║║ La Liga Season 2012-13 ║║

lker Casillas · Aug 15, 2012

lker Casillas · Aug 15, 2012

lker Casillas · Aug 15, 2012

Valencia announce deal for Haedo Valdez
The Paraguayan striker will move to Mestalla upon the completion of a medical, after spending a season with the Russian Premier League outfit

Manchester City on brink of appointing former Barcelona vice-president Soriano as new chief executive
Premier League champions closing in on a replacement for Garry Cook following new twist in CEO search

Cristiano Ronaldo, Iniesta & Messi shortlisted for Uefa Best Player in Europe award
The Primera Division stars are still in the running to win the second edition of the individual award after receiving the most points in a vote among sports journalists

Juventus ready to spend €20m on Llorente
The Spain international's current club revealed earlier this week that he will not sign a contract extension, and the Serie A champions are now willing to improve their offer

'Nothing' in Song Barcelona talk, insists Arsenal boss Wenger
The Gunners boss claims that there has been no contact with the Blaugrana over the Cameroon star, but the player himself could not deny that the Catalan club were interested

We cannot repeat Bojan mistakes with Deulofeu, says Barcelona B boss
The young attacker is regarded as one of Catalan giants' brightest prospects, but they are in no rush to promote him to the first team, according to reserve trainer Jordi Mestre

Nacho Monreal: I have no intention of leaving Malaga
The full-back has moved to quell the fears of the club's fans by announcing that he has no desire to leave despite the departures of a number of high-profile players

Sahin set to leave Real Madrid - report
The Turkey international could be on the move again after one disappointing season at the Primera Division champions, and could leave the Blancos this week

Fabregas: I never really got to grips with Guardiola's system
The midfielder had a difficult year at the Catalans last term, and feels that his problems were mainly down to the high demands of the successful coach's style of play

Villa delighted to make Barcelona return
The striker, who suffered a fractured tibia last December, admits he feels like a footballer again after marking his comeback in Saturday's 2-0 friendly win over Dinamo Bucharest

Ronaldo is better than Messi without question, says Bolt
The award-winning athlete is backing the Portuguese star to win this year's Ballon d'Or, claiming that the winger is a more rounded player than his Argentine rival

Real Madrid strikers Karim Benzema & Gonzalo Higuain reject PSG - report‏
Qatari owner Sheikh Al-Khelaifi frustrated after attempts to lure more top stars ended in failure

Xabi Alonso criticises timing of Spain international
The Real Madrid midfielder questions the decision to stage a friendly so close to the start of the season but feels his side are prepared for the new campaign.

'Real Madrid hungry for more success' - Karanka hails squad unity after United States tour
After Los Blancos finished their World Football Series campaign unbeaten, the Spanish assistant has been left enthused by the excellent signs he has seen during pre-season

Vilanova: Villa guarantees goals
The Barcelona coach has welcomed the return of the striker and is confident he will play a crucial role in leading the club to success this season

Cristiano Ronaldo is good but I prefer Lionel Messi, admits Gheorghe Hagi
The Romanian legend waded into the classic debate by revealing his admiration for the Argentine star ahead of the Blaugrana's final friendly in Bucharest

Real Madrid in talks with Higuain over improved deal until 2018 - report
the Argentine attacker is supposedly on the verge of signing a new deal with the Spanish titleholders as negotiations reach their final stages

Barcelona are a pleasure to watch, says Larsson
The former Sweden star has nothing but praise for the Catalan giants, and believes that Lionel Messi will win the Fifa Ballon d'Or

Fabregas: Barcelona take Spanish Supercopa very seriously
The former Arsenal midfielder is eagerly anticipating the encounter with the Liga champions, and has stressed the Catalans are aiming for victory

Varane thanks Real Madrid for first France call-up
The Blancos centre-back praised his club side after becoming one of the new additions in Didier Deschamps' first national squad for the friendly against Uruguay on Wednesday

Official: Feyenoord sign Mathijsen from Malaga
The Dutch stopper becomes the latest player to flee La Rosaleda, having penned on a three-year contract with the Eredivisie side, who recently missed out on the Champions League

Fabregas: A mental block caused my loss of form
The 25-year-old has accepted that his performance levels dipped last season, but is excited about working with Tito Vilanova, as Barcelona begin life after Pep Guardiola

Mourinho praises Real Madrid team spirit
The Portuguese trainer is delighted with his side's preparations ahead of the new season, and feels that there is a sense of unity in the squad that continues to grow

Pique: Barcelona will try to win everything
The 25-year-old centre-back is delighted with his side's pre-season campaign, and is adamant that the Catalans will continue challenging for titles under new boss Tito Vilanova

lker Casillas · Aug 15, 2012

La Liga clubs call off strike action

After saying they would boycott the first Spanish league games, 'rebel' clubs have backed down and the new season will start as planned

Aug 14, 2012 2:40:00 PM

By Stephen Gillett

The curtain on the new Primera Division season will be raised this Saturday, after the threat of a potential strike was averted.

Some thirteen La Liga teams had mooted the idea of boycotting the opening fixtures of the season to protest against inequalities in the distribution of television revenues.

However, the president of the Spain's Liga ruling body (LFP), Jose Luis Astiazaran, confirmed that the new campaign will start on Saturday, as planned.

"The games this weekend will be held on schedule," said Astiazaran in a brief statement made to the media on Tuesday.

The strike action was avoided after a meeting on Tuesday between rebel clubs, LFP representatives and others such as Spain's Secretary of State for Sport, Miguel Cardinal.

Champions Real Madrid begin their new term by taking on Valencia on Sunday, while Barcelona play Real Sociedad on the same evening.

lker Casillas · Aug 15, 2012

Jose Mourinho says he should now be known as the Only One

The 49-year-old tactician revealed he should be called the "Only One" considering the long list of titles he has won during his managerial career

Aug 13, 2012 7:01:00 PM

By Ryan Bailey

Jose Mourinho believes he should be labelled the “Only one” instead of the “Special One”, after becoming the only coach to win the so-called top three European Leagues.

Speaking to Portuguese television channel SIC on Monday, Mourinho explained that as his managerial career has progressed, he has become less selfish and less focused on individual goals.

"Things have been going well for me, thank God. I am focused on others much more these days. The pleasure of winning with Inter Milan was seeing a club, which had not won for 50 years, winning again.

