The time has come for a long-awaited match. On Monday night, before a packed house at The Home Depot Center, the Los Angeles Galaxy will meet Real Madrid.
The expectations are huge. The Galaxy, the team with the most MLS victories in league history, are going to play against a team composed by world-class players such as Zinedine Zidane, Michael Owen, Ronaldo, Roberto Carlos, David Beckham, Luis Figo and Raul. It is a good chance for the Galaxy to show the soccer world where MLS stands and where it is going.
An honor
"It would be an honor to play against the team with the most victories in MLS history. We know it is the most important team in the United States, and there is nothing better for them than to play against the best team from Europe, Real Madrid," said forward Michael Owen, who ensured a well-played match on Monday.
"We are not galacticos or something else. We are just 11 men with the same qualities and imperfections like any other human being. We are very serious about playing against the Galaxy," said defender Michel Salgado.
Real Madrid tested the field at The Home Depot Center on Sunday. The reserves played while the starters jogged around after a long day full of interviews and appointments.
"I am 'death', I cannot talk right now," said an exhausted Roberto Carlos when approached.
An important match
"After this, we are traveling to Asia. It is a long way to go, but these games are important for us because they have a little bit of everything," said goalkeeper Iker Casillas.
It will be the first match between Real Madrid and an MLS team. On Saturday, Real Madrid defeated Mexican power CD Guadalajara 3-1 at Soldier Field in Chicago.
Rene Romano is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
