Wednesday, August 9

Real Madrid defeat Man U 2-1 to win UEFA Super Cup (Match re-cap/photos)

Real Madrid football club of Spain is now the confirmed kings of Europe after defeating Manchester United football club of England 2-1 in a tactically contested match at Philip II Arena, Skopje, Macedonia.

Real Madrid who had an average pre-season came into the game as favorites, despite transfer speculation surrounding star forwards Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo, while Man U had a good pre-season preparation with new signings Victor Lindelof, Nemanja Matic and Romeu Lukaku.

In the beginning of the first half, there as too much pressure coming from Marcelo and Carvajal down the flanks, with Man U's 3-man/wing-backs defensive structure letting them down at times.

Real Madrid, without Cristiano Ronaldo, scored in the 23rd minute after Casemiro forced in a wonderful cross from Carvajal.

United had some good moments in the first half, but always lacked the final touch. At the beginning of the second half, Lingard- silent in the first half, was substituted for Marcos Rashford, and immediately the Mancunian brought in life into Manchester United's attack.

Isco, doubled Real Madrid's lead minutes after, after good inter-play with Man U target, Gareth Bale, slotting the ball skillfully into the net.

Man U coach, Jose Mourinho reacted immediately, replacing Ander Herrera with Marouane Fellaini- which paid off immediately as Romelu Lukaku in the 62nd minute slotted in a rebound after missing a very wonderful chance earlier on.

Man U former player and fan favorite, Cristiano Ronaldo who had just come back from holiday was introduced in the 83rd minute, to stretch out his muscles.

Man United players huffed and puffed, but there was nothing much they could do, Madrid ran out the deserving winners.

The UEFA Super Cup is an annual clash played between the winner of the UEFA Champions League and the winner of the UEFA Europa League.

Another trophy for Real Madrid. Los Blancos as they are fondly called, are winners of last season's La Liga, Champions League and Club World Cup and now the Super Cup.