No problems for Real Madrid in their opening game on Wednesday, the double-defending champions beating APOEL Nicosia 3-0. Ronaldo connected with Bale’s cross to open the scoring early on, and then converted a second half penalty before Sergio Ramos wrap things up on the hour mark. Sevilla meanwhile rounded off a positive first week for La Liga teams, the Andalusians drawing 2-2 at Liverpool. Ben Yedder gave the visitors an early lead, and although strikes by Firmino and Salah turned the scoreline around by the break, Joaquín Correa made it all square again with twenty minutes to go. (13.09.17)
A good start for Spain’s sides in the opening day of the Champions League, Barcelona beating Juventus 3-0, and Atlético Madrid drawing 0-0 at Roma. Barcelona were knocked out of the competition by the Italian champions last season, but Messi combined with Luis Suárez to give them the lead on the stroke of half time, and after the restart Rakitic and Messi added two more. Atlético meanwhile came away from the Italian capital with a more than respectable draw, although they will rue the fact that they failed to convert several chances, Saúl in particular hitting the upright with the game in injury time. (12.09.17)