While in Los Angeles, I attended my first ever soccer match. Not just any match, mind you, but I got to see Real Madrid... in the Rose Bowl! They were playing Landon Donovan and the Los Angeles Galaxy in an international friendly.
Real Madrid did not disappoint. The photo above is taken after Donovan scored on a penalty kick just prior to the half to give the Galaxy a 2 - 0 lead.
After halftime, though, Real Madrid inserted their stars. All of them, minus Kaka, who was injured. At that point, the Galaxy didn't stand a chance. It was a little like watching the Yankees playing the Everett Aqua Sox, or the Sonics (sorry, can't let it go) playing Bellevue Community College.
I don't love soccer, but I would pay money to see Real Madrid 100% time the tickets were offered. It was kind of amazing to see, like watching the Magic Johnson era Lakers, or the Steve Nash Suns from four years ago. Their brand of soccer is just so smooth and fun to watch.
Ronaldo and his bright orange cleats were set up right in front of me the entire second half. Watching him is mesmerizing. Sure, he's a douche, but my word, that boy can play. He led Real Madrid to three straight goals and 3 - 2 win over L.A. I was rooting for LA because Landon Donovan and Edson Buddle deserve some love for the Team USA World Cup contributions, but I was not at all disappointed at the outcome.
Am I a soccer fan now? No. But, I'll say this, watching soccer live is a completely different experience than watching it on TV. Soccer and hockey are two sports that are much better live. Whereas, football and basketball are infinitely better on TV. Baseball sort of depends on the weather... and the length of the game (or having my cousin's tickets, natch).
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