Cristiano Ronaldo and Mesut Ozil’s goals in the first 30 minutes of the game lead Real Madrid to the final of the International Champions Cup with a 2-1 victory over Everton.
Ronaldo and Ozil shined in the first football match ever played at the 51-year-old Dodger Stadium, normally used for baseball games, and keeping Real Madrid unbeaten in the pre-season.
Just 14 days away from the season opener in La Liga against Betis, Los Blancos showed more than enough talent and fitness to overcome Everton.
The Toffees had reached the semifinals with a surprise win against Italian league champion Juventus. Everton’s Spanish manager, Roberto Martinez, acknowledged the match was a good chance to test his team against the world’s best.
While his side looked good for stretches, particularly around Real’s penalty box, Everton’s defense was repeatedly caught scrambling when its offside trap was beaten.
Ronaldo broke between two defenders for a golden chance in tenth minute, but the Portuguese international tried to volley Ramos’ long pass and saw his shot fly well over the goal.
However, a few minutes later, he scored when a clever pass from Ozil left him alone in Everton’s penalty area, where he faked Howard and sent the ball to the back of the net.
Everton had their chances as well. Marouane Fellaini’s header glanced off the post and Sylvain Distin’s goal was denied for a foul.
But then, Ronaldo and Ozil then slipped behind the Toffees’ defense again, with Ronaldo assisting the German international for another goal.
Everton narrowed the deficit when Nikica Jelavic caught Steven Naismith’s header and scored with a flying kick in the 61st minute. However, the Liverpool club were unable to find an equalizer, although they played more confidently until the end of the game.
Los Blancos will play the final of the tournament on Wednesday night in Miami. They will face the winner of Chelsea’s meeting with Milan.
