 year existence so far after temporarily moving 13 points clear at the top of the La Liga table after a hard fought 3-2 victory over Real Betis last night.
Once again it was their iconic no.7 Cristiano Ronaldo who ensured victory for Mourinho as he bagged two goals to keep Madrid’s winning streak intact. Madrid have now won 21 of their last 22 games and are on course to win their 32nd La Liga title.
Speaking after the match, a happy and relieved Mourinho was quoted as saying that his side would have to be more careful defensively if they were going to win the title.
“It was a game in which neither side was in control and so you didn’t know who was going to win. At times it is better to be more defensive,
“The game was full of bad passes and so perfect for counter-attacking. I think that a draw would have been a fairer result but it could have finished 2-4 or 4-4 easily. Betis aren’t a big team but they play exciting football for people to enjoy and the attitude of their coach (Pepe Mel) is fantastic.”
Madrid’s nearest contenders for the title Barcelona travel to Santander with confidence soaring high after their 7-1 win over Leverkusen in the Champions League on Wednesday.
Though a win would not change anything at the top of the table, it would definitely keep the Catalans as outside favourites to defend their title. However, what many will be looking for is whether Messi can continue with his impressive goal scoring form.
I for one think Messi will be on the score sheet however, he will be lucky if he scores more than 1 goal. The sad thing about this for Santander is that Barca have other players who can get the job done even without Messi’s full participation.
My prediction for the match: 2-1 in favour of Barca although i am really rooting for a draw or even better a loss.
Photo Credit © Antoon’s Foobar
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