The moment we have all been waiting for, is upon us. The football season officially kicked off on Sunday with Arsenal bashing Manchester City in the Community shield. Now, it is the small matter of the UEFA SUPER CUP where two Spanish teams will lurk horns for the right to hoist the first major trophy of the 2014/15 campaign.
Fresh from having a rotten World Cup tournament, the nation of Spain are back to familiar territory, haven bossed both European club competitions which has resulted in Real Madrid (UCL Champions) facing Sevilla (Europa League winners). The merengues have bolstered their squad since taking everyone apart to finally hold aloft the 10th European trophy after it seemed it was never going to happen. It is no coincidence that was the season Gareth Bale was purchased that 'LA DECIMA' finally became a reality. The Welshman provided plenty and is set to even become deadlier as he's been training for two months now and is looking fitter than ever.
Since enjoying a beautiful and historic night at Eusebio's shrine (ESTADIO DA LUZ-LISBON) three months ago, the blancos have done some shopping in the close season and made a few adjustments. Zinedine Zidane has moved to the B-team to become head coach with his replacement being the great Fernando Hierro. The former Leader of the 'whites' and Spain has joined forces with the club he scored 127 times for and defended with his life. On the field, James Rodriguez, Toni Kroos and Keylor Navas have been brought in after a great World Cup tournament. The Colombian wonderkid was top scorer, Kroos-World Champion and Navas, arguably the safest hands in the competition. They have also let Diego Lopez join AC MILAN and the likes of Kehdira and Di Maria have uncertain futures at the club with the latter being subject of a bidding war between PSG and Manchester United although the french club have since pulled out of the race. However, both are still at the club and may feature tonight.
The Millennium stadium in Cardiff is set to host tonight's game and that means a return home for Gareth Bale. The Welsh forward has been tipped to have a greater impact this term than his senior colleague, Cristiano Ronaldo, thanks to better fitness and stamina. In his club's indifferent pre-season tour, he held his head up high and will be determined to excel in his own backyard. It is a dream come true for the ex-Spurs star. Playing in his hometown and defending the crest of the most successful European club of all time is something that was only a dream until ti all came to reality last year. Now, here's another chance to write history.
Sevilla and Unai Emery had to let go of talismanic playmaker, Ivan Rakitic, The Croat was coveted by Barcelona and he couldn't say no to their advances. Despite Denis Suarez being part of the deal, it goes without saying that the departure of Rakitic is a massive blow. Nevertheless, the firepower upfront can still lead the Andalusians to yet another triumph. The chance to become UEFA SUPER CUP holders for the second time will drive them on tonight. After defeating Benfica (on penalties) in the Europa League final in May, they put themselves in this enviable position to start the season as possible double European Champions.
Whatever happens today, Spain will be delighted that at least one of its teams will be crowned Champions of the super cup
Ohireime P Eboreime
@ohiskaka1990
