ICYMI – the Portugal-Spain Real Madrid edition

Here are the best moments of the Portugal-Spain game, from a madridista’s viewpoint.

On the Portugal side, Cris and Carvalho started, and Pepe came on at the half.  On the Spain side, Iker, Sergio and Xabi started.  Álvaro was subbed in late in the game, and Albiol only got to chill on the bench.

Find the ICYMI for the selección here.

One. We have to start with this image of Iker right after he gave his shorts to one of the ball boys (you can see the shorts clutched in his hand, along with one of the game balls).

Two. Cris and Sergio shared a laugh and a whisper while the two teams were holding the sign supporting the Iberian World Cup bid, and later on, it was the turn of Iker and Cris, while they read some supportive words.  They had a great time reading together.  Doesn’t it look like Cris is serenading Iker in the picture below?

This is teamwork at its best – Iker holding the cue card, and Cris the microphone.

How did Iker end up finishing so much faster than Cristiano?

The smiles they shared before, during and after were adorable!

As the captains of their respective national teams, Iker and Cris also had to do the coin toss and the exchange of federation banners.

And of course, they gave each other a hug after, like the good teammates, captains and friends that they are.

Three. Prior to the game, Cristiano and Pepe were honored, as both reach milestones with their national team.  Cris reached the 75 game landmark, while for Pepe it was 25.

Four. Our two captains, prior to the Spanish national anthem.

Five. Real Madrid (and Portugal) legend Figo was at the game, acting a lot like Cris.  I wonder if he uses the same super gel.  Right before the second half, Luis spotted Iker and went to give him a hug.  Awwww!!

Six. It was a frustrating game for the Spaniards.  If looks could kill….

Seven. Cris was really into this game.

And of course, his unique style shone through, even though he was wearing the same thing as the rest of his teammates.

This time around, the safari boots brought him good luck, as he had a great game.  And of course, we can’t forget about the stegosaurus hair.

Eight. Front and back.™

Pepe.

Xabi.

Cristiano Ronaldo.

Nine. Celebrating 101, with your teacher Pepe: how to celebrate a goal, whether it’s with your club or country.

First, jump on the huddle of your celebrating teammates.  Try and get as high as possible.

Next, face the crowd, and point towards the escudo on your chest.

Thump your chest a few times if you want to add more drama.

Ten. The Xabi Alonso pose section.™

Eleven. Pepe, like he did after the Spain-Portugal World Cup game, hugged his Real Madrid teammates once the final whistle blew.  On Wednesday, it was Álvaro Arbeloa and Iker on the receiving end.

Twelve. After the game, Ricardo Carvalho hitched a ride on the Spanish team’s plane back to Madrid.

As you can see, even when he was disembarking, he was surrounded by his Real Madrid teammates (and an upcoming opponent.

How come Xabi is the only one of the Spaniards pictured here to have changed back into street clothes?

He looks great!

Thirteen. If Cris plays like this, with so much skill and intensity, in one week’s time, we really can win el clásico.