That is what entices me more and more, instead of pursuing individual goals." He said.

He won La Liga last season with current club Real Madrid, he won Serie A twice with Inter, the Premier League twice with Chelsea and the Portuguese Liga twice with Porto. On top of all that, he also won the Champions League with both Porto and Inter.

"Like me or not, I am the only one who won the world's three most important leagues. So, maybe instead of the 'Special One', people should start calling me the 'Only One'," Mourinho said in an interview that aired on Monday.

The Real Madrid boss was nicknamed “The Special One” during his time in England after calling himself just that during a press conference following his switch from Porto to the Blues in 2004.

Real Madrid kick off the new campaign with a clash against Valencia this weekend.

lker Casillas · Aug 17, 2012

Angel Di Maria praises Jose Mourinho's impact at Real Madrid
The Argentina international has recognised how the Portuguese coach has shown faith in him during his time at the club, and spoken of his and the team's ambitions this season

Manchester City announce Ferran Soriano as new chief executive
The Premier League champions have appointed the former Barcelona man, who brings more than 20 years experience to the role and will take up his position on September 1

Suker: I want Modric to join Real Madrid
The president of the Croatian football federation is hopeful that his compatriot will get his desired move to the reigning Spanish champions

Wenger chasing Sahin but Song could be on his way out of Arsenal
The Cameroon international looks set to be another big-name departure from the Emirates Stadium following Robin van Persie's departure, but the Gunners boss has targets in mind

Hoeness: Hats off to Athletic Bilbao for standing firm in Javi Martinez talks
The Basque side had refused to let the midfielder leave for anything under €40 million, and earned the respect of the Bayern Munich chief in so doing

Barcelona are ready for Real Madrid, says Adriano
The Brazilian defender is looking forward to the start of the new season, and added that the Blaugranas want to do better than in 2011-12

Iker Casillas: Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are the best
The Real Madrid captain refused to reveal who he thinks is better, describing the two players as the best there is

Fernando Gago: I feel comfortable playing with Mascherano
Following La Albiceleste's convincing win over Germany, the new Valencia signing has revealed he's happy playing alongside the Barcelona ace

Barcelona's Iniesta provides voice for animated film Pirates
The Catalan midfielder features in the Spanish dub of the movie, portraying an albino pirate who is obsessed in his quest for the 'Pirate of the Year' award

Joaquin: Malaga squad focused only on football
The 31-year-old winger insists that the players of the financially troubled Primera Division outfit do not concern themselves with what goes on off the pitch

Villas-Boas expecting imminent Modric conclusion
The Croatian has flown to Spain to begin talks with Real Madrid and the 34-year-old confirms that talks between the clubs have 'picked up' recently

Spain's television rights deal unfair, says Sevilla's Trochowski
The German midfielder believes that La Liga's two biggest clubs receive far too much from broadcasting revenue, and tips Barcelona to clinch the league title this season

Liverpool set to beat Arsenal in race to sign Sahin
The Real Madrid midfielder has been deemed surplus to requirements by Jose Mourinho and is set to move to Anfield on a one-year loan deal

Tottenham bid for Soldado rejected by Valencia, confirms striker
Spain striker admits Spurs have had an offer rebuffed by Mauricio Pellegrino's side but is still fully committed to Los Che and admits it's a dream to play for them

Arsenal ready to give green light for £15m Song move to Barcelona
The Spanish giants have agreed to meet the Gunners' valuation of the Cameroon international midfielder after a breakthrough in negotiations between the two clubs

Tottenham's loss is Real Madrid's gain as Modric move draws closer
The 26-year-old midfielder looks set to play a pivotal part in proceedings in Spain as he leaves Andre Villas-Boas behind to link up with Jose Mourinho at the Santiago Bernabeu

I can score as many goals as Messi & Cristiano Ronaldo, claims Falcao
The Colombian striker is full of expectation and wants to improve on his individual performance last term by posing a bigger threat to both Liga stars for the Pichichi trophy

Marcelo resumes Real Madrid training
The left-back missed the Spanish champions' pre-season tour of the USA because of his obligations with Brazil's Under-23 team in London, but is back in his club side's reckoning

Former Bilbao president: Llorente's decision hurts
Jose Maria Arrate criticises the Spain international striker after he made it clear he had no intention of renewing his contract with the Basque club

Martinez set for record-breaking move to Bayern Munich
The Athletic Bilbao midfielder has long been linked with a move away from San Mames, and will become the most expensive signing in the history of the Bundesliga.

Tottenham midfielder Modric to fly to Spain to complete Real Madrid move
A breakthrough has finally been reached as the Liga champions aim to complete a £30 million deal for Spurs' wantaway midfielder

Messi: There's no Cristiano Ronaldo rivalry
The Argentine international says the duel with his Real Madrid counterpart is made up by the media, though he hopes a team-mate wins the Ballon d'Or

Messi has to be Argentina's leader because he is the best, claims Mascherano
The Barca midfielder has tipped his compatriot to fire Alejandro Sabella's men to victory, beginning with their friendly against Germany on Wednesday

Iniesta: No Barcelona-Real Madrid rivalry in Spain squad
The talented midfielder says there are no issues between players in the national team, and is pleased to have made the final three to be recognised as Uefa's 'Best Player'

Agger: Barcelona are the only club that would tempt me
The Liverpool defender has revealed if the Spanish giants became interested in his services he would find it hard to resist but considers it an honour to play for the Reds

Song is unlike any other player, says Clemente
The former Cameroon coach has praised the powerful midfielder, but is having doubts about the 24-year-old's defensive abilities amid speculation linking the player with Barcelona

Ribery & Benzema to stand trial over underage prostitute allegations
The French footballers could be formally charged with paying for sex with Zahia Dehar, an investigating magistrate has confirmed this week

lker Casillas · Aug 21, 2012

Song: Everybody knows Barcelona are the best team in the world
The Cameroon international is ecstatic about his transfer to the Primera Division, and is pleased to be reunited with former team-mate Cesc Fabregas

Guardiola refuses to compare Real Madrid & Barcelona after first La Liga fixtures
The former Blaugrana coach, who is currently taking a sabbatical year in the United States, believes that only after 10 games will the title race take shape in the Primera Division

