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The Copa Del Rey final was a memorable night for Real Madrid as they clinched their first title of the season by defeating FC Barcelona 2-1. But for a certain individual, it was one of the most defining moments of his career.
Gareth Bale scored the winning goal for Los Blancos and included himself among the illustrious individuals who have contributed to the club’s glory and long history in a white shirt. What was even more impressive was the nature of the goal which awed everyone from the crowd in the Mestalla, to millions of fans watching all over the world.
It was a darting 50-metre sprint along the left touchline after he beat Barca defender Marc Batra, who was unable to catch up with the Welshman even after pushing him to the sidelines. Bale continued his run and toe poked the ball between the legs of goalkeeper Pinto to score the 87th minute winner for Real.
The goal was received with widespread acclaim from pundits and fans alike and was applauded as one of the spectacular Clasico goals ever. The sprint, the strength and sheer determination to outclass his opponent was a demonstration of why he was deservedly the €91million man for Real Madrid.
https://youtu.be/0qS-OFRYP0Q?t=14s
Everyone became familiar with Bale’s talent and abilities when he arrived on the European stage with his destructive performance against Inter Milan in the Champions League. A 21-year-old newcomer in Europe tore apart an experienced Inter Milan defence at the San Siro that night. Since then, Bale stepped into the limelight as one of the future young prospects of the sport. But the admired spectators were left with one particular question in their minds. What is the secret behind Bale’s speed?
When asked by media personnel, Gareth Bale did not hesitate in revealing the answer. Talking to English commentator Martin Tyler he said, “Cross country running.”
Bale, who came up through the ranks of Southampton academy, participated in cross country running from a young age. For those who are not familiar with the term, it is a sport in which teams and individuals run a long distance race on open-air courses over natural terrain. When Bale was 14 or 15, he was running the 100m in 11.4 seconds and 4 minutes 8 seconds for the 1500m which was incredible at his age. It was the main ignition behind Bale’s high propelled performances which we get to see on the pitch day in day out.
With such an athletic stamina and different training approach from his roots, it is obvious that he came out as a different kind of breed in the beautiful game. His goal will be remembered as one of the most unique yet decisive goals that brought Real Madrid a major glory in his debut season itself. Justifying his huge price tag, Bale will surely hope to continue his heroics in the Champions League semi finals against holders Bayern Munich and help them to reach this year’s final in Lisbon.
