As the topflight teams from the European scene shape up and we get one step closer to a fresh season, the pre-season fixtures are getting bigger and bigger. Two giants who have global pedigree as teams from the very top table, Real Madrid and Juventus sized each other up over the weekend in America as part of the ICC.
A final run of fixtures for these heavyweight names the destination of choosing was the enormous FedExField in Maryland. An 82,000 seater stadium for both of these sides to put a showcase stateside, the game went the distance. It was Real Madrid that largely dominated this affair however. The final score setting the standards at 3-1 to Real Madrid, the numbers reflect that scoreline and from shots through to possession it was the mighty Madrid that left this game feeling closer to the full-time pace a fresh season brings.
It was actually Juve who scored the first goal of this game though though the leveller from Gareth Bale turned the game on its head and Real went to work from there on. The Italian's managed to hit the bar with a free-kick late on but it was Real who get the confidence and momentum rolling as they head towards the start of 18/19. Juve have stretched the legs and with a number of players missing, they won't be too disappointed from this result. Knowing the strength that they have to join the party, if anything, the arrival of Ronaldo just comes with even more anticipation.
Big names stealing the show as well as shining stateside, it was a stunner from Gareth Bale that brought the house down. While Ronaldo may have not been playing in this game, having recently switched from one side to the other, it was Bale who reminded the asset that remains at the Bernabeu this season. A half volley that is still rattling, this set the tone for what lies ahead as well as what Bale has in his armoury.
A summer that has followed with pace from where the World Cup left off, club football is back on the scene and the top teams from Europe are just days away from the joys of 18/19. The stage has been set.
Suit up for the season and join the club party here.