Llorente: I am happy to play for Athletic Bilbao
The Spain striker revealed that he is still enjoying his time in the Basque country, despite not renewing his contract with the San Mames outfit and being linked with a move away

Espanyol target Napoli forward Eduardo Vargas - report
Unhappy at his lack of playing time in Italy, the Chilean may leave for Spain in a bid to find regular action, and the Catalan club are thought to be keen on a temporary switch

Real Madrid defender Pepe released from hospital following head collision
The controversial Blancos stopper has been discharged from medical care following overnight checks on a head injury sustained during Sunday's draw with Valencia

David Villa praises Barcelona fans after goalscoring return from injury
The striker acknowledged the club's supporters on the social networking site following his long-anticipated return to competitive action against Real Sociedad on Sunday

Villa's return highlight of win over Sociedad, says Pedro
The versatile attacker was pleased to see his team-mate back in action after a lengthy lay-off, and was equally satisfied with Barca's performance

Porto star James Rodriguez dreams of Spain move
The gifted attacking midfielder has set his sights on a move to the Spanish top flight at some point, while admiring Colombia legend Carlos Valderrama

Casillas: Madrid go to Barcelona to win
The Spain international is full of ambition ahead of this week's Spanish Supercopa first leg, and feels Madrid deserved to beat Valencia at the weekend

Point to prove: Vilanova's Barcelona make a statement as Real Madrid misfire on La Liga's opening weekend
The Catalans' new coach can be happy with his first fixture after a 5-1 thrashing of Real Sociedad gives them the edge on Jose Mourinho's men, held to a 1-1 draw by Valencia

Messi: Barcelona want to win it all
The prolific attacker was satisfied with his side's start to the new season, and wants success in every competition the Catalans compete in

'We're not in the best shape physically' - Ronaldo reacts to Madrid draw
The 27-year-old forward admitted that Los Blancos squad are not yet at the peak of their powers, but will strive to improve in the coming weeks

Real Madrid's Pepe in hospital following Casillas collision
The Portuguese centre-back will remain under observation for the next 24-hours, after a clash of heads forced him from the field in Real's La Liga opener

'Song will improve Barcelona,' says former La Liga midfielder Daniel Kome
The 32-year-old, who spent time at Getafe, Mallorca and Valladolid, lavished praise upon the midfielder's attributes and insisted that he can be a success with the Catalan giants

Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes and former Valencia defender Asier del Horno face charges of fraud
The La Liga duo have been caught up in a criminal investigation into driving yachts along the Spanish coast

Mourinho: Matching Fergie is mission impossible
The 49-year-old says that replicating in Spain what the veteran Scotsman has achieved in the Premier League is highly improbable

Galatasaray have the power to buy Kaka, claims club chairman
The Turkish supremo has revealed his side are in a financial position to bring in the Brazilian, but admitted the playmaker's personal goals will likely scupper a move

Mourinho: Real Madrid were the best team in Europe last season
The Portuguese boss has lauded his side's strength, and believes they are ready to fight for major honours

Malaga boss Pellegrini: We were lucky against Celta Vigo
The former Real Madrid boss has admitted his side were fortunate to win, but drew positives from the narrow result

Manchester City once mistakenly bid for Messi, reveals new book
The Premier League champions have been big spenders in recent years, but once accidentally submitted an offer for the Barcelona star after a communication error with their owners

Vilanova aiming to win it all at Barcelona
The former assistant manager feels up to the challenge of delivering on the club's heritage, and says new tactical systems might help them achieve their objectives

Falcao: I am very happy at Atletico Madrid
The double Europa League winner says he is satisfied at the capital outfit, and is relishing hitting new heights during the season ahead

Del Bosque confident Bayern Munich will have 'plenty of fun' with Martinez
The Basque star appears set to complete a move to Die Roten, prompting his national team boss to predict a bright future for him

Ozil targets Champions League success with Real Madrid
The Germany international has spoken about his pride at becoming a regular for Los Blancos, and revealed his desire to lift the most coveted trophy in European football

Canales: Not everything was bad for me at Real Madrid
The Spain Under-21 international took his time to praise his former club, and made clear that there are no hard feelings between him and the Spanish capital side

Barcelona will play at lunchtime this season, says Mediapro president Roures
Tito Vilanova's team will have to settle for some midday fixtures, as the company aims to maximise their profits from the markets in Asia and the Middle East

Llorente's agent hints at Juventus move
The striker is continually being linked with a move to the Serie A giants, and his representative has now confirmed a transfer is an option

Official: Simao joins Espanyol
The former Portugal international has completed his move back to the Spanish top flight after he had opted to leave Besiktas

Barcelona still the team to beat - Dani Alves
The Brazilian international is convinced that Barca are still the best team in world football despite last season's disappointing La Liga and Champions League failures

Hugo Sanchez: Guardado is perfect for Valencia
The legendary Mexican striker is confident that his fellow countryman will blossom for Los Che in their upcoming La Liga campaign

Barcelona and Real Madrid to be aired in Spain on Pay TV only
El Clasico giants' matches will not be shown on free-to-air TV in Spain next season as financial implications continue to dominate scheduling of La Liga fixtures

Mascherano: No need to compare Maradona and Messi
In the wake of Argentina's friendly defeat to Germany the former River Plate player spoke of how he thinks likening the Blaugrana forward to the 1986 World Cup winner is pointless

lker Casillas · Aug 21, 2012

Mourinho: Matching Fergie is mission impossible

The 49-year-old says that replicating in Spain what the veteran Scotsman has achieved in the Premier League is highly improbable

Aug 19, 2012 3:10:00 PM

By Mohammed Ali

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho says that following the success of Sir Alex Ferguson with the La Liga champions would be very difficult.

The veteran Scot has been in charge of the Red Devils for over 25 years, however, the Portuguese does not believe that he will match his counterpart's record while at the Spanish capital.

Asked about his personal aspirations, the Portuguese said that he was focused on the next four years at the Santiago Bernabeu.

"Copying Ferguson is difficult. Mission impossible. That is because I won't be here for 79 years. I signed here for four years, and if we signed it, we signed it to do so," he explained toAS.

"My intention is to keep winning and keep making a fantastic team with its own identity and, in my opinion, [fantastic] football."

The Blancos boss also refused to be drawn on big rivals Barcelona due to his focus on his side's Liga opener against Valencia on Sunday.

