Tottenham 0 - 1 Real Madrid 13/4/11
The second leg of the Champions League semi-final and Tottenham had a monumental task. Score 4 without conceding just to take the game to extra time. The Spurs manager recognised this in saying 'it will need a miracle, but miracles do happen.'
An early goal was crucial for Spurs, but trying to hold off Ronaldo and co at the same time was not easy. They did have attacks and penalty appeals, with Bale being the first to go over in the box - but perhaps all too readily.
Bale was amazing once again, showing blistering face and really putting the world-class Ramos under pressure - causing him to put a Knee into Bale's side as they jumped for a ball. Bale had the beating of every Madrid defender on the pitch and they knew it, Khedira was often found doubling up with Ramos on one of Bales runs.
Modric also had a penalty appeal, and if Bale hadn't thrown doubt into the Referees mind perhaps it would have been given, Albiol the culprit this time.
Half-time and the score was 0-0, leaving Tottenham just a half to get the 4 goals. Then that boy Ronaldo pops up, with a long range fierce and swaying strike, it bounced from Gomes' hands and into the net. Not as easy a shot to save at looked at first, but still this spelled doom for Tottenham, six goals required not to go out after 90 minutes.
Mourinho noted at the end he needed to play a strong squad to finish the tie, and did so. Tottenham can be very happy with their first entree into the Champions League and are not fighting for a spot there again. Bale has lit up the competition and we can expect bids for him in the summer, from both Real and Barcelona.
