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Real Madrid played their first game of their pre-season tour of Australia under new manager Rafael Benitez, and, unfortunately, did not get the winning start they were hoping for. Los Blancos lost to AS Roma 7-6 on penalties, after both teams couldn’t be separated after 90 minutes. The match was played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
The Madrid-based side started the match with a pretty full-strength team, with Martin Odegaard maybe the only surprise selection. Cristiano Ronaldo played his first actual match as a striker for Real, with Jese, Bale and Odegaard supporting him.
Both teams tried their best to open the scoring, but could not. Roma had the better of the chances, as they made Keylor Navas work quite often while Real went close many times, but couldn't actually fashion a major opportunity.
The match went to penalties after normal time was goalless. In the shootout, both teams were very calm and accurate from the spot, as they both converted the first 6 of their attempts. Real's 7th penalty was taken by new signing Lucas Vasquez, who looked very nervous, and saw his shot saved by Morgan De Sanctis. Seydou Keita stepped up for Roma and calmly sent Navas the wrong way.
Watch the highlights here -