"I have no interest in talking about a rival that is not Valencia. They had a good season, but what Madrid did was extraordinary. Emery did a good job."

Real Madrid's opening La Liga game is against Valencia on Sunday night, and kicks off at 19:00CET.

lker Casillas · Aug 21, 2012

lker Casillas · Aug 24, 2012

Kaka, Sahin & Carvalho omitted from Real Madrid squad to face Barcelona in Supercopa
The trio will miss out on the Clasico, intensifying speculation about their future with the Spanish champions, as clubs from the Premier League reportedly wait in the wings

Disallowed Soldado goal against Real Madrid should have stood, says Pereira
Los Che's forward was denied a goal in the Liga clash between the two sides after he was adjudged to be offside, a decision that has even ruffled feathers in Portugal

Arsenal Sahin switch on hold as Wenger considers option of permanent deal
The Gunners are still in the driving seat to capture the midfielder amid reports in Spain that the midfielder's agent has held fresh talks with Liverpool

Zidane better than Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, says Cazorla
The Spain international has nothing but praise for the former Juve and Madrid playmaker, and feels honoured to have played against him

Vilanova & Barcelona desperate to beat Real Madrid & prove they can win without Guardiola
Tito's team got off to a flier with a 5-1 win over Real Sociedad at the weekend but know they must defeat Mourinho's men in the Spanish Supercopa to dispel doubts over his tenure

Milla: Madrid are favourites to win Supercopa
The 46-year-old, who started his playing career at the Catalans before joining the Blancos, favours the champions to win, while praising David Villa following his comeback

'The Only One' he hasn't won: Mourinho seeks Supercopa to complete a Spanish set
The Portuguese has racked up 19 titles at four different clubs, but missed out on the Spanish Supercopa last season in the defeat to Barcelona. Now he has another chance to win it

Vilanova: This Barcelona will be remembered
The Catalans' new head coach has nothing but praise for the team that has dominated Spanish and European football in recent years

Arda happy at Atletico Madrid, amid Galatasaray rumours
The 25-year-old winger has dismissed talk that he could return to his boyhood club just 12 months after his €12 million move to Los Rojiblancos

Vilanova hungry for Supercopa glory ahead of Real Madrid clash
Barcelona manager Tito Vilanova insists he will treat the trophy with respect, after Jose Mourinho claimed it was low down on his list of priorities this season

Modric transfer to Real Madrid imminent, claims Mamic
The Dinamo Zagreb director of football has insisted that the Croatian playmaker's protracted transfer from Tottenham to the La Liga giants is 'almost done'

Cruyff: Mourinho was nothing as a footballer
The legendary player launched a scathing attack on the Portuguese, and took a swipe at Sandro Rosell, before expressing his doubt over Tito Vilanova's abilities

I am not the reason why Llorente and Martinez want to leave, says Bielsa
The trainer has refuted claims that there are issues between him and his two star players, and insisted that he is on good terms with the club's president

Barcelona's Villa slapped with fine for T-shirt message in rout of Real Sociedad
The authorities have decided to punish the attacker for exposing a text in which he thanks his family for their support during his long spell on the sidelines

Mourinho backs Sahin for Premier League switch but remains coy on Carvalho move to QPR
The Real Madrid boss has insisted he is not concerned over the Turkish midfielder's eventual destination but has thrown doubt on potential exits for the experienced pairing

Barcelona and Real Madrid are given preferential schedule, says Malaga's Pellegrini
The Chilean trainer has complained about the timing of his side's matches, stating that Spain's other representatives in the Champions League are given precedence

Hoeness: Bilbao are doing everything possible to stop Martinez from joining Bayern
The club official expressed his frustration with the Spanish club's persistent lack of willingness to cooperate in negotiations over a move for the young midfielder

Mourinho: I would trade Supercopa for La Liga title
The Portuguese trainer has played down Thursday night's clash with the Blaugrana, insisting that it is of little significance and will hardly have any influence on the season

Zubizarreta refuses to rule out Barcelona departures
The Catalans could say farewell to several players before the transfer window shuts, while they have no intention of making any more signings, according to the sporting director

Modric would be a good choice for Real Madrid, says Rakitic
The Croatian midfielder feels his compatriot will prove to be an excellent option for the Liga champions if, as expected, his move from Tottenham goes ahead this summer

Arsenal did not want to sell Song, says Barcelona vice-president
The Primera Division giants have stressed that signing the midfielder was by no means an easy feat, despite the fact that the transfer materialised relatively quickly

Demichelis: Malaga can still achieve something
The former Bayern Munich defender is adamant that his side's campaign will be considered a success if they qualify for the Champions League group stages

Sammer: Javi Martinez transfer nowhere near being completed
The Bayern Munich director has confirmed that his side's move for the Spain international has stalled as they await a reply from Athletic Bilbao

Spalletti confirms Zenit interest in Afellay
The Italian coach has announced that he is hoping to bring the Dutch winger to the Russian Premier League as he looks to deliver a third successive domestic title

Real Madrid website posts Modric profile
The Spanish champions have blamed a hacker for the gaffe, which listed the Tottenham Hotspur midfielder as a member of Jose Mourinho's squad

Getafe will sell before buying, claims sporting director
Toni Munoz believes that his club are well-staffed with the current crop of talent at Coliseum Alfonso Perez, and warned that further acquisitions depend on exits

Llorente agent confirms English interest
Juventus had been confident of landing the Spain international, but his representative has now revealed that two Premier League outfits are also chasing his client

Bayern still want Javi Martinez, says Rummenigge
The Bavarian club's CEO has not given up hope of signing the in-demand Spaniard from Athletic Bilbao, but believes the deal is being deliberately stifled by the Basque side

It is impossible to argue with somebody like Abidal, says Mascherano
The pair looked to have quarreled during the Blaugrana's first-team presentation on Monday, but the Argentine was quick to play down the speculation, branding the incident a joke

I will be in perfect form very soon, warns Pepe after being ruled out of Supercopa
The controversial defender did not sustain any serious damage in Sunday's draw against Valencia, but will sit out Thursday's game with Barcelona as a precautionary measure

'I am proud to be the small kid who made the breakthrough at La Masia' - Jordi Alba keen to prove his worth to Barcelona
The newly-signed defender is honoured to have been involved in the world-famous youth academy, and vowed to give his all upon returning to "the best club in the world"

lker Casillas · Aug 24, 2012

After least season's eye-gouging, Mourinho and Vilanova square up again in Super Cup

By SPORTSMAIL REPORTERPUBLISHED: 10:34 GMT, 23 August 2012 | UPDATED: 10:47 GMT, 23 August 2012

Real Madrid and Barcelona meet in the season's first El Clasico on Thursday in the first leg of the Spanish Super Cup. Bragging rights will be up for grabs after the capital club won the La Liga title for the first time since 2008 while Barca had to settle for the Copa del Rey.

