Picked Up a Goal

Barcelona's El Prat Stadium, the evening of September 12.

In the second round of La Liga, Real Madrid visited Espanyol.

Although Yang Yang had played only one match for the National Team, Benitez still placed him on the bench for this game.

Kaka's groin injury had not fully healed, and he was still undergoing intensive training. The club had therefore communicated with the Brazil National Team and asked the Brazilian superstar to remain in Madrid for rehabilitation training. As a result, he earned a starting spot in this match.

Xabi Alonso and Lass Diarra formed the Double Defensive Midfielders, while Guti and Robben occupied the two wings. Higuaín led the attack. Ibrahimovic, having played two full matches in succession for the National Team, was also placed on the bench for this round.

In defense, Vermaelen and Metzelder made their first starts of the season. Maxwell and Arbeloa took charge of the two flanks, while Casillas remained in goal.

Even at Real Madrid, Benitez continued to uphold the tradition he had established during his time at Liverpool: determined rotation.

His purpose was not to underestimate Espanyol, but to prepare for the Champions League away match coming in midweek.

Although Zurich was not a strong opponent and Real Madrid should have little trouble defeating them away from home, appropriate rotation would still help Real Madrid maintain its ability to fight on multiple fronts. It could also boost the morale of the players on the bench.

From the very beginning, Real Madrid found the match somewhat difficult.

Lass Diarra had never played alongside Xabi Alonso before, and the two were still unfamiliar with each other. They lacked the understanding he had with Mascherano. On top of that, Espanyol pressed fiercely, leaving Real Madrid somewhat passive on the field.

Kaka and Robben were