Rafa Benitez’ reign as Real Madrid boss started with a loss after Los Blancos were denied by Roma on penalties at the MCG in Melbourne.
The 10-time Champions League winners had many of their established stars in the starting line up, with Manchester United target Sergio Ramos given the captain’s armband for the evening. Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, Luke Modric, Raphael Varane and Marcelo all started the game at the iconic stadium that seats 100,000 spectators.
It was the Italians who began the game the brightest, and they could have been ahead after only five minutes, when de Rossi hit the bar.
Real grew into the game though as the first half wore on, with Bale looking the most lively of the attack. Ramos also created some space on a set play but fired over when he could have given the La Liga side the lead.
The second half saw a raft of changes from both sides, interrupting the game as a spectacle. For Los Blancos, the likes of Karim Benzema, Toni Kroos, and Isco were introduced.
Neither side could break the deadlock and the match went to spot kicks. In a high quality shoot out, the first six takers for each side scored. On the seventh round of kicks, Madrid’s new right winger Lucas Vasquez saw his effort saved before former Barcelona midfielder Seydou Keita netted for Roma to win 7-6.
Los Blancos face Manchester City in their next pre-season game on July 24.
Rafa I wish you all the best as you bring out the best of this squad.Hhala Mmadrid.
[…] where Los Blancos were crowned winners of the International Champions Cup Australia. Los Merengues drew 0-0 against Roma in their first match, although the Italians won the subsequent penalty shoot-out. Yet, Madrid would […]