But the match will also see Madrid manager Jose Mourinho come face to face with his opposite number Tito Vilanova who he poked in the eye in last year's corresponding fixture.

Collision course: Jose Mourinho (left) and Tito Vilanova will meet for the fist time since their clash last year

Barcelona won 5-4 on aggregate but the second leg will be remembered for the unsavoury post-match violence.After Mourinho lashed out at Pep Guardiola's assistant, Vilanova retaliated by slapping the Portuguese. Both were handed bans which were later revoked.Vilanova took charge of the Catalan club when Guardiola stepped down this summer but Mourinho has played down last season's confrontation.

'This isn't about Pep or Tito, this is about [playing] Barca and that's how we're approaching it,' he said.'I think it's a game that will have little effect [on the season]. If I could choose, I'd choose what happened last year where we lost the Super Cup and won the league.

'If losing is a motivation for winning the league, I'd sign off on it now.'It's a team with practically all the same players from last season and their style, which could change because Vilanova will have to have some way of differentiating himself. Barcelona is the same team that we've seen in recent years, a quality team with great players. It doesn't seem very different to me from last season's team'.

In training: Real Madrid and Barcelona prepare for the first leg of their Super Cup clash

Barcelona began their bid to wrestle back the La Liga title with a comprehensive 5-1 win over Real Sociedad while Real struggled to a 1-1 draw with Valencia. Vilanova insists he does not feel the pressure of succeeding Guardiola, who led Barca to 14 trophies under his stewardship. 'I don't have anything riding on the result of this game. I like to experience this profession calmly. I am sorry, but there are more important things in my life,' he said.

Contrasting fortunes: Barcelona thrashed Real Sociedad (above) but Real Madrid could only draw with Valencia

'I know it is important, but I couldn't do my job properly if I was worrying whether the world would fall on top of me if we lost, 'Neither team is at its optimum level at present. I don't see much of a difference between them at present.'Barcelona could hand a debut to new signing Alex Song who joined from Arsenal for £15million.

New boy: Alex Song could make his Barcelona debut after signing from Arsenal

'We will decide tomorrow [Thursday],' Vilanova added. 'He has only been here a short time. He is a player with great ability, but we shall see. I think he will adapt and fit in very quickly.'The return leg will be played at the Bernabeu on August 29.

lker Casillas · Aug 24, 2012

Zubizarreta: Valdes shouldn't be lambasted for Supercopa error
Barcelona's sporting director and former Spanish goalkeeper plays down howler by Blaugrana stopper in Supercopa victory over Real Madrid

Marcelo: Supercopa is far from over
The Brazilian left-back is optimistic that Real Madrid can turn the cup tie around at the Bernabeu and was impressed by his side's showing against Barcelona

Laudrup hopeful over swoop for Pablo Hernandez and Ki Sung-Yeung
The Welsh side are close to sealing a move for the South Korea international and are still in negotiations with La Liga outfit Valencia over the Spanish attacker

Rodgers hopeful of Liverpool deal for Sahin
The Northern Irishman has revealed that a loan move for the Turkish midfielder is close to completion, despite the presence of competition from Arsenal for his signature

'I want to win it all' - Song targets trophy haul with Barcelona
The Blaugrana's newest recruit is determined to become a success at the Camp Nou and is hungry for silverware

Torres will learn from his mistake, says Atletico boss Simeone
The Argentine trainer believes that a lesson in caution will be learned after the young prospect was snapped shopping in the club store of adversaries Real Madrid

lker Casillas · Aug 24, 2012

Barcelona 3 Real Madrid 2: Xavi and Messi rule as Vilanova's men earn slim advantage

By SPORTSMAIL REPORTER PUBLISHED: 23:03 GMT, 23 August 2012 | UPDATED: 23:26 GMT, 23 August 2012

Barcelona came from behind to take a slender lead from the first leg of the Spanish Supercopa at the Nou Camp. Cristiano Ronaldo headed Real into the lead against the run of play 10 minutes into the second half from Mesut Ozil's corner, but Barcelona responded as Pedro showed great poise to slot home a minute later.

Three's the trick: Xavi celebrates scoring Barcelona's third goal

Boom: Cristiano Ronaldo heads in the first goal

MATCH FACTS

Barcelona: Valdes; Alves, Pique, Mascherano, Adriano; Busquets, Xavi (Fabregas 83), Iniesta; Sanchez (Tello 72), Messi, Pedro (Alba 88).

Substitutes: Pinto, Puyol, Roberto, Villa

Goals: Pedro 56, Messi 70 (pen), Xavi 77

Real Madrid: Casillas; Arbeloa, Albiol, Ramos, Coentrao; Khedira, Alonso; Callejon (Di Maria 66), Ozil (Marcelo 82), Ronaldo; Benzema (Higuain 61).

Substitutes: Adan, Jesus, Varane, Nacho, Morata, Diarra, Granero

Goals: Ronaldo 55, Di Maria 85

The action then raced from end to end and it was the hosts who forged ahead 20 minutes from time when Lionel Messi scored from the penalty spot after Sergio Ramos had brought down Andres Iniesta.Then a terrific jinking run from Iniesta freed Xavi to stroke home Barcelona's third goal seven minutes later. However, the visitors were gifted a way back into the tie five minutes from time when Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes tried to dribble around Angel Di Maria and only succeeded in gifting the Argentinian an open goal. Barcelona were deserving of the victory but may rue not taking full advantage after dominating for large spells against a Real side who failed to find the cohesion that had seen them go unbeaten in three of their last four trips to the Nou Camp.

