Sporting Gijon 0 vs Real Madrid 0 – Five talking points

Real Madrid have started their La Liga 2015-16 campaign on a disappointing note with 0-0 draw at El Molinon stadium. Blancos were slightly the better side in the match, but were not able to capitalize on the chances they created. Sporting Gijon had their own chances as well, but were dominated throughout the game. Here we take a look at the five hottest talking points from the match between Real Madrid and Sporting Gijon:-

1) James and Carvajal omitted from the starting line-up

To the surprise of many fans, new Real Madrid boss Rafael Benitez opted for Danilo and Jese Rodriguez in place of Dani Carvajal and James Rodriguez respectively. Carvajal has been the first choice right-back since coming into the side in 2013. Though, Danilo has been bought for a hefty fee, Carvajal was fully expected to start ahead of the Brazilian. But the omission of James was more shocking for the Madrid fans, as the Colombian was the standout performer for Blancos last season.

2) Goal, or no goal?

A controversial decision from the officials again ignited the need of goal-line technology. Gijon’s Antonio Sanabria headed the ball towards the Real Madrid goal, but the ball struck the post. It was not clear from the replays whether the ball crossed the line or not. But the officials didn’t give it as a goal, to the agony of Gijon players.

3) Ronaldo Penalty shout

This was another controversial decision from the referee, as Ronaldo was clearly brought down in the penalty area in the first half. The referee waved for play on and ignored the Portuguese superstar’s appeal for a clear penalty.

4) Poor refereeing

The overall refereeing in the match was awfully bad. Madrid were clearly denied three corner kicks during the match. The all whites were also denied a clear Ronaldo penalty. Gijon players were spared by the referee for their fouls too often, as the level of leniency shown by the officials might be one of the most important reasons that cost Real Madrid two important points.

5) Fact-o-meter

• Real Madrid opened up their last two seasons against Real Betis and Cordoba. Both teams wound up being relegated in those same years.
• This is the second time Real Madrid have started a league season against Gijon. They beat them 2-0 at the Bernabeu in 1989/90, coincidentally the same match in which current Sporting coach Abelardo made his La Liga debut.