After winning 22 consecutive matches, Spanish football club Real Madrid C.F. has yet again proved why it is the best soccer team in the world.
During the 22 matches, Madrid scored 81 goals and conceded only 10. Los Blancos’ impressive streak was ended by Valencia CF in a 2-1 loss. Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo put his team in the lead by burying a penalty kick in the 14th minute. Both of Valencia’s goals occurred in the second half, one coming from a deflected shot and the other from a corner kick.
One of the many Real players performing excellently is Welsh midfielder Gareth Bale. This season, the 25-year-old has six goals and five assists under his belt, and played a key role in helping Los Blancos win the UEFA Champions League by scoring a beautiful header to put Real up in the 110th minute.
An even bigger part of Real Madrid’s continued success must be attributed to forward Ronaldo. The Portuguese international has the most goals in the league at 26, followed far behind by Barcelona striker Lionel Messi, who has scored a modest 16 this season.
Ronaldo, along with teammates Toni Kroos and Sergio Ramos, was placed on the FIFA World XI Team for 2014, which consists of one team made up of the best players worldwide per position.
Ronaldo received his third Ballon d’Or on Jan. 12, earning more votes than competitors Messi and German national team goalkeeper Manuel Neuer combined.
The 29 year old striker, who scored 52 goals in 43 games during 2014, expressed great appreciation at receiving the award for a second year in a row. Ronaldo told BBC sports “it has been an unforgettable year. To win this trophy at the end of it is something incredibly unique.”
Real Madrid will be looking to extend their first place spot in La Liga, an effort that will be lead by the world’s best footballer, Cristiano Ronaldo.