Magic: Lionel Messi celebrates as Barca picked up a slim win

Easy does it: Angel di Maria hits back for Madrid

Messi had the first real chance of the game when a typically sharp Barcelona passing exchange freed Dani Alves down the right and his cut-back found the Argentinian on the edge of the penalty area, but his left-footed drive flew just off target. The world player of the year then had an even better opportunity from similar range as he skipped past Alvaro Arbeloa but this time pulled his shot wide of the other upright. Real were struggling to manage any prolonged possession and were relieved to see referee Carlos Clos Gomez wave away appeals for a penalty when Alexis Sanchez tumbled in the box under pressure from Ramos.

Spin: Ronaldo wheels away in celebration

Duo: Xavi (centre) and Iniesta (right) pulled the strings as usual

However, for all their dominance Barcelona only had another two long-range efforts on goal as Pedro's drive was tipped over by Iker Casillas before Xavi shot just over from similar range. And it was the visitors who took the lead 10 minutes into the second period as Ozil's corner was bulleted in by Ronaldo for his fourth goal in his last four away games against Barcelona. The lead lasted less than a minute as a wonderful ball over the top from Javier Mascherano found Pedro in behind Fabio Coentrao and the Spanish international slotted past Casillas.

On the move: Ronaldo gets a pass away after escaping the attentions of Javier Mascherano (right) and Adriano

The game then became increasingly stretched as both sides tired slightly from playing in the still searing heat, despite the late kick-off time, and the visitors' luck with Gomez eventually ran out as Iniesta was brought down inside the area by Ramos and Messi stepped up to thunder home the penalty. Moments later Iniesta showed incredible speed of foot to dance past three Real challenges and slip a pass through for Xavi to sidefoot past Casillas. Messi then had a great chance to all but seal the trophy but he was denied from point-blank range by Casillas, and within seconds the complexion of the tie had completely changed as Valdes' error allowed Di Maria to give Madrid a lifeline heading into the return at the Bernabeu next Wednesday.

Shifty: Messi tries to turn Sami Khadira during the Super Cup first leg at Camp Nou

The shake: Jose Mourinho and Francesc 'Tito' Vilanova prior to the match. Mourinho was punished after apparently gouging Vilanova's eye during a La Liga match last season

No you don't: Ronaldo tries to get the better of Barcelona defender Gerard Pique during the Spanish season curtain-raiser

Clash: Messi tussles with Fabio Coentrao on the turf

lker Casillas · Aug 24, 2012

Supercopa tie still 'completely open', stresses Vilanova

The Barcelona coach was impressed with his team's 3-2 victory over Real Madrid but is aware that his players will have to finish the task at the Santiago Bernabeu

Aug 23, 2012 11:50:00 PM

By Max Bentley

Tito Vilanova tasted success on his Clasico debut as a coach, as Barcelona defeated Real Madrid 3-2 at Camp Nou, but was quick to stress that the Supercopa tie remains finely poised ahead of next week's return at the Bernabeu.

The former assistant to Pep Guardiola was content to have emerged victorious against Jose Mourinho but is aware that there is a long way to go before his side can collect the trophy.

Speaking to the media post-match, he stated: "I think we played a good game, we had control most of the time, against Madrid you can't expect not to give away chances.

"Of course, this result isn't decisive, for either of the teams. The tie is still completely open, certainly against a team like Madrid. They have talented players, they can score from few chances."

The 42-year-old also refused to blame Victor Valdes after Angel Di Maria capitalised on his goalkeeping error to bring Real Madrid back into the tie in the closing stages.

He added: "He has given us a lot the past years, he should continue.

"4-1 was close, it became 3-2, that's football, it can happen. But I stick with how we played. Now, off to the Bernabeu."

Barcelona visit Osasuna this Sunday in La Liga before the second leg of the Supercopa at the Santiago Bernabeu next Wednesday evening.

lker Casillas · Aug 24, 2012

lker Casillas · Aug 25, 2012

AC Milan CEO Galliani to travel to Madrid for Kaka talks
The 2011 Serie A champions are desperate to lure the attacking midfielder back to San Siro, and are set to launch a final attempt to get their man in the upcoming days

Chelsea boss Di Matteo inists David Luiz is not for sale amid Barcelona rumours
The coach believes the Brazilian defender is essential to the club’s future, while also reiterating that Manchester United & Manchester City are the teams to beat this year

Xavi: I want to carry on being important for Barcelona
The midfield maestro is looking forward to playing a key role for the Camp Nou side for another season, and has no intention of retiring from international football

Manchester City outcast Santa Cruz willing to sacrifice €8m so he can re-join Betis
The Paraguayan is prepared to reject big-money offers from China and Dubai so he can return to the Spanish club where he spent last season on loan

Pepe resumes Real Madrid training
The powerful defender spent the past few days on the sidelines due to a head injury, but is raring to go again ahead of this weekend's Primera Division game

Liverpool confirm Sahin loan agreement
The 23-year-old Turkish international midfielder will join Brendan Rodgers' side on a season-long loan deal from Real Madrid, subject to passing a medical

'I didn't come to replace Aguero or Forlan, but to make my own mark' - Radamel Falcao
The Colombian striker discussed Atletico Madrid, his adaptation to Europe with Porto and his early beginnings at River Plate in an in-depth interview with Goal.com

Pique: I had to take a lot of rubbish last season
The centre-back believes previous criticism was harsh, and is eager to show what he can do this time around, while voicing his satisfaction with the win over Real Madrid

Xavi believes Barcelona are in a strong position to overcome Real Madrid in Super Copa return
The Blaugrana overcame Mourinho's side 3-2, recovering from a goal down at Camp Nou, leaving the Catalan giants favourites to win the first trophy of the season

Iniesta calls for focus in second leg after gaining Supercopa advantage
The Spanish midfielder was key to helping Tito Vilanova register a maiden Clasico victory, but stressed the importance of the match at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday

Real Madrid will do everything to win Supercopa, vows Di Maria after Barcelona loss
The Argentine scored a vital goal five minutes from time in the first leg at Camp Nou, and he believes that his side can push the Catalan giants all the way in the return fixture

Abidal resumes individual training as he targets Barcelona return
The Frenchman has made the next step on the road back to full fitness as he has started working out in the gym, and he also thanked the fans for their support

Javi Martinez costs too much for Manchester City, laments Mancini
The Italian coach believes the Basque club are asking for too big a sum for their Spain international, but hinted at winger Scott Sinclair being brought in from Swansea City

Mascherano: Barcelona have to maintain their identity
The versatile Argentine was happy with his side's performance versus Los Blancos, and is determined to finish the job in the second leg

