It was business as usual for Real Madrid in their first preseason friendly of the season. 'Los Blancos' faced English Championship side AFC Bournemouth in what locals described as "a match we will never forget. The occassion was massive."
Carlo Ancelotti named a very strong starting 11 which included: Diego Lopez, Dani Carvajal, Nacho, Pepe, Fabio Coentrao, Luka Modric, Sami Khedira, Cristiano Ronaldo, Isco, Mesut Ozil & Karim Benzema. New signings Isco & Carvajal started for the Spanish giants and wanted to impress their coaching staff - and boy did they do that. Carvajal had a phenomenal match at the right-back position and was very solid. Isco was superb in the midfield, creative as always and clicking on all cylinders. The combination between Cristiano, Isco, & Özil was very pleasing to watch, and though premature to think so, the chemistry seemed to be already there.
But the show belonged to Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese superstar began on fire, showing everyone that he doesn't know the meaning of "preseason friendly." He put on a show for the crowd with his dazzling stepovers and flicks that showcased why he's a future legend in world football. He scored a dipping freekick with such ease and it became evident to everyone in the stadium - the beast was back. Cristiano later capitalized on a defensive error to go around the goalkeeper and finish with ease. 2 goals in 45 minutes was a job well done for the Portuguese superstar as Carlo Ancelotti changed the entire side in the 2nd half - except for Dani Carvajal and Nacho. New signings Illarramendi and Casemiro (who scored Madrid's 6th goal) came on and inspired a 3 goal 2nd half en route to a 6-0 thrashing.
This new look Madrid looked inspiring, and though there still needs to be some sharpening up, the future looks bright. With the guidance of Carlo Ancelotti and Zinedine Zidane, who knows what this side can accomplish.
Twitter: @WeAreMadrid10
