Capítulo 297: Chapter 298
In the early stages of the UEFA Champions League group stage, Real Madrid embarked on a challenging away game against Lyon at the Gerland Stadium on September 14th. Lyon, a dominant force in Ligue 1, has clinched the league title five consecutive times since 2002 but has consistently faced Champions League heartbreak with their best recent showing being a quarterfinal appearance.
The clash between Real Madrid and Lyon was a spectacle of high stakes, with both teams fielding their key players. In an unexpected turn of events, Wang Feng, receiving a pass from Reyes, opened the scoring with a skillful right-footed volley. Shortly thereafter, in the 25th minute, Emerson's break and Wang Feng's contribution set up Raul, who widened Real Madrid's lead.
Anticipating an easy victory, Real Madrid was caught off guard as Lyon, playing on home turf, staged a spirited comeback. Thiago's goal before halftime and Fred's powerful equalizer tested Real Madrid's defensive vulnerabilities. Adding to the challenge, Carlos suffered an ankle sprain, leading to his substitution with Salgado.
Lyon capitalized on the momentum, with Malouda securing a 3-2 lead in the 67th minute. Despite Schuster's tactical adjustments, the Galacticos struggled to regain control. In a crucial moment, Wang Feng rose to the occasion. In the 85th minute, he was fouled by Lyon's Essien during a right-sided breakthrough, earning a free-kick.
Known for his prowess in front-court free kicks, especially when trailing, Wang Feng faced a well-arranged Lyon defense. The fans' boos and Lyon's attempts to disrupt him couldn't deter the Chinese superstar. Wang Feng's free-kick, with a sharp turn in the air, beat the goalkeeper, resulting in a 3-3 draw as the final whistle blew.
After this rollercoaster match, Real Madrid swiftly returned to the Bernabeu to face Real Sociedad in the Serie A's third round. Real Sociedad, an established club in the Basque Country of Spain, faced a determined Galacticos. Schuster, opting for a rotational lineup, witnessed his team trailing 0-2 at halftime.
Restless Bernabeu fans demanded the introduction of Wang Feng and Raul. Schuster heeded their calls, making the substitutions at the start of the second half. The impact was immediate. In the 51st minute, Wang Feng's breakthrough on the right led to a precise volley into the net. Six minutes later, Wang Feng's left-sided play set up Raul for the equalizer.
The fans, initially dejected, were now rejuvenated, chanting the names of Wang Feng and Raul. In the 74th minute, Wang Feng's midfield attack showcased his ball skills and vision, leading to a powerful left-footed shot. Real Madrid reversed the scoreline to 3-2.
Real Sociedad, mentally shattered, abandoned defensive strategies, offering Real Madrid a chance to counterattack. In the dying moments, Salgado's interception and a precise cross-field pass from Wang Feng to Guti initiated a three-on-three frontcourt. Raul capitalized on the opportunity, securing a 4-2 victory.
Post-game, Schuster acknowledged the team's defensive struggles and pledged to address the issue in the upcoming winter transfer window. Despite conceding five goals in two games, he expressed confidence in Wang Feng, stating, "We have the best attacker in the world."
Analyzing Real Madrid's performance, "Marca" highlighted Wang Feng's significant impact, contributing 8 goals and 3 assists in three league games and one Champions League match. However, defensive concerns, particularly Cannavaro's perceived inadequacy, were underscored.
Legendary figure Pachin criticized Cannavaro's role as the defensive core, citing his diminishing speed and responsiveness. The call for a rejuvenated defensive line resonated, emphasizing the need for a young and energetic defense.
As the season unfolded, the focus on Real Madrid's defensive challenges extended beyond the pitch. Barcelona, too, faced their share of struggles. Ronaldinho, after a triumphant Champions League debut, found himself at odds with coach Rijkaard following a 2-2 draw against Racing Santander. Messi's calf injury further compounded Barcelona's concerns.
Rijkaard, sensing the impending challenge posed by Wang Feng, sought to discuss the matter with Ronaldinho. However, the Brazilian, seemingly fatigued and indifferent, expressed a surprising lack of interest in competing with the Chinese superstar.
In La Liga's fourth round, Real Madrid faced Real Betis away. Schuster, deviating from the norm, included Wang Feng in the starting lineup. The decision proved effective, with Wang Feng scoring within five minutes and orchestrating relentless attacks.
Real Madrid secured a 3-1 victory, with Bravo and Garcia adding to the scoreline. Despite Edu's consolation goal for Real Betis, Real Madrid collected three crucial points.
The narrative of Real Madrid's season unfolded with a blend of triumphs and challenges. Offensive brilliance, led by Wang Feng, contrasted with defensive vulnerabilities. As winter approached, the transfer window emerged as a potential solution to fortify the team's defenses for the demanding dual challenge of the Champions League and the league.
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