Messi and Ronaldo are better than me, I'm just making a name for myself, says Radamel Falcao
The Atletico Madrid forward spoke to Goal.com in an exclusive interview and revealed he is honoured to be able to share the Primera Division with the world's best players

Casillas: Di Maria's goal changes everything
The experienced goalkeeper feels that the Argentina international's late strike could be crucial in the Blancos' attempts to bring home the trophy

lker Casillas · Aug 25, 2012

'I didn't come to replace Aguero or Forlan, but to make my own mark' - Radamel Falcao

The Colombian striker discussed Atletico Madrid, his adaptation to Europe with Porto and his early beginnings at River Plate in an in-depth interview with Goalcom

Aug 25, 2012 8:00:00 AM

EXCLUSIVE
By Martin del Palacio Langer | Goal.com Spain Chief Editor

Radamel Falcao Garcia is one of the most in-demand players in European football. Ever since his arrival on the continent in 2009-10, the striker has not stopped scoring goals. First with Porto, where he was proclaimed champion of Portugal and won the Europa League, and then with Atletico Madrid, where he went on to claim another continental crown in an exact repeat of the previous campaign.

In total, the Colombian attacker, who made his professional debut with River Plate in Argentina, has scored 65 goals in 85 games since moving to Europe, and is considered by many to be the third best player in La Liga, behind only legendary pair Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

Goalcom spoke to the Colombian striker about his career, his past, present and future, touching on many of the relevant topics in today's game. The result is a fascinating insight into one of the world's finest footballers.

Was the name Falcao chosen because of the Brazilian international from the 1980s?

RF: Yes, my dad was a big fan of Falcao and so, when I was born, he didn't think twice about giving me the name. I am used to people calling me Falcao. My father is also named Radamel, so I like to be identified more by the name Falcao.

What is your first memory of football? Were you one of those kids who always kicks a ball around?

RF: Yes, exactly. From when I got up in the morning I was playing with the ball, for as long as I could.
I tried to sneak away any time I could and play with my friends. I did everything to play football.

You were very young when you went to River Plate, and you hadn't even made your debut in Colombia. What was it like to live far away from home at such a young age?

RF: It's true. I went alone. The first four years I was in a residence at River, where they house players who aren't from Buenos Aires. That's something that helped me mature and grow both in a sporting sense and on a personal level. I lived with [Javier] Mascherano for two years and with several players who became professionals in Argentina.

Why do you think you were able to grow and triumph at River, when other players weren't able to?

RF: I think because of the discipline and commitment I had with myself and with football. That, in a given moment, is the difference between a player who has talent and one who is disciplined, consistent, perseverant.

But then the team fell apart ...

RF: The last years at River were hard, I couldn't enjoy my time as River were crumbling as an institution. Things were not right with the structure of the club itself, not just the football. Then one thing led to another and the team went broke and were relegated. It was hard for me even watching it from afar because I love River and it is more than a football club for me.

There were lots of rumours about a move to Europe, but when you left it wasn't to one of the strongest leagues. What made you decide to join Porto?

RF: There was a time where I felt I had completed a cycle at River and I really wanted to experience Europe. Porto offered me that opportunity and were very interested in me. As I realised when I arrived, it is a very good institution, very structured and very successful, which gives players the chance to grow and really helped me. It was a season that marked my career, how many titles we won and the importance of them. It is a season that I will never forget and neither will the people, the fans of Porto and world and European football.

Many Latin American footballers struggle to adapt to European football, but you were quite the opposite. How did you manage to acclimatise yourself so quickly?

RF: Fortunately, I adapted very quickly to European football. First in Porto and then when I was transferred to the Spanish league, which is the most competitive in the world. I had no problem fitting in the teams, with my team-mates and to understand the system that both clubs used. I have been able to deliver results and be effective for the institutions I have played for. I think Porto gave me everything I needed to showcase my skills, so I just had to focus on giving the team the best of my potential. They put me in the right system and in the right position, they did what they had to do to simplify my efforts and help the team.

Again, you were linked with many clubs, but you ended up joining Atletico, a big club with lots of tradition but one which had gone a long time without winning one of the top titles ...

RF: After very successful years in Porto, I thought it was the right time to make the leap to a major league. I wanted the challenge of coming to Spain and playing in one of the best leagues in the world with the best players. It was a challenge for me. Atletico gave me the chance to come, to try to fight with the bigger teams, to try to reach the Champions League, to win the Europa League again. We managed to do well in Europe but were not good enough in the league. I think, all in all, it was a positive first year.

Could you have joined an even bigger club? Were there offers?

RF: There were some offers, from different parts of Europe. But in the end I chose Atletico because they were the ones that showed me that they wanted me and made a big effort to bring me.

Where does your 'Tiger' nickname originate from and what was it like to pose with one?

RF: They call me the Tiger from my time at River. A team-mate thought it represented my style and started calling me that. It stuck, to the point that last season I had to pose with one. They asked me to touch it, but I couldn't, it was frightening! I caressed a cub though, it was a great experience all in all.

Atletico struggled to perform in the key moments prior to your arrival, but you were fundamental in last season's Europa League success. Do you think you have changed the mentality of the club?

RF: Everywhere I go, I am my own fiercest rival, I push myself to the maximum, set new goals and put pressure on myself to excel. But I also realise that top clubs do not give you much time and you have to deliver immediately.

I imagine it wasn't at all easy to arrive at Atletico in the shadow of Diego Forlan and Sergio Aguero, who both left last summer ...

RF: I knew that Forlan and Aguero were idols here, but I didn't think I was coming to replace them or do what they had done. I just wanted to leave my mark on the institution, help them with goals and help the team improve in relation to the previous season. I always put pressure on myself and that helps bring out the best in me. I knew that if I did the right things that would somehow help the team make things better than how they were when they were here. But I wouldn't think of making the fans forget them because I think they are great players who did so much for the institution.

lker Casillas · Aug 25, 2012

La Liga preview: Real look to respond

24 August 2012

Reigning champions Real Madrid will look to bounce back from their midweek 3-2 Supercopa de Espana defeat to arch rivals Barcelona on Sunday.Jose Mourinho's men travel to Getafe for their second match of the La Liga season still looking for their first win.

Real could only draw 1-1 at home to Valencia while Barca, who are away to Osasuna, picked up all three points with a 5-1 demolition of Real Sociedad.

While the season is still in its infancy, the early two-point gap will be something that Real fans will find unpalatable.

Meanwhile, Barca coach Tito Vilanova has rallied to the cause of goalkeeper Victor Valdes, whose blunder on Thursday enabled Real to score what could be an all-important second goal when the two sides meet again in the second leg on Wednesday.

Lionel Messi's goal from the penalty spot against Real took his tally for the campaign to three goals, following up his brace in the thrashing of Real Sociedad.

Both Getafe and Osasuna are still looking for their first point of the season.

In their opening matches, Getafe went down 2-1 at Sevilla while Osasuna suffered a 2-0 defeat at Deportivo La Coruna.

On Saturday, Real Sociedad will attempt to rebound from their slow start at home to Celta de Vigo.

Real Betis and Rayo Vallecano, who both won their opening fixtures, meet in Seville.

Champions League hopefuls Malaga will take on Mallorca at home, while Espanyol play host to Real Zaragoza.

On Sunday, Deportivo de La Coruna travel to Valencia, and Granada will play Sevilla at home.

Real Valladolid will face Levante on Monday, followed by the clash between Europa League champions Atletico Madrid and Athletic Bilbao in the Spanish capital.

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone is looking forward to the fixture.

"As always, we expect them (Athletic de Bilbao) to be a very competitive team. I know the coaching staff and they don't have any weaknesses," Simeone said.

"They're strong and they work well. As a result, I hope that we can do our best, as we did last season in both the league and the cup.

"Returning to the Calderon will be a pleasure for the players and for everyone else."

lker Casillas · Aug 27, 2012

La Liga wrap: Rayo set winning pace

26 August 2012

Rayo Vallecano maintained their 100 percent record and moved top of the La Liga table with a 2-1 victory at Real Betis on Saturday.Rayo, who edged Granada in their opening match of the season, made it two wins from two against Betis with goals from Piti and Brazilian Leo Baptistao.

The visitors took the lead two minutes into the encounter after Baptistao's cross was tapped home by Piti but Betis hit straight back through Jorge Molina for his third goal of the season.

However, Baptistao scored the match-winner in the 62nd minute, converting a low shot past Betis goalkeeper Fabricio.

Meanwhile, Portuguese striker Helder Postiga struck an 89th minute winner to hand Real Zaragoza a 2-1 win at 10-man Espanyol.

Espanyol hit the front thanks to Alvaro Vasquez on 43 minutes before Apono levelled proceedings from the spot six minutes into the second half after Juan Albin was given his marching orders.

Postiga, who took part in Portugal's Euro 2012 campaign, secured Zaragoza's first win of the campaign in the final minute of normal time.

Elsewhere on Saturday, Imanol Agirretxe netted a brace as Real Sociedad ran out 2-1 winners at home to Celta Vigo.

Newly-promoted Celta broke the deadlock through Enrique De Lucas four minutes into the second half before Agirretxe scored twice in seven minutes to give Sociedad their first win of the season.

And Juanmi scored a 76th-minute equaliser to earn Malaga a point at home to Mallorca at the Estadio La Rosaleda after Israeli striker Tomer Hemed had put Mallorca ahead nine minutes earlier.

lker Casillas · Aug 27, 2012

La Liga wrap: Real slump further behind

27 August 2012

Real Madrid handed La Liga leaders Barcelona a five-point lead after slumping to a 2-1 loss to Getafe on Sunday.

Gonzalo Higuain's opener was cancelled out by Juan Valera in the 53rd minute, before Abdelaziz Barrada gave Getafe all three points with a quarter of an hour to play.

The result leaves Jose Mourinho's men in 16th place with just one point from their opening two games.

Real took a deserved lead through a well-worked move just before the half-hour as Higuain got on the end of Angel di Maria's pass, rounded goalkeeper Moya and finished from a tight angle.

The hosts, outplayed for much of the opening half, came out of the blocks quickly after the break, levelling in the 53rd minute.

Barrada was the provider as he whipped in a cross from the right flank for Valera, who powered a header past Iker Casillas.

The comeback was complete on 75 minutes when substitute Adrian Colunga slid a pass inside to Barrada, who took a touch before slamming the ball past Casillas.

The final insult on a horrible outing for the capital giants came when Fabio Coentrao received a red card while sitting on the bench, following an exchange of words with the officials.

Barcelona escaped from the Estadio El Sadar with a 2-1 victory over Osasuna.

Tito Vilanova's side were second best for much of the game and fell behind in the 17th minute to a goal from Joseba Llorente.

Vilanova was sent to the stands in the 73rd minute for protesting to the linesman, and his side got a controversial equaliser through Lionel Messi and Osasuna captain Patxi Punal was sent off for protesting the goal.

Punal appeared to be obstructed by the referee in the middle but play was allowed to continue and Alexis Sanchez set up Messi for the equaliser.

The Argentine would pop up once again four minutes later to poke home the winner and give the Catalans a win that they scarcely deserved.

Valencia were held to a 3-3 draw at home to newly promoted Deportivo La Coruna.

A Roberto Soldado brace inside 28 minutes put Valencia 2-0 up, before Abel Aguilar responded for Deportivo.

Sofiane Feghouli restored the home side's two-goal advantage, but an Aguilar strike and a Pizzi penalty secure a draw for the visitors.

To make matters worse for Valencia, Ricardo Costa was sent off after picking up a second yellow card for a challenge on Riki which led to the Deportivo penalty.

Granada and Sevilla played out a 1-1 draw after Alvaro Negredo cancelled out Mikel Rico's opener, while Diego Lopez was sent off on 34 minutes.

║║ La Liga Season 2012-13 ║║

Alfrescian (Inf)

Alfrescian (Inf)

Alfrescian (Inf)

Alfrescian (Inf)

Alfrescian (Inf)

Alfrescian (Inf)

Alfrescian (Inf)

Alfrescian (Inf)

Alfrescian (Inf)

Alfrescian (Inf)

Alfrescian (Inf)

Alfrescian (Inf)

Alfrescian (Inf)

Alfrescian (Inf)

Alfrescian (Inf)

Alfrescian (Inf)

Alfrescian (Inf)

Alfrescian (Inf)

Alfrescian (Inf)

Alfrescian (Inf)

Similar threads